Mike Tyson's JetBlue Incident: The Myth Of Registered Hands As Deadly Weapons

After former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson reportedly got into an altercation with a passenger on a JetBlue flight on Wednesday, the incident sparked a flurry of discussions on social media. Many users questioned whether Tyson, known for his prowess in the boxing ring, was required to register his hands as weapons. This notion, while seemingly plausible given his background, is rooted more in myth than reality.

One Twitter user, @_RebeccaJB_, humorously asked, "Wait, aren't Mike Tyson's hands registered as 'deadly weapons'? AND he did this on a plane???!!!!" Such comments reflect the public's fascination with the idea that professional fighters must adhere to stricter regulations regarding their physical capabilities. Another user, @JimLockardWine, echoed a common sentiment, stating, "It used to be that a prize fighter's hands were considered deadly weapons. Not sure if that is still the case. Regardless, never annoy Mike Tyson."

This incident highlights a widespread misconception within the public domain. According to Steven Bash, a California-based attorney, there is no legal requirement for boxers or mixed martial arts fighters to register their hands as weapons. In an interview with Newsweek, Bash clarified, "Legally, there is no obligation whatsoever, and it would be a pure myth." So, while Tyson's hands might be capable of causing harm, they are not officially classified as weapons.

The Incident: What Happened on the JetBlue Flight?

Reports surfaced following the incident that Tyson had been involved in a confrontation with a fellow passenger during the flight. Witnesses claim that Tyson initially engaged with the excited fan, even posing for a selfie. However, as the situation escalated, Tyson requested the passenger to calm down, but the fan allegedly continued to provoke him. This led to Tyson turning around and striking the fan multiple times.

Video footage emerged showing Tyson repeatedly punching the passenger in the face. Onlookers were shocked, and the event quickly gained traction on social media. Bash pointed out that in such scenarios, a fighter might be judged more harshly in court due to their training and experience. If injured, the assailant could face serious charges, such as assault with a deadly weapon, rather than a lesser charge.

Understanding the Legal Implications for Fighters

Many wonder about the legal consequences for professional fighters like Tyson when involved in altercations. Bash explained that while fighters do not have to register their hands, they could be held to a higher standard if they cause injury. "If the knowledge that they may have of their abilities to injure someone to a greater degree was to come out, they could be subject to a heightened level of charge or crime," he stated.

This means that if a fighter were to engage in a fight, the legal system might consider their skills and training when determining the severity of the charges. Thus, while Tyson is not legally required to register his hands as weapons, the consequences of using them in a fight could be significant.

Dispelling the Myths: The Origin of Registered Hands

The idea that fighters must register their hands comes from historical anecdotes and public perceptions. A notable example is heavyweight champion Joe Louis, who allegedly brought a police officer to his weigh-ins to have his hands registered as "deadly weapons." This act has since been referenced as a publicity stunt, but it has contributed to the enduring myth that fighters must register their hands.

MMAHive.com mentions that this notion is still used today, despite being a complete myth. In reality, boxers and fighters face the same laws as any other individual when it comes to self-defense or altercations. The concept of "registered hands" appears to be more folklore than fact.

Key Takeaways from the Incident

Conclusion: Understanding the Reality Behind the Myths

The recent altercation involving Mike Tyson serves as a reminder of how misconceptions can shape public narratives surrounding professional athletes. While the idea of registered hands as deadly weapons is a captivating myth, it is essential to understand the legal framework that governs such situations. As we reflect on Tyson's incident, we should remember that while fighters may possess extraordinary skills, they are subject to the same laws as everyone else.

As discussions around this incident continue, it is crucial to separate fact from fiction. By doing so, we can foster a more informed dialogue about the realities facing professional fighters in their personal and public lives.