I have had the pleasure of meeting Michael Spinks and his brother Leon on several occasions. They both are class acts and fan friendly fighters. May Leon RIP.
Yeah! My dad always tells this story when he went as a navy officer from Sweden to US in the early 80s and met Leon at the airport. He was indeed a fan friendly man. My dad offered him some swedish "Snus" and he almost took all of it with his huge hand and put it under his lip. Leon just put on that huge smile and said thanks!
Spinks was a much better boxer than holyfield. He didn't have the muscle. He didn't have the moves but some how he was much better at the skills of the sweet science . Technically. Holyfield does not compare.
One of the greats? As a Heavyweight he ain't even in the top 250. As a light Heavyweight sure he was good. But he got dumb like Michael Moorer and jumped from being a world beater at light Heavyweight to being good at Heavyweight but not great.
Michael Spinks is one of the most underappreciated greats of all time. He seems to mostly get remembered for getting sparked cheaply by Tyson, not for being arguably the greatest light heavyweight of all time who jumped up two divisions to beat one of the greatest heavyweight champions of all time.
One of my favourite fighters! Michael was always a class act! He should not be remembered for only the Tyson fight! His accomplishments are phenomenal! He’s the first light heavyweight to become heavyweight champion!
I think Michael lost that fight with Tyson before he fought, a psychological matter Same with Bruce Sheldon because I've seen his other fights and he was very proficient in my opinion wasn't scared at all Fear was Mike Tysons superpower
We remember you fondly Micheal! Always punching above your weight and speaking softly and kindly. These guys on here dogging on him probably never fought anybody.
Michael Spinks was a dangerous boxer puncher at 175,he was crafty and awkward. He had some great fights. His wins over Eddie Mustafa Muhammad,and Dwight Muhammad Qawi are a couple of my favorite fights.
Yep. He is an inspiration to any slender and strong person. I knew he would fight Jerry Cooney smart and that's exactly what he did. Anyone touted as having one big weapon was no match for Michael. Won $20 on it. @@c.antoniojohnson7114
Michael Spinks is one of my all-time favorite fighters and people in the sport of boxing. He represented our birthplace of St.Louis with the utmost class and is a crown jewel of that talent rich city.
I agree on the cashout. He was just terrified of mike when he heard that Butch Lewis saw Mike punching holes in the wall when Butch went in tyson's dressing room before the fight. Holmes got screwed in both Spinks fights. Its obvious the Boxing powers were setting up a big grossing Tyson Spinks fight.
This man was the greatest Light Heavy of all time. He stepped in the RING with Mike gained weight in a semi POUND for POUND bout, it dont matter if he was scared or not, he still took the knockout from Tyson and did it like a man!
@@Ballinbmacwould you be scared if Mike Tyson is in the next room to you warming up punching holes in the wall. Frank Bruno along with numerous other where scared of tyson too. Tyson beat a lot of opponents before they even made the walk to the ring.
I can you are not a boxer. There are a lot of emotions you feel going into a fight . If a boxer told you he had no fear of nothing then He has serious mental issues or is a complete liar . Fear is completely normal going into a fight. I don’t know why you mentioned him being scared.. ask mike if he was scared going into a fight and you will tell you yes . People deal with there emotions different ways
Michael Sphinx vs Evander Holyfield at light Heavyweight or Cruiserweight would have been a GREAT fight. Sphinx deserves to be remembered for a LOT more than being banged out by Iron Mike in 91 seconds. He was much much better than what that fight showed. A class act.
Michael "Jinx" Spinks's legacy is well and truly secured as he is one of the greatest light heavyweight world champions of all times! Spinks has alwas stayed humble and always had great dignity and despite his former fame & forune it never went over his head. Spinks won an Olympic gold medal, became Undisputed Light Heavyweight World Champion with an mighty 11-0-0, KO's 8 championship record and was a World Geavyweight Champion (Lineal/IBF) with a 4-1-0 record. Spinks was the very first Light Heavyweight World Champion to then become a Heavyweight World Champion, a feat very few man afterwards have managed to accomplish. Why Spinks lost to Tyson could be argued from a lot of various angles, but the most strong arguments will always fall on; 1. Having great fear of his opponent, 2. Fighting greatly scared and 3. Not having his heart with him that night. Tyson was a strong beast and KO power in both his handsm but Spinks had a very akward style that became better as a fight went on and Spinks had always been good at avoiding getting hit hard and dodge his opponents attacks, so if Spinks had had all gears working mentally, he could possibly have made a bigger impact.
He may have been scared but I think even if he hadn't been he was badly overmatched. Tyson was stronger, hit lots harder and was lot's faster to boot. He likely could have gone in that ring with all the confidence in the world and been destroyed anyway.
