Mike Tyson v.s Joey Cortez (Amateur Bout)

[Bad_Intentions]

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[Danny]

Just by watching that, you can tell Tyson was being taught to have a style that was suitable for the professional ranks, rather than the amateur.

Mike was blessed with natural talent, power, speed etc. I remember watching footage of Cus Damato saying: "Once Mike developed skills to avoid getting hit, into the habit of moving his head a great deal etc, he proved to be a real formidable force, & it was hard to get sparring for him because he had such talent in terms of power & speed".

Tyson is probably 15 years old at the most when the bout took place. Very advanced boxer for someone of his age. Back then, Mike would often spar with guys who were older, more experienced, & possibly slightly better at the time, in order for him to develop as a fighter. I feel this was a crucial & very smart move from D'Amato.