Have you ever wondered how the toughest challenges can forge the most formidable champions? Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they discuss the riveting autobiography 'Undisputed' by Mike Tyson and Larry Sloman, delving into Tyson's tumultuous journey from a troubled childhood to becoming the youngest heavyweight champion in history.

This episode explores Tyson's early life in a tough Brooklyn neighborhood, his introduction to boxing, and the pivotal role of mentors like Bobby Stewart and Cus D'Amato in shaping his career. It highlights how Tyson's embrace of his origins and his battle against adversity led to extraordinary success, yet also how fame, substance abuse, and impulsive decisions nearly derailed his life. The discussion underscores the importance of mental health, the need for honest advisors, and the dangers of complacency.

In this episode of Performers, you will:

Tune in to this episode of "Performers" for a captivating exploration into the life of Mike Tyson, and learn how his story of resilience and reinvention can inspire your own journey towards overcoming obstacles and achieving inner peace.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:07 Early Life and Upbringing

04:26 Lack of Stability and Trauma

06:14 Finding Belonging in the Streets

08:08 Meeting Bobby Stewart and Cus D'Amato

10:00 The Power of Role Models

11:27 Training with Cus D'Amato

14:21 Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence

16:13 The Importance of Self-Talk and Visualization

22:52 The Mission and Immortality

26:40 Living with Cus D'Amato

29:01 Unpacking Trauma and Building Confidence

32:26 Singular Focus and Extreme Dedication

34:23 Learning from the Greats and Seeking Immortality

36:17 Facing Fear and Overcoming Challenges

38:14 Facing Failure and Learning from It

40:08 The Loss of Cus D'Amato and Its Impact

44:25 The Importance of Visualization and Mentors

46:16 The Desire for Fame and the Villain Persona

48:38 The Heavyweight Champion of the World

51:32 The Influence of Don King and the Negative Effects of Entitlement

56:17 Lack of Stability and Values

59:39 The Upset Loss to Buster Douglas

01:06:44 Lack of Preparation and Loss to Buster Douglas

01:10:33 Rebuilding and Refocusing After Defeat

01:14:51 The Epic Rematch with Ruddock

01:16:15 The Trial and Imprisonment

01:16:45 Life in Prison

01:19:04 Plotting a Comeback

01:20:03 Struggling with Shame and Identity

01:21:02 Return to the Ring

01:23:26 Doubts and Insecurities

01:24:50 Regaining the Championship

01:26:48 The Infamous Biting Incident

01:29:14 Losing Composure

01:31:09 The Importance of Composure

01:33:07 The Downfall and Reflection

01:38:09 Legacy and Personal Growth