Mike Tyson visits DR Congo to reconnect with his ancestral roots
Boxing legend, Mike Tyson returned to Africa, marking a deeply personal journey to his ancestral homeland. The former heavyweight champion touched down in Kinshasa, DR Congo to pay tribute to his ancestral roots, receiving a hero’s welcome in a nation that holds a historic place in boxing’s memory.
Tyson’s visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of the famed “Rumble in the Jungle”, the 1974 world heavyweight title fight between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman. The legendary bout, staged in what was then Zaire, remains one of sport’s most iconic events. For Tyson, the anniversary celebrations offered the perfect backdrop to trace his lineage and honour the land of his forebears.
Thousands lined the streets as the boxing icon arrived, acknowledging him with Congolese flags. Traditional drummers and dancers performed in his honour, while local officials hailed his visit as a symbol of unity between Africa and its global diaspora.
Later, Tyson met with President Félix Tshisekedi, where discussions reportedly touched on youth development, sports diplomacy, and cultural exchange programs aimed at reconnecting African descendants across the world.
Tyson revealed that DNA analysis had traced his maternal ancestry to the Congo basin; a revelation that gave new meaning to his journey. “To stand on this soil, knowing my ancestors came from here, is beyond powerful,” Tyson said during an emotional address in Kinshasa. “I came to honour them and to rediscover a part of myself.”
His emotional connection was welcoming with many Congolese, who viewed Tyson’s return as both an embrace of African identity and a recognition of Congo’s influence in the global story of boxing. Local media described the visit as “a moment of reconnection between a son of the continent and the spirit of Africa.”
As part of the commemoration, Kinshasa’s government announced plans to rename parts of the historic stadium complex where Ali and Foreman fought in honour of both men. The refurbishment, officials said, would include a new training center and exhibition space chronicling the history of African fighters who shaped the sport.
Tyson also took time to engage with young athletes, urging them to dream big and stay disciplined. “Boxing gave me direction when I had none,” he said, encouraging youth to find purpose through sport. “You can be from anywhere in the world, but discipline, belief, and heart can take you places.”
Beyond nostalgia, the visit has stirred conversations about the role of sports in reconnecting the African diaspora with the continent. For the Democratic Republic of Congo, it offered a chance to celebrate its sporting legacy while amplifying its cultural importance on the global stage.
As Tyson prepared to leave, he described the journey as transformative. One that connected his past to his present. “I didn’t just come to look back,” he said with a smile. “I came to feel where I came from.”
Written by Kweku Sampson
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