Teddy Atlas: Mike Tyson, Cus D'Amato, Boxing, Loyalty, Fear & Greatness | Lex Fridman Podcast #406
Added: Dec 25, 2023
In this podcast, Lex Fridman interviews legendary boxing trainer and commentator, Teddy Atlas. The conversation delves into Atlas's life, including his tumultuous youth, his relationship with his father, and the impact his mentor and trainer, Cus D'Amato, had on his life. Atlas discusses how boxing saved him from a life of violence and how it taught him important life lessons.
Cus D'Amato
Atlas shares how Cus, his mentor and trainer, played a significant role in his life. He recounts a powerful testimony that Cus gave on his behalf, highlighting Atlas's character, loyalty, and potential. Cus's words underscore the impact he had on Atlas and the importance of loyalty in their relationship. Atlas also reflects on the wisdom Cus imparted to him, emphasizing the significance of commitment and bravery in the face of fear.
Lessons from His Father
Atlas reminisces about his father, who was a doctor and a significant influence in his life. Despite being a man of few words, his father's actions and values resonated deeply with Atlas. He learned the importance of perseverance and the power of compassion through his father's example. Additionally, Atlas discusses how his father's teachings and experiences shaped his understanding of fear, bravery, and loyalty.
Boxing
Atlas reflects on how boxing became a turning point in his life, saving him from a path of violence and self-destruction. He reveals his misguided pursuit of his father's approval, which led him into a life of crime and recklessness. Boxing became a way for Atlas to channel his aggression and find a sense of purpose. Through Cus's guidance, he learned to embrace fear, face his challenges, and strive for greatness in and out of the ring.
The Power of Fear
Atlas delves into the concept of fear and its profound impact on human behavior. He shares insights from his experiences, acknowledging the role of fear in shaping individual choices and actions. He emphasizes the need to confront fear and use it as a catalyst for bravery and growth. Moreover, Atlas discusses the dangers of convenience and the importance of remaining loyal and committed in the face of adversity.
Becoming a Trainer
The conversation then shifts to his partnership with Cus D'Amato, the renowned trainer who recognized Atlas's potential to be a teacher and mentor. Atlas shares the story of how he transitioned from being a boxer to a trainer, nurturing young fighters and building a successful boxing gym. Cus' vision for boxing as a means to empower and strengthen people resonates with Atlas, and he gains a new appreciation for the impact of his work.
The turning point in Atlas's life comes when a 12-year-old Mike Tyson is brought to the gym to be trained. Atlas recognizes Tyson's immense physical potential and innate desire to prove himself. This experience is a pivotal moment for Atlas and shapes his understanding of the responsibility of training fighters. He shares how Tyson's presence in the gym revitalized Cus and the boxing program, further solidifying his belief in the power of boxing to impact lives.
End of the Partnership
The conversation then takes a more somber turn as Atlas recounts the breakdown of his partnership with Cus and Mike Tyson. Atlas feels betrayed once again when Cus makes the decision to cut him off from both Mike Tyson and the gym. He struggles to understand why Cus, who valued loyalty so deeply, would make such a decision. This betrayal shakes Atlas to the core, and he grapples with feelings of abandonment and loss.
As Atlas reflects on this painful experience, he delves into the complexity of forgiveness and the impact of betrayal on his sense of self-worth. He candidly shares his struggles with forgiving Cus and coming to terms with the deep sense of hurt and betrayal he experienced.
Mike Tyson's Apology
The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Tyson offers a public apology to Atlas during a live fight commentary. Atlas opens up about his mixed emotions regarding Tyson's apology, questioning whether it was genuine or influenced by external factors. He reflects on the complexity of forgiveness and the need for genuine remorse and understanding in order to truly heal from a betrayal.
Mike Tyson's Legacy
The conversation delves into the topic of Mike Tyson's boxing career, with Atlas offering a nuanced perspective on Tyson's achievements. While acknowledging Tyson's sensational speed and power, Atlas doesn't fully endorse the label of greatness for Tyson. He mentions that Tyson's record of 55 fights only includes five where there was something significant to overcome, and Tyson didn't manage to overcome those challenges. This leads to a discussion about the nature of being a great fighter and the intrinsic requirements for achieving greatness.
Fear and Death
Atlas provides a candid reflection on fear and death, acknowledging that he has faced fear in various aspects of his life. He expresses a hope that he can be brave when it comes time to leave life, acknowledging that facing death will be a test. He reflects on his experiences of overcoming fears and challenges, expressing an optimistic outlook on facing difficult situations.
Related episodes
