In a surprising twist, boxing legend Mike Tyson found himself in a playful scuffle with one of the internet’s favorite personalities.
During an appearance on Tyson’s “Hotboxin’” podcast, Tyson and Hasbulla Magomedov, a 22-year-old Russian internet sensation with millions of followers, shared an unexpected viral moment.
Fans worldwide have since flocked to social media, expressing both amusement and disbelief at the bizarre and heartwarming encounter that ensued.
Tyson, who’s no stranger to high-profile interactions, was initially caught off guard by Hasbulla’s stature.
Standing just over three feet tall due to a growth hormone deficiency, Hasbulla’s unique charisma and lively spirit have won him a dedicated online following.
In what started as lighthearted fun, Hasbulla threw a few playful punches at Tyson, prompting the boxing icon to respond in a way that would soon flood the internet with laughs and memes.
Footage from the episode reveals Tyson playfully picking up Hasbulla, holding him close as if cradling a child, and even mimicking a playful ear bite, recalling Tyson’s infamous moment in the ring with Evander Holyfield.
Fans were quick to notice Tyson’s instinctual response, as he seemed completely absorbed in the playful act.
Social media users buzzed with laughter, with one fan commenting, “It’s like Mike’s brain refuses to process that this is a small MAN, not a toddler!”
Others marveled at how Hasbulla, who typically avoids being treated like a child, allowed Tyson to hold him with ease.
This unexpected interaction only added to Hasbulla’s viral presence, with fans sharing snippets from the podcast across platforms.
A year after the memorable moment, Tyson finally addressed what many had suspected but not confirmed.
Speaking with Andre Ward on “The Art of Ward” podcast, Tyson admitted he had been completely unaware of Hasbulla’s age.
“Yeah. I thought it was a baby. No, no. I did not know,” Tyson explained, adding, “That’s how I am with children, I’m hugging on this guy, and he’s like 26 years old. I knew nothing at all!”
Tyson’s honest admission of mistaking Hasbulla for a toddler sparked even more online amusement, as fans reacted to the boxer’s natural instinct to treat Hasbulla as a child.
As Tyson gears up for his anticipated return to the ring against YouTube star Jake Paul on November 15, the 58-year-old champ emphasized that his age won’t hold him back.
“I don’t think I’m 58,” he said, expressing confidence about his readiness to face the 27-year-old Paul.
Tyson described himself as “a different species of human being,” vowing to give fans a “wonderful evening” in the ring.
For Hasbulla, the viral moment with Tyson has only added to his social media legacy.
Reflecting on his condition, he once stated, “I can’t say that I’m handicapped. I can speak, I understand. I have arms and legs just like others.”
Tyson’s initial misunderstanding was met with no hard feelings, and Hasbulla even hinted he’d be up for a rematch.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/@miketyson) (Instagram/@hasbulla_)
