Mike Tyson was a master of intimidation (as well as head movement and ridiculous knockouts).  Despite his relative insanity, I also find him to be an incredibly honest and forthcoming athlete... over time, I've built up a lot of respect for this guy, and his character.  

In the aftermath of his career, he's opened up a lot about his mental state before (and during) his fights:

In today's video, he talks about how truly afraid he was before his fights, despite appearing supremely confident.  He talks about the methods he used to intimidate his opponents... and find doubt in their eyes.  

He also talks (without realizing it) about the power of hypnotic suggestion.  (Tyson used a hypnotist before his fights).

"As I get closer and closer to the ring, I become more confident... until I step inside, and then I'm a God".

This positive mental imagery allowed him to literally create his desired mental state, as he stepped into the ring.  The power of his own hypnotic suggestion gave him emotional control.

Take a second and watch this short film on Tyson, as he discusses fear, intimidation, and this powerful manipulation of his mental state... it might change the way that you think about this sort of thing.

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