Mike Tyson is ready to make his fighting comeback, although it will not be inside a boxing ring this time.The Discovery Channel have announced that the former two-time heavyweight champion will take on a Great White shark as part of 'Shark Week'. Yes, don't rub your eyes or adjust your computer screens, Mike Tyson is set to do battle with a Great White Shark.The fight has been dubbed 'Tyson vs Jaws: Rumble on the Reef,' and will take place on August 9.Iconic ring announcer Michael Buffer is also set to be involved in proceedings on what promises to be a truly remarkable spectacle."With famed ring announcer Michael Buffer calling the shots, these two heavyweights will square off underwater, where Mike Tyson will try to score a TKO over the massive shark … all in the name of research," Discovery explained.Tyson announced earlier this year that he was planning to make his boxing return. The 54-year-old has been showing off his impressive physique in recent months, as he attempts to get into fighting shape.
However, Tyson has admitted that he is apprehensive about fighting again, and is using the unusual match-up as an opportunity to build his confidence ahead of stepping into the ring once more.
"I equate this with overcoming my fear of getting back into the ring at 54 years old," he said.
I learned from this experience doing Shark Week that whatever intimidates me, I am still able to step up to the challenge of overcoming anything that would prevent me from accomplishing my life’s mission of reaching my highest potential in life and bringing me closer to God.
Having been one of the most intimidating fighters in history in his heyday, Tyson's concerns about making a comeback are understandable. He has not fought since 2005, and appeared a shadow of his former self in his final years, losing three of his last four contests.
Whether he has much left to offer remains debatable, and we are unlikely to find out too much about his current fighting credentials in his upcoming bout.