THIS IS ALSO THE END OF PAULS: This fight is a black day in boxing history. Can’t see the legend like this – Danny Williams v Mike Tyson – 30th July 2004 | HO

On This Day in 2004: British boxer Danny Williams knocked out Mike Tyson

British fighter Danny Williams caused one of the biggest upsets in boxing history when he knocked out Mike Tyson in Louisville.

Former undisputed world heavyweight champion Tyson was left on the canvas towards the end of the fourth round in what proved to be the penultimate fight of his career.

It was only the fifth time the 38-year-old had been beaten.

Londoner Williams, a 9-1 outsider who was largely written off before the fight in Kentucky, said: “This is the greatest feeling in the world and by far my biggest moment in boxing.

“I proved people wrong – they have to take me seriously now.”

Tyson began well, landing a couple of heavy blows, but later had no answer to his 31-year-old opponent.

According to the American’s manager, Shelly Finkel, he tore a ligament in his left knee during the bout and became unable to throw meaningful right-handed punches.

Tyson announced his retirement the following year after failing to appear for the seventh round of his fight with Irishman Kevin McBride in Washington DC.

Brit boxer who beat Mike Tyson in 2004 is still fighting and has lost four of last five

A boxer who once beat Mike Tyson is still competing despite losing four of his last five encounters

Danny Williams is yet to finally throw in the towel on a 25-year career in the ring that was full of ups and downs – including a victory over Tyson.

The fighter retired in 2020 after losing his 29th bout, going down to Sergei Kharitonov in Russia – but he then came back to face off last month, losing a four-round decision against Serdar Avci in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Williams’ biggest achievement is certainly beating Tyson in 2004 – though he conquered Iron Mike when the legend was a bit past his prime.

The London-born fighter – who is now 48 years old – won his first 15 fights as a professional – losing his first fight to Julius Francis in 1999.

Tyson was the favourite by 9-1 (Image: Press Association)

His record was a decent 31–3 when he went into the fight against Tyson, who was the favourite going into the bout.

At the Freedom Hall in Louisville, Kentucky, Williams defeated Tyson by knockout at 2:51 of the fourth round.

Tyson had got to his feet again – but the referee had already counted him out.

But Williams had other ideas (Image: Press Association)
Williams four just one of his last five fights, losing four – and he currently has a record of 54-30, with one no contest.

Williams told boxingnewsonline: “I’m not being disrespectful but Mike Tyson is not the most handsome-looking man, and with all that money, women he would only [previously] dream of having coming to him came to him. What was he going to do?.