@@emirramos990 Very possible. Still Spinks was a most akward boxer to box against and considering how he handeled Dwight Qawi, a Tyson-like boxer I still believe Spinks could have done much better if not....
He was bloody terrified against Tyson and went down quicker than a hooker on London Bridge ffs. He was a total jokyand a bottle job. He cheated every person that bought a bloody ticket.
Please, he lost cos Mike Tyson was scary af in his prime!! Plus he was still mourning & grieving over Cus dying. So to honor what Cus did for him, Mike effed up everyone in front of him to become Undisputed HW Champ! Eventually including himself AND he came back from all of that too. Going from self destruction to rejuvenation? Spinks, you were in there with a rare force of nature molded by God. Respect for lasting the 91 seconds that you did.
Every other opponent at least tried, spinks just froze like a deer in headlights, the most disgraceful defence of a title I've ever seen... yes his light heavyweight career is outstanding but I'm sorry he is a disgrace to the heavyweights...
“Emanuel Steward had flown to Atlantic City to see the fight and went to check on Michael (Spinks). I went into his dressing room; they couldn’t even get him to come out, he was so scared. He was a nervous wreck, really freaking out. Michael didn’t have the personality to come out. “Not until 11:20 did Michael finally make his way to the ring, snaking through a celebrity-studded audience that included Norman Mailer, Jack Nicholson, Warren Beatty, Sean Penn, Madonna, and, of course, Donald Trump. The fighter gave a hesitant wave to the crowd, acknowledging his family and friends. He entered the ring in a gleaming white robe as Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald sang “This Is It” through the PA speakers. Sweat glistened on his cheeks and forehead. He had the look of a rabbit that had just spotted a hunter’s rifle.” EXCERPT FROM “ONE PUNCH FROM THE PROMISED LAND” ON MICHAEL SPINKS NOT WANTING TO FACE MIKE TYSON
Michael Spinks is a model for coming out of the sport in better condition then when he went into it! Congratulations to You Michael Spinks for finding your way through and gathering the pieces of armor that has established and preserved the character that makes for continued success after boxing
Mike Tyson was at his absolute most dangerous when he fought Michael Spinks, and Mike came with an unusual tactic for heavyweights of the era, to go at full speed and power right from the start which caught many hugely talented boxers off guard. Of course, Mike also had insane power and movement, but anyone who fought him at that time and survived like Michael can consider themselves a champion and a hero. One of Mike's punches would probably have killed me, if not, it would have disabled me for life,. Michael Spinks, you have the highest respect from me Sir.
Are you serious???? He laid down like a dog ffs! He got his pay check and fell immediately ! Tony Tucker went 12 rounds with Tyson and he was a limited fighter!
@@stuartphillips822 I respect him for getting in the ring with Tyson. It's more than you or I have ever done,. One good punch from Tyson would break my jaw to pieces and I imagine yours too.
Michael Spinks is not only one of the greatest boxers at ANY weight of all time, in my opinion he is one of the top three greatest light heavyweights of all time right behind Ezzard Charles and Archie Moore. A truly extraordinary achiever who happens to also be an exemplary gentleman, professional, and human being.
He’s also a bullshitter with poor character. Rather than speak the truth about his loss to Tyson, he conjured up several poorly thought out excuses. The man was completely overmatched and terrified in there.
Cause he was scared to death of Tyson, when Holyfield was interviewed after beating Tyson and said Tyson is a bully, most fighters are scared of him. I had spared him years ago and I’m not afraid of him.
His second wind in fights and the amazing punching combinations, when he poured it on out of nowhere , are what I remember. His style made him trouble to fight against.......loved him!
Michael Spinks is a great champion. I will never hold him loosing against Mike Tyson a failure. It was his only lost and anybody who got in the ring with Iron Mike in that era I take my hat off to.
Michael seems like a really nice guy - looking at this it's difficult to imagine it's the same guy who was so vicious in the boxing ring. One of the great fighters, who, unfortunately, ran into another great at his peak (when Michael wasn't), Mike Tyson. Of course, he beat another all-time great in Larry Holmes, twice, a few years before; that should be enough to seal his legacy alone. Very enjoyable - thanks for uploading.
During the deepest era in light heavyweight history Gold Medalist Undisputed Undefeated HOF ATG GOAT Michael Spinks beat Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, and knocked out Yaqui Lopes and Marvin Johnson. Which was not easy to do in their primes. Michael also beat Heavyweight champion Larry Holmes to win the title, who was also undefeated. Michael Spinks is the most accomplished light heavyweight in history.
