Teddy Atlas oversaw the development of a young Mike Tyson, helping to shape the 58-year-old into the boxing icon he’s known as today.
However, the 68-year-old has snubbed Iron Mike when it comes to naming the greatest talent he’s worked with.
Atlas started working with Tyson at the start of his career, with the coach overseeing his development between the ages of 12 and 15.
He’s also worked with big names such as Michael Moorer, Tim Bradley, and Shannon Briggs.
Boxing news: Mike Tyson has been snubbed by Teddy Atlas ahead of his press conference with Jake Paul
Yet Atlas, speaking to The Ring, has now overlooked Tyson and the three other men by naming Wilfred Benitez as his best talent instead.
“Sometimes you go to the Academy Awards and one movie wins all the awards,” he said.
“What are you gonna do? That would be Benitez.
“Anyone who could beat Roberto Duran, amongst many other great fighters, that’s a pretty good resume.
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“I would say Benitez overall was the package. He was a special fighter.”
Tyson is arguably the best heavyweight of his generation, having lit up boxing during his prime years in the sport.
Fast-forward to now, however, and it’ll be fascinating to see how the veteran fares on his return to the ring.
Tyson is set to face Paul at a press conference on Sunday as the bout between the two men, which will take place on November 15, creeps closer.
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The duo had originally been due to lock horns on July 20, having announced that date in March.
Yet the fight was pushed back after Tyson suffered an ulcer flare up.
Speaking recently, however, he insisted he was ‘feeling great’ – and vowed to knock out Paul when they finally meet in the ring.
“I’m looking forward to facing off with Jake Paul at Fanatics Fest in NYC,” he said. “The countdown is back on.
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Boxing news: Mike Tyson was coached by Teddy Atlas at the start of his career
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“I’m feeling great and looking forward to knocking out Jake Paul on Netflix on Friday, November 15 at AT&T Stadium in Texas.”
As for Paul, the 27-year-old says fighting Tyson is a ‘dream come true’.
However, he has no plans to take it easy on his hero – with Paul promising it will be a ‘nightmare’ for the veteran.
Boxing news: Mike Tyson and Jake Paul are set to meet at a press conference on Sunday
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“After eating Mike Perry as an appetiser, I’m ready to go for the main course on Friday, November 15,” he stated.
“To fight the biggest baddest boxer ever is a dream come true for me, but it will be a nightmare for Mike Tyson.
“It’s cool to be featured at Fanatics Fest alongside some of the biggest names in sports, and I look forward to delivering a show the fans won’t forget on Friday, November 15th.”
Source Agencies
