Mike Tyson vs Mitch Green in a ten round non-title heavyweight bout
Date: May 20, 1986
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York
Tyson stance: orthodox
Green stance: orthodox
Mike Tyson began his pro boxing career with 19 consecutive stoppages, many of them in the first round. He was often boxing twice in the same month, and the sheer momentum of his streak of early knockouts gave him a hige pyschological edge over most of his opponents. In his 20th bout, Tyson faced a rejuvenated James "Quick" Tillis, and won a close points decision. This was the first time Tyson had faced a boxer who had fought for a world title and had fought at an elite level. While he landed his share of very hard punches, they did not have the same effect on Tillis and they had on his previous 19 opponents.
Mitch "Blood" Green was 6'5" and had an 82" reach, so he was very big by 1980s standards. After a decent amateur career, Green turned pro in 1980. Despite drawing his fifth bout to journeyman Robert Evans, Green was making steady progress. He beat fringe contender Floyd Cummings on points in his 12th fight. Green lost a close decision to Trevor Berbick in his 17th bout in 1985. As Berbick was the reigning WBC world champion when Green faced Tyson, this was a very useful way of comparing the merits of both fighters.
For an in depth look at their respective records, visit:
Mike Tyson - https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/474
Mitch Green - https://boxrec.com/en/box-pro/3171