Michael Spinks: A class act all the way. He lifted up his brother Leon appropriately because he answered the questions honestly. I could tell he saw Leon through the eyes of someone who wasn't just enamored with an older brother, but because they had been through a lot together and Leon EARNED his favor. Hemos very well spoken and honest. And he had the look of true kindness and appreciation in his eyes. A friendliness that is actually quite rare. I'm glad I watched this interview. Oh! And excellent interviewer who asked good questions and let the man speak his peace. Peace and blessings to the Spinks family.🙏
Sad that Mike Spinks gave Butch Lewis control of his money.After Butch untimely death Mike Spinks sued Butch Lewis estate to try to recover his money. Not sure how that turned out.
Michael Spinks is such a gentleman!!! A fine role model for young men who desire to achieve big dreams. He is so articulate, respectful, & humble! He is the best. I love ❤ Michael Spinks.
Love Michael Spinx, class act its nice to see him so well, what a journey he's had. Coming up in the mean streets of st. Louis, born into poverty, im pretty sure he won an Olympic hold medal, light heavyweight and heavyweight championships and sfter all that, he's very humble, articulate and a very polished speaker
First time I have seen a longer interview of this man. What a gentleman!!! His character is as good as it gets! Boxing is not the same as it used to be at all in many ways,' they' were warriors. Now its mostly cat fights outside of the ring on social media, borrring! Also, very respectful interviewer too 🙂
I didn't even agree with the Larry Holmes decision but he was terrified of Mike Tyson, he doesn't need to give any excuses. He was afraid before he got in that ring
I felt he should have gave Tyson and fighters from this era more respect. I have only just realised that this interview was probably done in the 90's - I thought he looked young for his age? I'm sorry scheduling or no scheduling tyson destroyed him in one of the most close to perfect heavyweight performances of all time. That was the fight that cemented Mikes legacy. It should never had been so one sided but it was...
What a class act is Michael Spinks. He saved his money, from what I have read. He hasn't had to work a day since 1988 if he didn't want to. Good for him. It is obvious he loved his brother Leon. Just a great guy. And a great boxer.
Reasons why he lost? 1. He was terrified as you could clearly see that in his face when the camera was on him during Tyson's ring walk. 2. Butch Lewis, the manager & promoter of Spinks witnessed Tyson punching holes in the dressing room wall when he went there to witness him getting his hands wrapped. 3. Butch Lewis probably told Spinks what he witnessed Tyson doing to that dressing room wall. 4. He didn't have a plan when the fight started, hardly laid a glove on Tyson & got knocked the fk out.
I met Mike Spinks in New Jersey and he was a very cool guy. His loss to Tyson wasn’t a shock given the fact that he was the natural smaller man on top of facing one of boxing’s most powerful fighters in history in Tyson.
And heavyweight. Before he fought Tyson, he moved up to heavyweight and beat undefeated Larry Holmes for the belt. And then beating him again in a rematch.
Watching the fight so many times, you have to realize two things: (1) It was clear that Spinks was super nervous... He was bone dry when they took his robe off. (2) He did try to fight, but Tyson had the best 93 seconds of aggressive counterpunching I've ever seen - in 93 seconds, Spinks threw NINE hard right hands... and landed NONE.
Michael Spinks was shitting himself before the fight and only turned up for the paycheque. If I remember correctly he lasted 91 seconds against, and Tyson would still batter him in 91 seconds.
Michael speaks descriptively. He describes Leon as brilliant. I believe him too. That is uncommon because Leon portrayed himself not so intelligent. Nonetheless, both brothers winning Gold for America - at Boxiana, is amazing.
Yes I think you're right. He wasn't really committed to fighting Tyson and I don't blame him. But imagine spending hundreds of even thousands of dollars to watch that fight. You'd have been p*ssed off
@@davidhoban3825 The only good thing about a Spinks vs Holyfield fight is that it would be a technical fight. Neither were known for destroying their opponents or straight up brawling. Both are similar in personalities, being a gentleman, and not getting recognition as a true heavyweight. A big difference between Spinks and Holyfield is mental toughness and very few fighters can match Holyfield in this area. Holyfield is fearless. He didn't duck anyone, didn't make any excuses, and in his peak, his physique and conditioning was second to none. Holyfield was a warrior, had an amazing chin, and though he didn't have any signature KO punch that Tyson, Foreman, others had, he made up for it with sudden burst of rapid combinations and persistence over rounds.
He was only a lightheavyweight who I knew had Larry Holmes' number. I knew that fight would be upset. But a lightheavyweight is not an individual to handle Mike Tyson. You have to be heavyweight like Foreman. Joe Frazier would have destroyed Michael Sphinx in the same fashion. Holmes never fought Frazier.
Respect to Michael Spinks holding his brother Neon Leon (RIP) in such high regard. What a wonderful human being.
Leon Spink.
@@DCP-200😴😴😴😴
@@DCP-200 At least he was a gentleman unlike Iron Mike
@@savemyself9445 Spinks !
@@DCP-200; how many fights you had...??
