Boxing legend Mike Tyson received a hero’s welcome in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, as he embraced his Congolese heritage during the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the iconic “Rumble in the Jungle.”
Tyson’s visit, rich with symbolism and emotion, struck a deep chord with Congolese fans who celebrated his acknowledgment of his ancestral roots.
The former world heavyweight champion met with President Félix Tshisekedi as part of the commemoration of the 1974 bout between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, one of the most historic fights in boxing history.
The “Rumble in the Jungle,” held on October 30, 1974, in Kinshasa (then Zaire), saw Muhammad Ali reclaim the heavyweight crown after knocking out George Foreman in the eighth round.
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The event, promoted by Don King and financially backed by then-President Mobutu Sese Seko, was the first heavyweight title fight staged on African soil.
It became more than a sporting contest; it was a celebration of Black pride, African identity, and global unity.
For Tyson, the visit was deeply personal. Recent genealogical research revealed that his maternal lineage traces back to the Congo, a discovery that has profoundly shaped his understanding of his identity.
Speaking in Kinshasa, Tyson described his trip as a “pilgrimage of connection,” paying tribute to both Ali and Foreman while reflecting on Africa’s role in shaping the global boxing narrative.
As Kinshasa relived the spirit of 1974, Tyson’s presence underscored how the “Rumble in the Jungle” continues to inspire generations.
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