If there is a tattoo on the face that is recognizable worldwide, it is that of Mike Tyson. The former boxer and media figure has one of his most famous characteristics in that brand, although it is not the only ink that adorns his body.
This Saturday, the former world champion gets into the ring again to face Jake Paulrapper, youtuber and now a boxer project who has the chance to face ‘Iron Mike’.
It is one of the events of the year, a fight that has attracted great media attention and will serve to see if, at 58 years old, Tyson is still the animal he was in his best days.
But, let’s return to its aesthetics. Have you ever wondered how many tattoos the boxer has on his body? The truth is that, taking into account the singularity of his face, there aren’t that many either if we compare it with some footballers.
Tyson’s tattoos
Mike Tyson’s most iconic tattoo is the tribal design on the left side of his face. This tattoo, done in 2003, is a Maori-inspired work that represents strength and warrior spirit. Originally, Tyson was thinking about getting hearts tattooed on his face, but his tattoo artist suggested the tribal design, which he ultimately accepted. Since then, this tattoo has become one of his most distinctive features and symbolizes power and indomitable character that he has always shown in his career.
Mao Zedong
Tyson also has a tattoo on his right arm of the face of Mao Zedong, the leader of the People’s Republic of China. This tattoo reflects his fascination with historical and power figures, as Tyson has always been a avid reader of historical and philosophical topics. For him, Mao represents a figure of leadership and authority.
Che Guevara
Another of Tyson’s prominent tattoos is the portrait of Ernesto ‘Che’ Guevara on his abdomen. This tattoo symbolizes Tyson’s admiration for Che’s revolutionary and defiant spirit. For Tyson, Guevara is an inspiring figurewith which he feels identified for his bravery and his fight for his ideals.
His ex-wife, Monica Turner
Tyson also has a tattoo dedicated to his ex-wife Monica Turner on his left forearm. This tattoo is a reminder of a significant stage in his personal life, although after their separation in 2002, the tattoo has taken on a more nostalgic tone.
A dragon on the forearm
Tyson sports a dragon tattoo on his right forearm. The dragon symbolizes protection, strength and luckaspects that Tyson has sought in his personal and professional life.
On his left shoulder he sports a tattoo of the legendary American tennis player. Arthur Ashewho achieved three Grand Slam titles in the 60s and 70s and was a symbol against racism. ‘Days of Grace’ can be read next to the face of the athlete immortalized on Tyson’s skin.
As far as is known, the last visible tattoo that Tyson has worn is his daughter’s face, Milanborn in 2008 and whose face her father carries next to his heart.
