Mike Tyson has always spoken his mind.

A highly controversial figure both inside and out of the ring, the American has attracted much criticism throughout his career and personal life.

However, if one thing is certain, it’s that Iron Mike was a devastating fighter. 

Successfully defending the world heavyweight title nine times and recording 44 knockout victories over the course of a 20 year career, he is highly qualified to give his opinion on all things boxing.

This week, while in Dubai scouting out venues for a new boxing academy, Tyson has weighed in on the never ending speculation surrounding a possible boxing match between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor.

Despite the confidence and undoubted fighting ability of the current UFC lightweight champion, Tyson believes McGregor wouldn’t stand a chance against Mayweather in a boxing ring.

With a perfect 49-0 professional record, ‘Pretty Boy’ Mayweather was untouchable throughout his career, earning him widespread recognition as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

However, when Tyson was asked about the possibility of the two facing each other, he didn't hold back, stating it would be 'total garbage'.

Tyson told ESPN: "If Mayweather boxes McGregor, it will be total garbage.

"But if Floyd goes to UFC...now that would be interesting. I want to see an MMA fighter fight a boxer, not an MMA fighter box a boxer.

"In a boxing ring, McGregor is outmatched by Mayweather - it won't be fair. McGregor is a colourful guy, but I'd much prefer to see where he's at in a match with UFC rules."

Although Mayweather is famed for his extravagance and lavish spending outside the ring, his professional success was founded on a conservative approach, from the meticulous selection of his opponents to his tactics in the ring.

Although fans of both sports would undoubtedly love to see a showdown in the Octagon, it would seem unlikely that a man who spent much of his boxing career in his comfort zone would risk humiliation by venturing into the unknown world of UFC.

If Mayweather does take on McGregor, rest assured it will be on his terms.