Why Did Mike Tyson Go to Jail? A Look at the Boxing Legend’s Prison Time

Mike Tyson has made one of the most incredible comebacks, leveraging his fame even after serving time as a convicted felon, including his high-profile Netflix fight with Jake Paul.

Here’s everything you need to know about his legal troubles, how long he was incarcerated, and more.

Did Tyson Go to Jail?

Yes, Tyson did go to jail. He was sentenced to six years in prison and served about three years before being released on parole in March 1995.

Convicted rapist Mike Tyson (C) leaves the Marion County Courthouse in Indianapolis, Indianda in hancuffs with his associate attorney Jim Voyles (R) and officers 13 June 1994 after his sentence reduction hearing in Indianapolis. Judge Patricia Gifford ruled the former champion boxer’s behavior in prison did not justify an early release. (Photo credit should read EUGENE GARCIA/AFP via Getty Images)

In July 1991, Tyson, then 25 years old, was arrested for the assault of 18-year-old Desiree Washington in an Indianapolis hotel room. Despite maintaining his innocence, Tyson was convicted of rape. Under federal law, he is required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

What Did Tyson Say After Being Released From Jail?

In 2003, during an interview with Fox News Network, Tyson referred to Washington as “a lying, monstrous young lady,” adding, “I just hate her guts.”

“She put me in that state, where I don’t know… But now I really do want to rape her and her … mama,” he added, claiming that Washington accused him of the 1991 assault because she was “money hungry.”

Was Tyson Bankrupt?

According to The New York Times, Iron Mike had earned at least $400 million before filing for bankruptcy in 2003.

One of the key factors behind his financial struggles was his lavish lifestyle. He spent $4.5 million on cars and motorcycles, including 19 vehicles bought for friends. Tyson also spent $400,000 on pigeons and exotic animals, such as Siberian tigers.

LAS VEGAS – CIRCA 1989: Mike Tyson poses with his white tiger during an interview at his home.
(Photo by: The Ring Magazine via Getty Images)

Who Won the Paul-Tyson Fight?

Paul won by unanimous decision after both fighters went the full eight rounds, each lasting two minutes.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 13: (L-R) Mike Tyson and Jake Paul speak onstage at the press conference in promotion for the upcoming Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match at The Apollo Theater on May 13, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images for Netflix)

How Much Did Tyson Get Paid for the Paul-Tyson Fight?

Online sources, including DraftKings Network, estimated that Tyson earned around $20 million.

Compared to his previous earnings, the difference in pay is significant. After being released on parole and returning to boxing in 1995, Tyson earned $30 million for each of his next four matches. This included the infamous 1997 bout against Evander Holyfield, in which Tyson bit off part of Holyfield’s right ear. Tyson was disqualified from the fight, had his boxing license revoked, and was fined $3 million, but he was allowed to keep his purse from the fight.