Boxing legend Mike Tyson landed in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, to join in the 50th anniversary celebrations of the iconic “Rumble in the Jungle” fight between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman.
The month-long commemoration, organized by DIVO International with support from the Congolese government and the U.S. Embassy in DRC, has turned the capital into a global hub for boxing fans and history enthusiasts.
Tyson, who has often been described as one of Ali’s successors, held a press conference at the newly renamed Ali-Foreman Stadium, formerly Stade Tata Raphaël the same venue where the 1974 heavyweight showdown made history.
“It’s an honor to stand where my heroes once fought,” Tyson told reporters, recalling how he was just nine years old when the legendary fight captivated the world.
The former world heavyweight champion was greeted by thousands of cheering fans and local leaders who celebrated his visit as both a cultural and emotional homecoming, given his ancestral ties to Africa.
During his stay, Tyson was received by President Félix Tshisekedi at the Presidential Palace. The two reportedly held an hour-long discussion covering life, boxing, and potential collaborative projects in the DRC.
“I was warmly welcomed and received with great enthusiasm by the President,” Tyson said afterward. “It was a very nice experience. We talked about life and a few projects to do. I’ll be returning soon.”
The celebrations will culminate on October 30, when the Ali-Foreman Stadium will be officially renamed to honor the two boxing greats.
The program also includes cultural exhibitions, sports galas, and tributes to African athletes who have shaped global sporting history.