A decades-old dispute between Mitch Green and legendary heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson has resurfaced, reigniting debates about fairness in boxing pay structures. This renewed attention comes shortly after Tyson’s shocking loss to YouTube star Jake Paul in Texas, a bout for which Tyson reportedly earned $20 million.
The conflict dates back to 1986, during the lead-up to Tyson’s fight against Green. At that time, Green publicly criticized the significant pay disparity between the fighters. While Tyson was slated to earn $200,000 for the match, Green was set to make just $30,000. The disagreement escalated at the weigh-ins when Green threatened to pull out of the fight unless the issue was addressed. Ultimately, a deal was struck allowing Green to be released from a managerial contract in exchange for a reduced purse, enabling the fight to proceed as scheduled.
Nearly four decades later, Green revisited the incident during an interview, stating his intention to potentially sue Tyson over the matter. Green has previously taken legal action against Tyson; in 1997, he filed a lawsuit seeking $25 million after a street altercation with Tyson in Harlem in 1988. The court, however, awarded Green only $45,000, an amount insufficient to cover his legal expenses.
Green’s renewed focus on the 1986 fight stems from his belief that Tyson earned far more than publicly disclosed. While official reports indicate Tyson made $200,000 plus a portion of an HBO deal, Green alleged Tyson’s earnings were closer to $750,000 or even $1 million. Green, who was ranked higher than Tyson at the time, claimed he was misled by promoter Don King, who downplayed the disparity. Green recalled questioning King about Tyson’s pay and being told it was “a little more” than his own. Disheartened by the unequal terms, Green admitted he lacked enthusiasm for the fight but ultimately participated at his mother’s urging.
The controversy highlights long-standing issues in boxing, particularly concerning unequal payouts and the influence of promoters. Despite Tyson’s growing popularity in 1986, Green argued the gap in pay was unjustifiable, given his own ranking and reputation at the time.
This case serves as a reminder of the systemic problems in boxing’s pay structure. While some argue that Tyson’s star power justified the disparity, others see Green’s grievances as a reflection of broader inequities in the sport. Even after 38 years, Green’s frustration remains unresolved, sparking a renewed conversation about fairness and transparency in boxing.