Tyson's next opponent would be the WBA Heavyweight champion James "Bonecrusher" Smith, who had knocked out Tim Witherspoon in the first round to capture the title four months earlier.

Because of the excessive holding, referee Mills Lane twice took a point away from Smith, first in second round, and then again in the eighth.

Smith's best offensive pressure arguably was during the fight's final seconds in which he was able to land a right hand to the head of Tyson.

People expect a performance"[2] Mike Tyson would next defend his title against former WBC champ Pinklon Thomas, earning the victory by way of 6th round technical knockout.

For the second time in three fights, Tyson went the full 12 rounds, eventually defeating Tucker by unanimous decision.