I have had the pleasure of meeting Michael Spinks and his brother Leon on several occasions. They both are class acts and fan friendly fighters. May Leon RIP.
Cool. Mike was one of the all time best Lt. Heavyweights.
Yeah! My dad always tells this story when he went as a navy officer from Sweden to US in the early 80s and met Leon at the airport. He was indeed a fan friendly man. My dad offered him some swedish "Snus" and he almost took all of it with his huge hand and put it under his lip. Leon just put on that huge smile and said thanks!
Michael Spinks is so intelligent, well spoken, thoughtful, and honest.
It is a breath of fresh air to hear him talk about boxing, and life in general.
You sound like a closet racist trying to go out of his way to not sound racist. If he was a white man, you would never write such a post.
With all respect I beg to differ the former not latter.
Must've been a good fighter.... he can still put a sentence together !!!
Big difference from the thugs today.
Spinks was a much better boxer than holyfield. He didn't have the muscle. He didn't have the moves but some how he was much better at the skills of the sweet science . Technically. Holyfield does not compare.
What a great, humble man. We could use more like him in this world.
I agree that he's a great man. But he called himself the best fighter in boxing, so he's not THAT humble lol.
@@TheGodYouWishYouKnew Yeah, but you got to think that to fight at that level.
@@mikeholman4284 You’re right. I was just teasing.
Michael Spinks handles himself like a gentleman, with self-confidence, but not cockiness. I've always admired how he was able to walk that line.
He said he thought he was the best 😂
@Helios601 and he was for a while
What a nice Gentleman,,,
Until you piZZ him off..
Ahahah
No wonder this man is one of the greats. He has lived this sport and understands what it takes to be in it. Props to the champ
One of the best Lt. Heavyweights of all time. I use to watch all his fights.
Such a shame the champs of today do not have the same respect?,well,they don’t defend regular,good comment pal…
He was a great Light heavy weight. Not nearly as good as good when he turned HW
One of the greats? As a Heavyweight he ain't even in the top 250. As a light Heavyweight sure he was good. But he got dumb like Michael Moorer and jumped from being a world beater at light Heavyweight to being good at Heavyweight but not great.
@@robhamilton4736 ok Sheba 👍….
Humble guy, and his brother was an outstanding fighter, RIP..
Michael Spinks is one of the most underappreciated greats of all time.
He seems to mostly get remembered for getting sparked cheaply by Tyson, not for being arguably the greatest light heavyweight of all time who jumped up two divisions to beat one of the greatest heavyweight champions of all time.
Explain to me how Tyson won cheaply? Did you even watch that fight or you just wanna pull shits from your head?
He never beat Larry Holmes, the crooked judges did.
@keenakaur6314 so he'll not equal Rocky Marciano's record
@@keenakaur6314he really beat Holmes in the rematch but in the first fight Holmes was robbed in that decision!🥊😵🥊
Love Spinks, but you’re right. Larry was robbed twice
Wow!!! Michael Spinks is 67!!
He doesnt look any different to when he was boxing. Incredible
This aint a recent interview, i just saw one with him and trust me he looks 67 and sounds alot less sharp now.
It must've been the 90's because interviewer asked him if Mike Tyson could be the world champ again (which threw me ha ha)
This is from around 1995-2000
This is from 2000, the reporter asks him who will win Lewis or Tua, which was in november 11 2000.
This interview is 1995
Such a humble man who genuinely adores his brother. Than you for such a great video.
Mike Spinks was always a talented boxer and a classy person. He and his brother won their gold medals on my wedding day. I always pulled for him.
The Spinks brothers were both class lads. Great respect from Ireland ☘️
One of my favourite fighters! Michael was always a class act! He should not be remembered for only the Tyson fight! His accomplishments are phenomenal! He’s the first light heavyweight to become heavyweight champion!
I think Michael lost that fight with Tyson before he fought, a psychological matter
Same with Bruce Sheldon because I've seen his other fights and he was very proficient in my opinion wasn't scared at all
Fear was Mike Tysons superpower
I never heard Michael interviewed before. He seems like a really good man with a good head on his shoulders.
Michael was a very good fighter. More importantly, he's a very good Human Being.
We remember you fondly Micheal! Always punching above your weight and speaking softly and kindly. These guys on here dogging on him probably never fought anybody.
Or seen his fights. He was crafty for sure
Top notch assertion 🤝
Michael Spinks was a dangerous boxer puncher at 175,he was crafty and awkward. He had some great fights. His wins over Eddie Mustafa Muhammad,and Dwight Muhammad Qawi are a couple of my favorite fights.
