@@birblife6611 that would've been fine with me (if holmes had been given the decision both times). i was thinking of somebody like tommy morrison beating foreman and the same with spinks: nobody can take away from you that you beat one of the greats!
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.
His brother was outstanding? He was pretty useless, almost lost more fights then he won, just the Ali fight made him a name. Michael on the other hand, was outstanding.
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
Such a humble guy. I love Tyson, but I felt so bad for Michael because nobody had a chance against Tyson back in the day. Michael should be so proud of what he's accomplished in this life, and I hope he is.
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.
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.
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....
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.
All fights are judged as a learning lesson even the defeats As Tyson said when he lost to Buster The biggest fights as it is also the biggest lessons in life can be your mistakes to know what to not repeat
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.
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.
@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 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
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 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.
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.
I think they did wait him out. Not that Muke needed that but they could've fought sooner. They built it up and Tyson made a huge payday for the time. 91 seconds. I love to hear him say his favorite fighter was Leon Spinks. That was badass.
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!
I am a little bit sad most people remember Spinks from the Tyson fight. They don't know/remember he fought two wars vs. The Easton assassin Holmes and won both. I will always remember The man who brings the jinx with joy and a smile. Truely a respectful and humble human!
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.
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.
@stuartphillips822 Larry wasn't past his prime in the slightest. He was 35, undefeated and the HW champ. Larry also beat Ray mercer 7 years after the first Spinks fight. Ray mercer was a hell of a fighter and has won an olympic gold medal, beat Tommy Morrison and had a very very close fight with Lennox Lewis.
Spinks was scared when he stepped up to Tyson right before the fight. You could see that look in Spinks eyes of fear. I remember the fight like it was yesterday.
@@donniematonnie9378 , didn't see all 3 yr replies - Actually Tyson is my favourite of all time! . I guess my main point is that his speed / reflexes were unbeleivable - Tommy Fury beat Jake Paul for ffs! - Any other heavyweight would beat Paul - When your main asset fades then it's over. Paul is a clever turd
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: 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.🙏
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.
He said boxing developed character then comes up with excuses why he lost to Tyson. He either took a dive for the money or got it handed to him. Clearly can’t admit he got beat
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
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
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.
@WISHBONEL7 personal opinion it was the roids just look at the body transformation. Testosterone decreases with age. Buddy was getting 17-18 year old levels in his 30s.
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 🙂
The fact that Tyson Fury got knocked down by a first time former UFC fighter shows how badly the heavyweight division and boxing in general has deteriorated.
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...
Came out literally unscathed. I respect boxers who get out like this. Better to retire like this then to fight way too long.
Very true. U can tell he’s been out of it long. He looks, sounds healthy. He actually looks like he was never a fighter at all.
this is old. He is much slower now. VladTv has new interview
beating larry holmes twice is a major accomplishment given that he was undefeated before he fought spinks.
Spinks probably lost both fights, zero doubt he lost the rematch.
@@birblife6611 that would've been fine with me (if holmes had been given the decision both times). i was thinking of somebody like tommy morrison beating foreman and the same with spinks: nobody can take away from you that you beat one of the greats!
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
@@savemyself100 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!
they are a Boxing dynasty, really. 3 World Titles for 2 guys. including the linear HW title, which ALI himself called, "the REAL title".
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.
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.
@@johnjobber2219The resident fool disagrees. Thanks for sharing
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 👍….
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.
@@Tomtrong-y1b You’re right. I was just teasing.
I think he said it was Muhammad Ali who told him that.@@TheGodYouWishYouKnew
Humble guy, and his brother was an outstanding fighter, RIP..
His brother was outstanding? He was pretty useless, almost lost more fights then he won, just the Ali fight made him a name. Michael on the other hand, was outstanding.
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
The Spinks brothers were both class lads. Great respect from Ireland ☘️
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.
Sounds like a really nice guy. If the networks ever start televising the fights again he would be a great ringside announcer.
This man is articulate, humble, polite and has an incredibly pleasant demeanor. Seems like a very nice guy. I’m very impressed.
His brother was great 👍 too
Articulate? Why are you people obsessed with how he speaks?
@@The_RealWilliam…wow! What a stupid question. Are you more impressed with blithering morons?
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
Such a humble man who genuinely adores his brother. Than you for such a great video.
I never heard Michael interviewed before. He seems like a really good man with a good head on his shoulders.
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
Pure class, Michael Spinks was my favorite from that 1976 Olympic Boxing Team. Great fighter and a true gentleman!
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
I remember a older Caucasian male customer of mines speaking about Leon Spinks, on how he was one the sweetest people you could meet .
That is how to be confident but respectful. What a classy guy.
One of the greatest light heavyweights of all time! God bless him and his brother leon may he rest in peace!
Such a humble guy. I love Tyson, but I felt so bad for Michael because nobody had a chance against Tyson back in the day. Michael should be so proud of what he's accomplished in this life, and I hope he is.
What a great guy! still remember when he beat Lorry Homes
seems like a really nice guy, respect -great fighter in his day aswell
Great interview. Michael Spinks never appeared to me to be a cool guy but this interview really has shown a different side to him. Great Champion.
He looks incredibly young for a 1976 gold medalist . That was almost 50 years ago
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.
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❤
he sounds a beautiful person reminds of Michael Watson personality wise
Mike Tyson 🤨
Mike Spinks always took care of his money, wasn't flashy, and knew when to step away
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.
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.
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
All fights are judged as a learning lesson even the defeats
As Tyson said when he lost to Buster
The biggest fights as it is also the biggest lessons in life can be your mistakes to know what to not repeat
Love this guy! Great achievements in the toughest possible sport. Great guy and a great champion! Nuff respect champ! 🥊
A Class act! Hard not to like him
What a classy guy. He and Leon have to be regarded as one of the greatest boxing brothers of all time.
