Mike Tyson Launches ‘Return of the Mike’ Stage Show Tour

Boxing icon Mike Tyson is set to return to the stage with his one-man show, “Return of the Mike,” starting on November 9, 2023. The performances will take place at four Hard Rock Live venues across the United States, as confirmed by representatives from both Tyson and Hard Rock International. This marks Tyson’s first stage performance since his extensive national tour for “Mike Tyson: The Undisputed Truth” in 2013.

Tyson’s announcement follows last week’s reveal that he will face Floyd Mayweather Jr. in an exhibition match scheduled for next spring. The new show will be recorded for a “major global streaming platform” and is set to be released in 2026. The taping will occur on December 14, 2023, in Hollywood, Florida, offering fans a unique opportunity to see the former heavyweight champion in action.

Reflecting on his upcoming performance, Tyson shared with ESPN, “A lot has happened since the last time I did a one-man show. I get to tell you guys about all of my new lawsuits that you don’t know about and some other pretty exciting stuff that has happened in my life.” He emphasized that the show will provide a mix of riveting stories, including both light-hearted and serious moments from his life, with a focus on his battles with addiction and mental health.

Insights and Personal Reflections

Tyson has spent recent years collaborating with his wife, Lakiha “Kiki” Tyson, on the content for this performance, which he describes as a “no-filter self-analyzation.” He intends to delve into his recent experiences, including a health scare that nearly derailed his match with Jake Paul. Tyson recounted, “I didn’t know how dangerous an ulcer was. I thought it was going to calm down in an hour or two, but I passed out on the plane. I was just bleeding everywhere.”

He added that the fight with Paul was particularly daunting, stating, “It was scary [walking to the ring that night], because I hadn’t walked out for a professional fight in front of a crowd in 20 years.” Tyson also noted that the doctors had reservations about his ability to compete due to his health issues leading up to the match.

The tour will kick off in Rockford, Illinois, followed by performances in Cincinnati on November 23 and a special live taping in Hollywood, Florida, on December 14. The final show of the tour will take place at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on January 23, 2026.

Ticket Sales and Future Endeavors

As preparations for his stage show intensify, Tyson is also gearing up for his upcoming fight with Mayweather. He acknowledged the challenges of staying in shape as he approaches his 60th birthday, stating, “Preparing for the stage and preparing for a fight are dead even.” Despite the challenges, Tyson relishes the pressure that comes with performing, asserting that it is part of what drives him.

Ticket sales for “Return of the Mike” will begin with presale options on Tuesday, followed by general sales starting Friday. Keith Sheldon, president of entertainment and brand at Hard Rock International, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “As the proud host of ‘Return of the Mike,’ this show will add to Hard Rock’s legacy as a curator of one-of-a-kind experiences.”

Fans of Tyson can look forward to an engaging and personal glimpse into the life of one of boxing’s most celebrated figures as he embarks on this new journey.