Mike Tyson is widely regarded as one of the most ferocious fighters to ever step foot inside a boxing ring.
In 1986, he made history by becoming the youngest-ever heavyweight champion at just 20 years of age.
The boxing legend dominated the heavyweight division for years before suffering a shock defeat to James 'Buster' Douglas in 1990.
Tyson wasn't finished though, as he later regained his belts in 1996 by defeating Frank Bruno.
Mike Tyson is renowned as one of the best boxers of all time
YouTubeHis career also featured memorable bouts against boxing greats Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis.
But what was the secret behind Tyson's remarkable success and intimidating presence in the ring?
The answer to this question was revealed by Tyson himself in a 2019 interview with GQ magazine.
The boxing icon disclosed his surprising pre-fight ritual that fuelled his success in the ring.
"When I was fighting, I ate a steak, some vegetables," Tyson explained.
"And right before, an hour or so before the fight, I would have chocolate bar and orange juice - just to get a quick sugar rush before I go in the ring."
This unexpected dietary choice might seem at odds with the image of a professional athlete.
Yet for Tyson, this simple combination became an essential part of his preparation routine.
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The quick sugar boost apparently helped him maintain his explosive power and energy.
This unusual ritual proved remarkably effective for Tyson throughout his career.
The chocolate and orange juice combination became a cornerstone of his pre-fight preparation.
It helped him develop a fearsome reputation for overwhelming his opponents in the opening rounds.
Tyson's explosive starts and devastating power became his trademark in the ring.
Mike Tyson was formidable in his prime GETTYFew fighters could withstand the initial onslaught from a sugar-fuelled Tyson.
His ability to end fights quickly and decisively made him one of boxing's most feared competitors.
The ritual became as much a part of his success story as his punching power and defensive skills.
It's a fascinating insight into how even the smallest details can contribute to sporting greatness.
It is unknown whether Tyson maintained his chocolate and orange juice ritual for his recent comeback fight against Jake Paul in November.
If he did, the results suggest it may have lost its magic after all these years.
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Mike Tyson's loss to Jake Paul has come under questionReutersReturning to the ring after nearly two decades, Tyson delivered what many considered a lethargic performance.
He ultimately lost by unanimous decision to the YouTuber-turned-boxer.
Despite the defeat, Tyson expressed pride in his comeback effort.
"This is one of those situations when you lost but still won," he wrote on X following the bout.
He revealed he had nearly died earlier in the year, requiring eight blood transfusions after losing half his blood.
"I'm grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time," he added.
