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Mike Tyson Reveals Foot Fungus from No-Socks Habit

Published 15 November 2025

Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight boxing champion known for his ferocious dominance in the 1980s, recently revealed a persistent health struggle stemming from his signature no-socks fighting style during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live. The 59-year-old Tyson, who became the youngest heavyweight titleholder in history at age 20, described how the habit contributed to a severe case of foot fungus that continues to plague him.

Tyson explained that going sockless was part of his "real hardcore" image in the ring. "I only used to for fighting where that was my image," he told host Jimmy Kimmel. But the choice led to complications. "I somehow discovered that I had a disintegrating dose of foot fungus. And it was really bad. It's still really bad now," Tyson said. When Kimmel asked if the fungus was his greatest opponent, Tyson replied, "Well, I would have to say so because it's still kicking my ass now." He dismissed suggestions of using over-the-counter treatments like Desenex antifungal powder, adding, "Desenex cannot help me. My toes look like they blew up."

This candid admission comes amid Tyson's reflections on a career marked by unparalleled speed and power. In 1986, he...

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