Mike Tyson reveals why he was seen in wheelchair at Miami airport
A month after being photographed using a wheelchair at the Miami International Airport, Mike Tyson has clarified that it was because of his nerve-impacting condition, sciatica. Speaking to Greta Van Susteren of Newsmax TV, the boxing legend admitted that the pain spreads to such an extent that he is often left "unable to talk."
The former heavyweight champion had raised concerns among fans after he was spotted in a wheelchair, holding a walking stick in his hands. Fans were concerned about his health issues, and the boxer's clarification has confirmed what most people suspected — a flaring up of his sciatica.
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During the interview, Tyson clarified the story behind him using a wheelchair. He said, "Oh, I have sciatica. Every now and then, it flares up. When it flares up, I can't even talk." The interviewer went on to ask if that's the only health concern he is dealing with. To this, he replied, "Thank God it’s the only health problem I have. I’m splendid now." Tyson also spoke about his family, adding, "Everyone in my house is truly blessed and we're all very grateful for whatever we have."
Concerns for the boxing legend's health and his battle with sciatica increased when Tyson earlier claimed that he may pass away "really soon" during his 'Hotboxin' podcast. He stated, "We're all gonna die one day of course. Then, when I look in the mirror, I see those little spots on my face. I say, 'Wow. That means my expiration date is coming close, really soon.'"
According to Healthline, sciatica involves a sensation that can manifest itself as moderate to severe pain in a person's back, buttocks, and legs. The pain occurs when the sciatic nerve, our body’s longest nerve, is irritated. The symptoms may range from numbness, burning, or weakness in the legs or feet along the sciatic nerve pathway. It may also present itself as a pricking sensation of "pins and needles" that causes painful tingling.
'Iron Mike' appears to be suffering from sciatic complications related to his back, causing mobility issues that make it difficult for him to walk at times, resulting in him requiring support, either in the form of a wheelchair or a walking stick. The 56-year-old retired from professional boxing in 2005.
