BoxRec

Kalan wrote:The deal was... Tyson was an American and Lewis wasn't... Therefore Lewis got the short end of the stick often.

I do not think it was the main issue here. We are not comparing their achievements, or discussing possible result of prime vs prime... this is about being an icon, and for that you need to have some kind of "personality" (good or bad).

Ali was involved with Nation of Islam and then with Vietnam war. Tyson was known for his extravagant spendings, style of life and scandals. And Lewis was pretty much nonexisting outside the ring. Not saying it is good or bad, but definitely does not help you to become an icon.

If you still think the main issue is about being American, just switch Lewis to Holyfield.