Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali—two names that transcend the world of boxing. Between them, they won the heavyweight crown six times and left unforgettable marks on the sport. Ali, the master of movement and razor-sharp wit, defined the golden era of heavyweight boxing with victories over legends like Sonny Liston, Joe Frazier, and George Foreman, the last of whom he outfoxed in the legendary “Rumble in the Jungle.” Tyson, meanwhile, became a sensation in the 1980s, his explosive power and ferocity culminating in his historic victory over Trevor Berbick in 1986, which made him the youngest heavyweight champion in history—a record that stands today.

But what would happen if “The Greatest” and “Iron Mike” had ever met in the ring, both in their prime?

Few are as qualified to comment as Larry Holmes—the only heavyweight champion to have faced BOTH icons in their professional careers. Holmes took on Ali in 1980, handing him a late-career defeat, and later faced Tyson in 1988, falling victim to a brutal fourth-round knockout. Recently, in an interview with TMZ Sports, Holmes gave his unfiltered prediction for this ultimate fantasy match-up.

“Mike Tyson would get beat up ’cause he’s a face fighter. He comes in down low, and Muhammad Ali is a jabber. He’d get that jab in there just like he did with Joe Frazier. So, Mike Tyson would have to get around that jab, and he’d have a lot of problems getting around that jab,” Holmes explained.

Holmes didn’t mince words on the outcome, stating confidently:

“Mike Tyson would’ve been knocked out by Muhammad Ali.”

Holmes’ analysis draws directly from experience. He knows firsthand the power of Ali’s jab and movement—tools that frustrated heavy punchers like Joe Frazier and could have stymied Tyson’s come-forward assault. Holmes points out that Tyson’s style, while fearsome, relies on closing distance and attacking up close—something Ali specialized in denying with his signature jab and footwork.

Of course, Holmes’ own history with Ali is not without controversy. In October 1980, Holmes stopped Ali in the tenth round at Caesars Palace in a bout that many saw as a fight too late for “The Greatest,” whose health was already in decline. Still, Holmes’ unique vantage point as the man who shared the ring with both legends gives his word extra weight.

So, the next time fight fans debate Tyson vs. Ali, there’s one champion who’s made his call clear: Advantage, Ali—and by knockout.