Yep. He is an inspiration to any slender and strong person. I knew he would fight Jerry Cooney smart and that's exactly what he did. Anyone touted as having one big weapon was no match for Michael. Won $20 on it. @@c.antoniojohnson7114
Michael Spinks is one of my all-time favorite fighters and people in the sport of boxing. He represented our birthplace of St.Louis with the utmost class and is a crown jewel of that talent rich city.
Seems like a classy guy❤
One of the greatest light heavyweights of all time! God bless him and his brother leon may he rest in peace!
Pure class, Michael Spinks was my favorite from that 1976 Olympic Boxing Team. Great fighter and a true gentleman!
The Tyson fight was a cashout. Spinks knees were wrecked and he couldn't even do roadwork anymore.
I agree on the cashout. He was just terrified of mike when he heard that Butch Lewis saw Mike punching holes in the wall when Butch went in tyson's dressing room before the fight. Holmes got screwed in both Spinks fights. Its obvious the Boxing powers were setting up a big grossing Tyson Spinks fight.
@@abcall-timesboxingchanneln7076Totally agree!
That doesn't make any sense, Holmes was much bigger draw than Spinks. And Spinks beat Holmes well in the first fight.@@abcall-timesboxingchanneln7076
This man was the greatest Light Heavy of all time. He stepped in the RING with Mike gained weight in a semi POUND for POUND bout, it dont matter if he was scared or not, he still took the knockout from Tyson and did it like a man!
So he was scared like a man is all you just said
@@Ballinbmacwould you be scared if Mike Tyson is in the next room to you warming up punching holes in the wall. Frank Bruno along with numerous other where scared of tyson too. Tyson beat a lot of opponents before they even made the walk to the ring.
@roblet5047 dude all these haters talking shish, your average None boxer would shish there pants to fight Sphinx!
I can you are not a boxer. There are a lot of emotions you feel going into a fight . If a boxer told you he had no fear of nothing then He has serious mental issues or is a complete liar . Fear is completely normal going into a fight. I don’t know why you mentioned him being scared.. ask mike if he was scared going into a fight and you will tell you yes . People deal with there emotions different ways
@richardmoscovitch3328 you don't know me i used to box in my day, went to the boxing gym for two years cyc in concord California buddy.
Sounds like a really nice guy. If the networks ever start televising the fights again he would be a great ringside announcer.
Very good fighter ,one of the all time great light-heavyweights, can’t be judged on the Tyson fight his legacy was secured long before that fight
What a classy guy. He and Leon have to be regarded as one of the greatest boxing brothers of all time.
Michael Sphinx vs Evander Holyfield at light Heavyweight or Cruiserweight would have been a GREAT fight. Sphinx deserves to be remembered for a LOT more than being banged out by Iron Mike in 91 seconds. He was much much better than what that fight showed. A class act.
Michael "Jinx" Spinks's legacy is well and truly secured as he is one of the greatest light heavyweight world champions of all times!
Spinks has alwas stayed humble and always had great dignity and despite his former fame & forune it never went over his head.
Spinks won an Olympic gold medal, became Undisputed Light Heavyweight World Champion with an mighty 11-0-0, KO's 8 championship record and was a World Geavyweight Champion (Lineal/IBF) with a 4-1-0 record.
Spinks was the very first Light Heavyweight World Champion to then become a Heavyweight World Champion, a feat very few man afterwards have managed to accomplish.
Why Spinks lost to Tyson could be argued from a lot of various angles, but the most strong arguments will always fall on;
1. Having great fear of his opponent, 2. Fighting greatly scared and 3. Not having his heart with him that night.
Tyson was a strong beast and KO power in both his handsm but Spinks had a very akward style that became better as a fight went on and Spinks had always been good at avoiding getting hit hard and dodge his opponents attacks, so if Spinks had had all gears working mentally, he could possibly have made a bigger impact.
He may have been scared but I think even if he hadn't been he was badly overmatched. Tyson was stronger, hit lots harder and was lot's faster to boot. He likely could have gone in that ring with all the confidence in the world and been destroyed anyway.
@@emirramos990 Very possible. Still Spinks was a most akward boxer to box against and considering how he handeled Dwight Qawi, a Tyson-like boxer I still believe Spinks could have done much better if not....
@@emirramos990 I watched that fight and I would have to say you are right about that.
He was bloody terrified against Tyson and went down quicker than a hooker on London Bridge ffs. He was a total jokyand a bottle job. He cheated every person that bought a bloody ticket.
Amazing man ,all respect from England 🤝👊🏴
Total respect for Mr. Spinks. Always clean and straight up. God bless him
Please, he lost cos Mike Tyson was scary af in his prime!! Plus he was still mourning & grieving over Cus dying. So to honor what Cus did for him, Mike effed up everyone in front of him to become Undisputed HW Champ! Eventually including himself AND he came back from all of that too. Going from self destruction to rejuvenation? Spinks, you were in there with a rare force of nature molded by God. Respect for lasting the 91 seconds that you did.
