Former world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson converted to Islam in the 1990s while he was incarcerated and remains a Muslim to this day. Tyson has often spoken about his religious journey to Mecca, stating, "I was overjoyed to become a Muslim. Allah doesn’t need me, but I need Allah." He also said, "I am a Muslim, but I respect all religions ... I pray often, and when I die, I want to die as a Muslim."
Tyson embraced Islam during his imprisonment between 1992 and 1995, and his conversion brought him peace during a turbulent period in his life. After converting, he changed his name to Malik Abdul Aziz.
He credits Islam with providing him with a moral compass, spiritual foundation, and helping him become more responsible, especially in his family life.
While describing himself as a devout Muslim, he performed the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca in 2022. Many people see his story as a powerful example of the transformative power of faith and personal growth.