As such, Tyson instead chose to face one of his mandatory challengers, 1984 Olympic Gold Medalist Tyrell Biggs, who was undefeated since turning pro.

Prior to their fight, Biggs bashed Tyson in the press, boldly stating among other things "He`s never fought anyone like me.

Biggs would also promise to use his mobility and superior overall boxing ability against the stronger Tyson, stating, "He's strong, but his strength will not hurt me.

This would finally set up the much anticipated Tyson–Spinks fight, a match Tyson would win in 91 seconds to capture the Lineal Heavyweight championship.

He was knocked out by his next two opponents, but would rebound to win his next four fights and in 1991, he would meet two future Undisputed Heavyweight champions, Riddick Bowe and Lennox Lewis, though he was defeated by both men by way of technical knockout.