Every other opponent at least tried, spinks just froze like a deer in headlights, the most disgraceful defence of a title I've ever seen... yes his light heavyweight career is outstanding but I'm sorry he is a disgrace to the heavyweights...
“Emanuel Steward had flown to Atlantic City to see the fight and went to check on Michael (Spinks). I went into his dressing room; they couldn’t even get him to come out, he was so scared. He was a nervous wreck, really freaking out. Michael didn’t have the personality to come out.
“Not until 11:20 did Michael finally make his way to the ring, snaking through a celebrity-studded audience that included Norman Mailer, Jack Nicholson, Warren Beatty, Sean Penn, Madonna, and, of course, Donald Trump. The fighter gave a hesitant wave to the crowd, acknowledging his family and friends. He entered the ring in a gleaming white robe as Kenny Loggins and Michael McDonald sang “This Is It” through the PA speakers. Sweat glistened on his cheeks and forehead. He had the look of a rabbit that had just spotted a hunter’s rifle.”
EXCERPT FROM “ONE PUNCH FROM THE PROMISED LAND” ON MICHAEL SPINKS NOT WANTING TO FACE MIKE TYSON
Love this guy! Great achievements in the toughest possible sport. Great guy and a great champion! Nuff respect champ! 🥊
Michael Spinks is a high class man. Humble, kind and well spoken.
Michael Spinks is a model for coming out of the sport in better condition then when he went into it! Congratulations to You Michael Spinks for finding your way through and gathering the pieces of armor that has established and preserved the character that makes for continued success after boxing
Mike Tyson was at his absolute most dangerous when he fought Michael Spinks, and Mike came with an unusual tactic for heavyweights of the era, to go at full speed and power right from the start which caught many hugely talented boxers off guard. Of course, Mike also had insane power and movement, but anyone who fought him at that time and survived like Michael can consider themselves a champion and a hero. One of Mike's punches would probably have killed me, if not, it would have disabled me for life,. Michael Spinks, you have the highest respect from me Sir.
He always lost to talented fighters 👎👎
@@jahno7154lmao another anti Mike troll
Are you serious???? He laid down like a dog ffs! He got his pay check and fell immediately ! Tony Tucker went 12 rounds with Tyson and he was a limited fighter!
@@stuartphillips822 I respect him for getting in the ring with Tyson. It's more than you or I have ever done,. One good punch from Tyson would break my jaw to pieces and I imagine yours too.
He was light heavyweight/cruiserweight not a legitimate heavyweight.
Getting knocked out by Tyson at his best no shame.Seens a good guy.
Michael Spinks is not only one of the greatest boxers at ANY weight of all time, in my opinion he is one of the top three greatest light heavyweights of all time right behind Ezzard Charles and Archie Moore. A truly extraordinary achiever who happens to also be an exemplary gentleman, professional, and human being.
seems like a really nice guy, respect -great fighter in his day aswell
The Michael Spinks legacy is well and truly secured as he is arguably the greatest light heavyweight of all time.
Absolutely agree. Incredible fighter. His time at heavyweight is extremely impressive as well.
He’s also a bullshitter with poor character. Rather than speak the truth about his loss to Tyson, he conjured up several poorly thought out excuses. The man was completely overmatched and terrified in there.
I would say...the best light heavy ever.
@Nocensorship5000 he was
Your right. But at light heavy....he was the best.
@@mattlenton7376 bold statement... ...its tough. Ezzard charles, Archie Moore, Sam Langford,
Gene Tunney all could be in the equation..
Man, this dude is simply put "A class act" u r an incredible person Mr. Spinks.
Michael is one of my all time favorite fighters
Very skilled and a classy man
Michael Spinks, A Great Champion and a Great Man 🙏👍🙏👍
Ps, Much Respect to His Brother
Leon Spinks R.I.P. 🙏🌹
Glad he didn't claim it was because he wore a 40lb mask.
😅
Which reminds me of Wilder.
Great interview. Super respectful and did not push any agendas or dig for sensational soundbites.
This guy is one of the greatest in boxing. Very nice personality too
Cause he was scared to death of Tyson, when Holyfield was interviewed after beating Tyson and said Tyson is a bully, most fighters are scared of him. I had spared him years ago and I’m not afraid of him.
His second wind in fights and the amazing punching combinations, when he poured it on out of nowhere , are what I remember. His style made him trouble to fight against.......loved him!
He has great voice and doesn't appear to have brain damage. He was a good fighter.
He didn’t take a lot of bad shots thoughout his career
Very fortunate.
This was recorded in the 90s.
@@jml-rj5re😂
He lost because Mike Tyson was an unstoppable force in his prime, "the baddest man on the planet" and Spinks was terrified lol.
