Mike Tyson addresses viral Hasbulla clip, admits mistaking Influencer for a baby

Boxing legend Mike Tyson has clarified the viral moment with social media star Hasbulla Magomedov, admitting he thought Hasbulla was a baby during their first encounter.

The clip, which has garnered millions of views, features the former heavyweight champion playfully blocking Hasbulla’s punches before picking him up and cradling him like an infant. Tyson, 58, shared his surprise in a recent interview with former middleweight champion Andre Ward, stating, “I thought it was a baby… I was hugging on this guy, and he’s like 26 years old. I knew nothing at all!”

Hasbulla, 22, who has a rare type of dwarfism due to a growth hormone deficiency, has become a popular figure in combat sports, often attending events and connecting with fighters globally. The incident occurred during Hasbulla’s appearance on Tyson’s HotBoxin’ podcast in 2023, adding to the influencer's rapid rise on social media.

Tyson’s comments come just before his highly anticipated return to the boxing ring on November 15, where he will face Jake Paul in Dallas. Addressing his upcoming match with Paul, a fighter 31 years his junior, Tyson expressed confidence. “He’s supposed to be the young guy, I’m supposed to be the old man… I think he should try it,” Tyson remarked, adding that his rigorous training keeps him in top shape. He assured fans, “It’s going to be a wonderful evening; the city of Dallas is going to be entertained.”

Tyson’s return has stirred excitement in the boxing community, with analysts and fans eagerly awaiting the showdown between the seasoned champ and the younger, social-media-savvy Paul.