The WWE has had numerous ties with the boxing world, specifically at Wrestlemania. Whether it’s Floyd Mayweather or Mike Tyson, there’s no denying that the wrestling company knows business with boxing.
With the success of Wrestlemania 40, it’s time to explore some past appearances by boxing legends at the show. Some have fought in matches, while one was even the referee in the main event. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable appearances by boxers in “The Show of Shows”.
1.) Muhammad Ali: Wrestlemania 1
Believe it or not, Muhammad Ali was involved in the first-ever Wrestlemania. In fact, “The Greatest” was the special guest referee in the main event. It consisted of a tag-team match between the baby faces, Hulk Hogan and Mr. T (I pity the fool!) vs. the heels, “Rowdy” Roddy Piper and “Mr. Wonderful” Paul Orndorff.
The match ended with Ali delivering a knockout blow to Piper, helping Hogan and Mr. T win the match. The former heavyweight champion was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year for his contributions to WWE.
2.) Mike Tyson: Wrestlemania 14
Another special guest referee appearance was by none other than Mike Tyson. “Iron Mike” was set to be the referee for the main event between Stone Cold Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels.
Tyson has a contentious build-up with Austin, getting in his face and regularly taunting him. However, the former WBC heavyweight champion knocked out Michaels, helping Austin emerge as the victor. Additionally, “Iron Mike” was paid $3 million to appear at the event, earning him a hefty payday.
3.) Eric “Butterbean” Esch: Wrestlemania 15
The next Wrestlemania event saw Eric “Butterbean” Esch (77-10-4) take on Bart Gunn in a shootfight. Esch ended up knocking Gunn out in 34 seconds, showcasing his boxing mettle.
However, that wasn’t the first time “Butterbean” was involved in the WWE. He also defeated Marc Mero at D-Generation X: In Your House on December 7, 1997. It’s safe to say Esch is also a seasoned professional wrestler besides being an established boxer.
4.) Floyd Mayweather Jr.: Wrestlemania 24
Additionally, there was another boxer involved in a one-on-one match at “The Show of Shows.” His name was Floyd Mayweather and he took on the Big Show. 39-0 at the time, people were drawn to seeing if the diminutive Mayweather could take down the 7 ft. Big Show.
The former champion took down the giant, landing some solid punches en route to a victory. Additionally, Mayweather took home a $20 million paycheck for appearing in one Wrestlemania match.
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