Mike Tyson Crushes Carl Williams In 93 Seconds

Williams had earned this opportunity the hard way. The 6-foot-4 challenger became the IBF’s No. 1 contender after defeating Trevor Berbick and other top heavyweights. He also went the distance with former champion Larry Holmes, and his height, long reach and jab were considered his best weapons against Tyson’s relentless pressure.

Promoted by Don King and televised by HBO, the tournament drew nearly 11,000 fans to Convention Hall. It was reported that Tyson received approximately $5 million, while Williams received approximately $1.2 million. Ringside tickets were sold for $500, although the event produced a much smaller gate than Tyson’s previous blockbuster title defense.

Williams tried to establish his jab quickly while tying Tyson whenever the champion closed the distance. Tyson continued to lean forward, clenching his fists in anticipation of an opening.

That opening came with just over a minute left in the fight. Williams fired another left jab, Tyson slipped out of it and responded with a crushing left hook that landed on the jaw. Williams was knocked back to the canvas. He defeated referee Randy Neumann but remained unsteady as he leaned against the ropes. After asking Williams if he was able to continue and not getting a satisfactory answer, Neumann stopped the fight at 1:33 of the opening round.

The decision immediately attracted an Atlantic City crowd. Williams dismissed the ban, insisting he was able to continue, and his camp unsuccessfully sought a rematch. No second meeting ever took place.

The victory extended Tyson’s reign as champion with one of the fastest heavyweight title fights in history. It was also the last successful defense of his undisputed championship before Buster Douglas ended his reign in Tokyo on February 11, 1990. Although the finish is still controversial, Tyson’s explosive left hook and contested stoppage have made the fight one of the most talked about moments of his championship career.