Great interview. Super respectful and did not push any agendas or dig for sensational soundbites.
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.
@@mattlenton2012 bold statement... ...its tough. Ezzard charles, Archie Moore, Sam Langford,
Gene Tunney all could be in the equation..
Nice to see you're still looking in good shape. Well done, Michael.
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
@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.
@stuartphillips822 bahahahaha mate watch the vid! that ko was sickening! he fell out of the ring when he tried to get up lol
Never followed Michael much, but
interview showed his true respect &
love for his brother. Nice man.
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
Great interview. Michael Spinks is a smart, classy guy.
Wisdom from a brother that lived through the storm respect 🙏
Rest in peace Leon.
Michael Spinks is a high class man. Humble, kind and well spoken.
YOUR'RE A REAL GENTLEMAN AND TRUE CHAMPION. GOD BLESS AND WISH YOU THE BEST! EAA
Great interview...From the early 2000s...
Wow, Spinks is more thoughtful and well spoken than I imagined
Michael is one of my all time favorite fighters
Very skilled and a classy man
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
he was a career 175 pounder too people conveniently forget that tyson beat a light heavyweight that night
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.
What a humble fellow with class
Amazing man ,all respect from England 🤝👊🏴
This was a great interview 🔥🔥🫡
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.
Excellent interview!
Total respect for Mr. Spinks. Always clean and straight up. God bless him
I think they did wait him out. Not that Muke needed that but they could've fought sooner. They built it up and Tyson made a huge payday for the time. 91 seconds.
I love to hear him say his favorite fighter was Leon Spinks. That was badass.
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!
I am a little bit sad most people remember Spinks from the Tyson fight. They don't know/remember he fought two wars vs. The Easton assassin Holmes and won both. I will always remember The man who brings the jinx with joy and a smile. Truely a respectful and humble human!
This guy is one of the greatest in boxing. Very nice personality too
Outstanding interview, Michael has a great personality, thanks Jeff
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.
Micheal Spinks has no reasons to be upset he was great
.
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
He obliterated Gerry Cooney with ease.
@stuartphillips822 Larry wasn't past his prime in the slightest. He was 35, undefeated and the HW champ. Larry also beat Ray mercer 7 years after the first Spinks fight. Ray mercer was a hell of a fighter and has won an olympic gold medal, beat Tommy Morrison and had a very very close fight with Lennox Lewis.
This guy always big up his brother, very nice guy......RIP to the brother
I enjoyed Michael when he boxed. He was one of my favorite boxers in his era. He is very well spoken.
Spinks was scared when he stepped up to Tyson right before the fight. You could see that look in Spinks eyes of fear. I remember the fight like it was yesterday.
Great person and fighter!
Great interview..Everyone forgets that Tyson always beat fighters who were at lest 10years older than him!
@Baz-Ten...Tyson was 19 when he turned pro. He beat up fighters 26, 28 & 29 with winning records. So what! They weren't old either.😁😆😅😂🤣
@Baz-Ten...you tried to make it seem like Tyson was beating up old fighters. 🤣😅😆😂 false!
@Baz-Ten...You can't discredit Tyson for turning pro @ 19 years old. That's a weak whacked out insane excuse for him winning.🥴
Larry Holmes was the oldest fighter 22 year old Mike ever fought. Most were still in their 20's when Mike was 19.🤔 So what are you saying?😆
@@donniematonnie9378 , didn't see all 3 yr replies - Actually Tyson is my favourite of all time! . I guess my main point is that his speed / reflexes were unbeleivable - Tommy Fury beat Jake Paul for ffs! - Any other heavyweight would beat Paul - When your main asset fades then it's over. Paul is a clever turd
Michael was a very good fighter. More importantly, he's a very good Human Being.
One of my favorite fighters of all time. Michael Spinks one of the best ever!
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.
He's a nice pleasant chap without a doubt.
Glad he didn't claim it was because he wore a 40lb mask.
😅
Which reminds me of Wilder.
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 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😂
Such a tremendous fighter and after listening to him, what a humble man. Pure class...
He's articulate, humble and a great role model. Never got his due.
I remember when he fought Tyson that day. The terrified look on his face said everything I needed to know.
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
Just seems like a super nice guy!
Great champion . One of the best to step into the ring.
He said boxing developed character then comes up with excuses why he lost to Tyson. He either took a dive for the money or got it handed to him. Clearly can’t admit he got beat
Michael Spinks, A Great Champion and a Great Man 🙏👍🙏👍
Ps, Much Respect to His Brother
Leon Spinks R.I.P. 🙏🌹
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
What was your greatest moment as a fighter?" My greatest moment as a boxer was....". Total class from Michael.
Much love and respect for this man
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
What a top guy he seems. Big respect.
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.
Was this after he started taking riods?
@@rc6149 I heard Evander bought the roids under the name "Evan fields"
@@rc6149 or was it simply his intense workouts with Lee Haney ?
@WISHBONEL7 personal opinion it was the roids just look at the body transformation. Testosterone decreases with age. Buddy was getting 17-18 year old levels in his 30s.
Great interview Jeff. I had the pleasure to meet both of these great champions.
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
@@garyfrancis4970 Prime Mike was the Rooney era. He had a short prime really but the Spinks fight was the finale
What a humble and seemingly nice man. I hope life has treated him well after boxing.
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 🙂
The fact that Tyson Fury got knocked down by a first time former UFC fighter shows how badly the heavyweight division and boxing in general has deteriorated.
Him and Holyfield would have been a great fight at 190 lbs . 👏🏾 Cruiserweight
shit holyfield was 190 at one point? crazy
I had to view this...thank you for posting...a true warrior.
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...