Mike Tyson, the legendary boxing icon, has again taken to social media to champion cannabis legalization, arguing that the current state of federal prohibition enables powerful criminal networks to thrive. In a recent post, Tyson criticized the widespread fearmongering around legal cannabis, stating, ‘Tired of hearing that legal cannabis will cause mass chaos or have people stinking up the streets. That’s just ridiculous.’ He framed the issue as one of freedom and regulation, comparing the treatment of marijuana to that of cigarettes and alcohol, which are already subject to legal frameworks.
Tyson’s advocacy extends beyond personal opinion. Earlier this month, he shared insights with Fox News Digital about how his own history with cannabis influenced his reform stance. He revealed that his use of marijuana helped him avoid legal trouble during his early years, a perspective that underscores the broader debate over the criminal justice implications of current drug policies. This perspective is part of a larger movement he and other celebrities have joined, including Kevin Durant and Allen Iverson, who have collectively written a letter urging the Trump administration to reclassify marijuana.
While Tyson’s focus is largely on policy change, recent research has raised eyebrows about the health risks associated with cannabis consumption. A study by UC San Francisco found that eating edible cannabis, such as gummies, carries the same cardiovascular risk as smoking marijuana for long-term users, due to reduced blood vessel function. This finding adds a layer of complexity to the reform debate, as advocates must balance the push for legalization with public health concerns.
Tyson’s advocacy also includes a call for criminal justice reform, emphasizing the need for mass clemency for nonviolent marijuana offenders. He recounted a personal story of a friend who was incarcerated during his childhood and not released until he himself became a boxing star. This anecdote underscores the human impact of current laws and the potential for reform to address systemic inequities.