Mike Tyson, the legendary boxing icon, has publicly tied the potential of his future in the ring to the federal legalization and rescheduling of cannabis. In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital on his 59th birthday, Tyson stated that whether he would fight again depends on whether marijuana becomes legal and rescheduled. He emphasized that this decision hinges on the federal government’s action on cannabis policy, a matter that has been a personal priority for him. Tyson, who has been a vocal advocate for cannabis reform, expressed disappointment with the handling of federal cannabis issues by former President Barack Obama and President Joe Biden, hoping that President Donald Trump might adopt a different approach.
Tyson’s stance on the issue is further underscored by his past experiences. He mentioned that he agreed to his last fight against YouTuber Jake Paul while under the influence of marijuana, which he believes made him more objective. He stated that without cannabis, he would not have embarked on that fight. Tyson’s decision to partake in the fight was influenced by his belief that cannabis helped him maintain a clear mind, allowing him to make rational decisions. He acknowledged that without cannabis, he would be too emotionally involved.
Tyson is not alone in his advocacy for cannabis reform. He has been part of a coalition of athletes, including Kevin Durant, Dez Bryant, and Antonio Brown, who have signed a letter to the White House urging federal cannabis reform. The letter calls for rescheduling cannabis from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug, clemency for nonviolent marijuana offenses, and an end to discriminatory banking practices affecting the cannabis industry. Tyson highlighted that rescheduling is the