← All stories
Psychology

Tyson Says Cus D'Amato Told Him Never to Speak Negatively About Himself

Theo Von · #658 - Mike Tyson (Live at the Wiltern) · May 15, 2026
Tyson Says Cus D'Amato Told Him Never to Speak Negatively About Himself
Theo Von
Theo Von
#658 - Mike Tyson (Live at the Wiltern)
"When I had my mentor, he told me not to ever say anything negative about myself. Only say beautiful things about myself because my subconscious don't know if I'm playing or not."
Tyson credited his legendary trainer Cus D'Amato with instilling mental discipline at age 12 by teaching him to only speak positively about himself, as the subconscious cannot distinguish truth from fiction. This mental programming became foundational to Tyson becoming heavyweight champion at 20.
From this episode
Theo Von
Theo Von

#658 - Mike Tyson (Live at the Wiltern)

August 3, 2026 · 5 Egleze moments
Read episode summary and key points →

More moments from this episode

EntertainmentMike Tyson Caught Brad Pitt in Car He Bought for Estranged WifeCrime & JusticeTyson Became Criminal to Buy Nice Clothes After Childhood HumiliationConsciousness & MedicineMike Tyson Reveals Doctor Asked Him for Cocaine During Medical VisitCrime & JusticeTyson Says Rehab Counselor Took His Cocaine Then Demanded Access to Women
More stories More from Theo Von