Mike Tyson Immobilises Shark During Discovery Channel's Shark Week

Mike Tyson managed to 'immobilise' a shark as he steps up his training for a return to the ring.

Tyson, who is due to step back in the ring against Roy Jones Jr later this year, admitted to being 'scared to death' by the 'Tyson vs Jaws' challenge, which was set up as part of the Discovery Channel's Shark Week.

The boxing legend faced 'three rounds' against sharks, starting off with him working alongside scientists in the Bahamas to get used to being around reef sharks, lemon sharks and bull sharks before taking part in a cage dive with lemon sharks, according to the Bleacher Report.

While in the cage, Tyson said: "Why am I doing this? What the f*** am I doing? I'm stupid to do this."

When asked how he's feeling he admitted: "Scared to death."

In the second 'round' he went on an open ocean dive where he was told to gently nudge the sharks away if they got too close. Rather you than me, mate.

The third and final round was the final challenge for Tyson, who was tasked with inducing tonic immobility - a temporary state of inactivity - which he managed to do.

Discovery Channel

And in case you're now wondering if the poor shark is OK - tonic immobility isn't harmful and, according to the Discovery Channel, is regularly used by researchers when handling the animals to subdue them.

"It's caused by stimulating the tiny sensory pores on a shark's snout, bringing about a temporary state of inactivity," the channel tweeted last night.

Once the shark is released it'll snap out of it and go back to normal, no harm done.

In a statement Tyson said: "I took on this challenger to overcome fears I still deal with in life. I equate this with overcoming my fear of getting back into the ring at 54 years old.

"I learned from this experience doing Shark Week that whatever intimidates me, I am still able to step up to the challenge of overcoming anything that would prevent me from accomplishing my life's mission of reaching my highest potential in life and bringing me closer to God."

PA

Tyson is getting ready for his first fight since 2005 in his upcoming eight-round exhibition bout against Jones Jr in November.

On social media, Tyson has been showing off his impressive speed and strength as he gets stuck into training.

Shark Week continues until 16 August on Discovery Channel.

Topics: TV and Film, Animals

Claire Reid

Claire is a journalist at LADbible who, after dossing around for a few years, went to Liverpool John Moores University. She graduated with a degree in Journalism and a whole load of debt. When not writing words in exchange for money she is usually at home watching serial killer documentaries surrounded by cats. You can contact Claire at [email protected]

@ClaireReid19