He was so unstoppable buster knocked him out
I remember when he fought Tyson that day. The terrified look on his face said everything I needed to know.
Wisdom from a brother that lived through the storm respect 🙏
Rest in peace Leon.
Michael Spinks is a great champion. I will never hold him loosing against Mike Tyson a failure. It was his only lost and anybody who got in the ring with Iron Mike in that era I take my hat off to.
Michael Spinks was a decent fighter. He wasnt great. Mike Tyson straight out destroyed him.
Michael seems like a really nice guy - looking at this it's difficult to imagine it's the same guy who was so vicious in the boxing ring. One of the great fighters, who, unfortunately, ran into another great at his peak (when Michael wasn't), Mike Tyson. Of course, he beat another all-time great in Larry Holmes, twice, a few years before; that should be enough to seal his legacy alone. Very enjoyable - thanks for uploading.
Great interview...From the early 2000s...
During the deepest era in light heavyweight history Gold Medalist Undisputed Undefeated HOF ATG GOAT Michael Spinks beat Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, and knocked out Yaqui Lopes and Marvin Johnson. Which was not easy to do in their primes. Michael also beat Heavyweight champion Larry Holmes to win the title, who was also undefeated. Michael Spinks is the most accomplished light heavyweight in history.
he was gifted the Holmes Bout
the rest i agree
@@Adam-ql1xe Maybe gifted one of them, but not both.
@@Adam-ql1xefirst ome he won, second one was close. I think it's slightly exaggerated how much of a robbery it really was
Larry was way past his prime. Spinks was embarrassing the way he laid down against Tyson, everyone knows that ffs.
He obliterated Gerry Cooney with ease.
Great person and fighter!
Wow, Spinks is more thoughtful and well spoken than I imagined
Michael Spinks: A class act all the way. He lifted up his brother Leon appropriately because he answered the questions honestly. I could tell he saw Leon through the eyes of someone who wasn't just enamored with an older brother, but because they had been through a lot together and Leon EARNED his favor. Hemos very well spoken and honest. And he had the look of true kindness and appreciation in his eyes. A friendliness that is actually quite rare. I'm glad I watched this interview. Oh! And excellent interviewer who asked good questions and let the man speak his peace. Peace and blessings to the Spinks family.🙏
He's articulate, humble and a great role model. Never got his due.
I enjoyed Michael when he boxed. He was one of my favorite boxers in his era. He is very well spoken.
The single greatest Light Heavy weight of all time! Not to mention bright,humble and a cool person.
Much love and respect for this man
What was your greatest moment as a fighter?" My greatest moment as a boxer was....". Total class from Michael.
Great champion . One of the best to step into the ring.
This interview got to be at least 20 years old for Michael Spinks to look this good. The Man got to be pushing 70.😮
He looks the same just older. I seen him 2 years often in Delaware
Sad that Mike Spinks gave Butch Lewis control of his money.After Butch untimely death Mike Spinks sued Butch Lewis estate to try to recover his money. Not sure how that turned out.
Michael Spinks is such a gentleman!!! A fine role model for young men who desire to achieve big dreams. He is so articulate, respectful, & humble! He is the best. I love ❤ Michael Spinks.
Simple explanation. Spinks was overpowered by Tyson. But that doesn't diminish his courage one bit.
Dude won a GOLD MEDAL 🏅
AND hw champion!!!!
Love Michael Spinx, class act its nice to see him so well, what a journey he's had. Coming up in the mean streets of st. Louis, born into poverty, im pretty sure he won an Olympic hold medal, light heavyweight and heavyweight championships and sfter all that, he's very humble, articulate and a very polished speaker
First time I have seen a longer interview of this man.
What a gentleman!!! His character is as good as it gets!
Boxing is not the same as it used to be at all in many ways,' they' were warriors.
Now its mostly cat fights outside of the ring on social media, borrring!
Also, very respectful interviewer too 🙂
I didn't even agree with the Larry Holmes decision but he was terrified of Mike Tyson, he doesn't need to give any excuses. He was afraid before he got in that ring
Michael spinks was a true badass. He always came to fight.
Thanks for the video, KOTV BOXING
I felt he should have gave Tyson and fighters from this era more respect. I have only just realised that this interview was probably done in the 90's - I thought he looked young for his age? I'm sorry scheduling or no scheduling tyson destroyed him in one of the most close to perfect heavyweight performances of all time. That was the fight that cemented Mikes legacy. It should never had been so one sided but it was...
He was damn good and it is a shame that one fight a loss to Tyson ruined his spectacular career. He did not beat Larry Holmes in their second fight.
Great human being he is Micheal ,hearing him talk about his brother also his humility I think makes him even greater.
What a class act is Michael Spinks.
He saved his money, from what I have read.
