Heavyweight boxing icon Mike Tyson recently opened up about his unforgettable first meeting with social media sensation Hasbulla. The two became a viral hit after a playful encounter on Tyson’s podcast, with Tyson appearing to treat Hasbulla, a 22-year-old influencer, as if he were a young child.
The now-famous clip, filmed during an episode of Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson in March 2023, shows Tyson interacting warmly with Hasbulla. Tyson, clearly charmed, even lifted Hasbulla into a hug and affectionately nuzzled his neck. For millions watching, the video was an instant sensation, and fans couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of Tyson, seemingly unaware that Hasbulla, despite his childlike appearance, is actually an adult.
Recently, Tyson spoke about the moment on The Art of Ward Podcast with former boxing champion Andre Ward, who couldn’t resist bringing up the clip and asking Tyson about his reaction. Ward wanted to know if Tyson had been in on the joke, questioning if the heavyweight champion had knowingly played along for the camera.
Boxer Mike Tyson Admits He Thought Hasbulla Was a Baby
Tyson, with a grin, admitted, “Yeah. I thought it was a baby. That’s how I am with children, I’m hugging on this guy, and he’s like 26 years old…”
Ward, laughing in response, pressed further, wondering aloud, “I didn’t know if you were playing it up for the camera.” Tyson clarified, “No, no. I did not know.”
The humorous misunderstanding has only fueled Hasbulla’s rise, solidifying his status as a beloved internet personality. Originating from Makhachkala, Russia, Hasbulla initially gained a fan base on Instagram, but his popularity skyrocketed after he joined TikTok in 2021. Known for his fearless attitude and unique voice, Hasbulla quickly became a standout figure in the world of combat sports and social media alike.
His appearance on Tyson’s podcast was part of his journey as one of the most recognizable faces online, where he has captivated fans with his confident persona and knack for humor. For Tyson, however, the meeting was a revelation – he truly thought Hasbulla was just a child.
Hasbulla
Hasbulla, who stands at just 3 feet 4 inches tall, is thought to have dwarfism, possibly related to a growth hormone deficiency, though he’s never officially confirmed it. His petite stature and distinct voice have made him an internet celebrity, with legions of fans following his every move. Hasbulla’s posts, often revolving around his love for combat sports and his everyday adventures, resonated widely enough that the UFC signed him to a five-year promotional contract in September 2022, capitalizing on his massive online presence.
