Mike Tyson’s Explosive Comeback vs. Peter McNeeley – August 19, 1995

August 19, 1995, marked the return of Mike Tyson to professional boxing after four years out of the ring due to his 1991 arrest for rape. Tyson was later convicted in 1992 and sentenced to six years in prison, and later paroled on March 25, 1995. His much-anticipated return was billed as “He’s Back,” which saw him take on Peter McNeeley at the MGM Grand Las Vegas, Paradise, Nevada. It was an eventful comeback fight for “Iron Mike” that saw him ultimately win by 1st-round disqualification.

Mike Tyson Defeats Peter McNeeley in Eventful Comeback Fight

Mike Tyson vs. Peter McNeeley Recap

After four years out of the ring, “Iron Mike” returned with a bang. The atmosphere in the stadium was full of anticipation, with the most talked about boxer on the planet returning to the ring. His opponent Peter “Hurricane” McNeeley started the bout aggressively from the opening bell and seemed to be looking to claim a stunning early KO win.

McNeeley’s punches were wild, and Tyson evaded these despite his long time away from boxing and landed a clean straight right hand that floored “Hurricane” just seconds into the fight. After the count of eight, McNeeley flew at Tyson again, and the two exchanged heavy-looking shots in the corner. “Iron Mike” landed a right uppercut that floored his opponent again. McNeeley was clearly hurt and chaos then ensued with his manager Vinnie Vecchione entering the ring causing referee Mills Lane to wave the fight off, with Tyson winning by disqualification.

What Happened Next?

Following the win over McNeeley, Tyson’s career remained a talking point, with a win over Frank Bruno, two losses to Evander Holyfield and a tough defeat to Lennox Lewis. “Iron Mike” was never as dominating after four years out of the ring, but his comeback created plenty of talking points.

Incredibly, Mike Tyson will return to the ring on November 15, 2024 to face Jake Paul.