In the second installment of The Mike Tyson Career Profile, we dive into the raw, formative years of a young fighter destined for greatness. From the gritty gyms of Catskill, New York, under the watchful eye of legendary trainer Cus D’Amato, Tyson rapidly rose through the amateur boxing ranks. His explosive power and relentless aggression made him a standout in the junior circuits, culminating in national titles and high hopes for Olympic gold. But the road to the 1984 Olympics ended in heartbreak, as Tyson failed to make the U.S. team—a bitter disappointment that would ignite an even deeper hunger in the young contender. As the dream of Olympic glory slipped away, Tyson and D’Amato turned their full focus toward the professional ranks, forging a plan to unleash a new kind of heavyweight on the world stage. Through expert commentary and firsthand accounts, this episode captures the critical transition from amateur promise to professional preparation—where discipline was sharpened, demons loomed, and a legend began to emerge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices