Mike Tyson Recounts Childhood Fights, Juvie Stays and Tiger Ownership

Boxing icon Mike Tyson recently appeared on "Jesse Watters Primetime" to discuss his eventful life, touching on his childhood in Brooklyn, his experiences in juvenile detention, and the demanding reality of owning exotic animals like tigers.

Tyson described how his early propensity for fighting, even against larger peers, led him to become the "punch guy" for his neighborhood friends. This role involved him engaging in fights while his associates would take valuables from the individuals he fought. These activities ultimately led to him being placed in juvenile detention.

Reflecting on his time in juvie, Tyson offered a humorous perspective, recalling that his primary takeaway was the availability of good food. He recounted an instance at age 12 where he was given two cookies, milk, and two cigarettes upon arrival. Instead of smoking the cigarettes, he traded them for more cookies.

The conversation also delved into Tyson's experience with exotic cats, particularly his pet tigers. He emphasized the significant responsibility involved, stating that building a bond with a tiger required daily interaction for two years without fail. Transporting these large animals presented further challenges, with Tyson detailing the necessity of using an 18-wheel van to move his tiger across the country, for example, from Las Vegas to New York.