He hasn't had to work a day since 1988 if he didn't want to.
Good for him.
It is obvious he loved his brother Leon.
Just a great guy. And a great boxer.
Class act in and out of the ring
Reasons why he lost? 1. He was terrified as you could clearly see that in his face when the camera was on him during Tyson's ring walk. 2. Butch Lewis, the manager & promoter of Spinks witnessed Tyson punching holes in the dressing room wall when he went there to witness him getting his hands wrapped. 3. Butch Lewis probably told Spinks what he witnessed Tyson doing to that dressing room wall. 4. He didn't have a plan when the fight started, hardly laid a glove on Tyson & got knocked the fk out.
Spinks would've won if Tyson didn't use PEDs.
Big Up Michael Spinks! Good interview and the way he answered these questions and uplift his brother.
I remember a older Caucasian male customer of mines speaking about Leon Spinks, on how he was one the sweetest people you could meet .
WOW!!!!!!! WHAT A GENTLEMAN!!!!!!
Pure humble.
Humble did you watch the interview
Such a tremendous fighter and after listening to him, what a humble man. Pure class...
Michael Spinks, ones of the best Light-heavyweights ever. Peace.
Him and Holyfield would have been a great fight at 190 lbs . 👏🏾 Cruiserweight
shit holyfield was 190 at one point? crazy
I met Mike Spinks in New Jersey and he was a very cool guy. His loss to Tyson wasn’t a shock given the fact that he was the natural smaller man on top of facing one of boxing’s most powerful fighters in history in Tyson.
I’m shocked,what a nice humble guy,nice to hear him speak so highly of his late brother,neon Leon r.I.p🕊
Never seen or heard Micheal Spinks say anything but after seeing and listening to him now. TOTAL RESPECT ❤
Great light heavyweight
And heavyweight. Before he fought Tyson, he moved up to heavyweight and beat undefeated Larry Holmes for the belt. And then beating him again in a rematch.
Watching the fight so many times, you have to realize two things:
(1) It was clear that Spinks was super nervous... He was bone dry when they took his robe off.
(2) He did try to fight, but Tyson had the best 93 seconds of aggressive counterpunching I've ever seen - in 93 seconds, Spinks threw NINE hard right hands... and landed NONE.
Great interview Jeff. I had the pleasure to meet both of these great champions.
What an unbelievable class act. And one of the top-5 LHWs of all time
Michael Spinks was shitting himself before the fight and only turned up for the paycheque. If I remember correctly he lasted 91 seconds against, and Tyson would still batter him in 91 seconds.
Mike vs Bob foster would have been interesting .
@chimneydriptray2439 How about Tyson vs Ernie Shavers? I'm going with Tyson, but would of loved to have seen that fight
J J. That would have been a very interesting fight? George Forman against Tyson would have been a belter. Lol@@j.jmcquade5278
@@j.jmcquade5278Only one has to land clean on eachother a couple of times
@@j.jmcquade5278 A young George Forman vs Tyson would be another interesting match up….
I had to view this...thank you for posting...a true warrior.
Great man!
He is all heart and very articulate.💪🏾
Michael speaks descriptively. He describes Leon as brilliant. I believe him too. That is uncommon because Leon portrayed himself not so intelligent. Nonetheless, both brothers winning Gold for America - at Boxiana, is amazing.
I always felt he was there for the paycheck and wanted to get out as quick as possible against Tyson.🥊
Yes I think you're right. He wasn't really committed to fighting Tyson and I don't blame him. But imagine spending hundreds of even thousands of dollars to watch that fight. You'd have been p*ssed off
Great interview that thanks for the upload
A true legend . One of my all time favorites
I would've love to see Spinks vs Holyfield!....Personally id pick Spinks by decision.
What a fight that would have been
@@davidhoban3825 The only good thing about a Spinks vs Holyfield fight is that it would be a technical fight. Neither were known for destroying their opponents or straight up brawling. Both are similar in personalities, being a gentleman, and not getting recognition as a true heavyweight. A big difference between Spinks and Holyfield is mental toughness and very few fighters can match Holyfield in this area. Holyfield is fearless. He didn't duck anyone, didn't make any excuses, and in his peak, his physique and conditioning was second to none. Holyfield was a warrior, had an amazing chin, and though he didn't have any signature KO punch that Tyson, Foreman, others had, he made up for it with sudden burst of rapid combinations and persistence over rounds.
He was only a lightheavyweight who I knew had Larry Holmes' number. I knew that fight would be upset. But a lightheavyweight is not an individual to handle Mike Tyson. You have to be heavyweight like Foreman. Joe Frazier would have destroyed Michael Sphinx in the same fashion. Holmes never fought Frazier.
Larry Holmes was Ali"s sparring and Joe Frazier sparring partner he knew Frazier style well.