Mike Tyson Puts Shark To Sleep As Boxing Legend Admits He Was "Scared To Death"

Mike Tyson put a shark to sleep by tickling its nose during the 'Tyson vs. Jaws' challenge for Shark Week.

Tyson, 54, went underwater to face a great white shark to kick off Discovery Channel's Shark Week.

The returning boxing icon was pitted against the shark in a three-round format.

And 'Iron' Mike reigned victorious after achieving "tonic immobility" - a temporary state of inactivity in the shark.

He had to grab a shark and induce a state of tonic immobility, which he successfully did by grabbing its nose as he admitted he was "scared to death."

Tyson travelled to the Bahamas to prepare himself for the outrageous challenge. He worked with experts to get more familiarised and comfortable with sharks.

Speaking about his experience, he 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."

Tyson will return to land when he competes in his challenge as he takes on Roy Jones Jr in an eight-round exhibition bout.

But the high-profile contest has been postponed to November 28.

The former world heavyweight champion retired 15 years ago but still plans to return to the ring.