Michael Maloney, who would later adopt the moniker Mike De Luca, entered the world in 1959, ushering in a life that would undergo a profound metamorphosis. The individual who would have a profound impact on his life was his step-father, William Maloney, whose influence would be felt for years to come.
Interestingly, Mike's formative years were spent in the Bronx, New York, a borough that would provide the backdrop for his early experiences. However, his life would take a significant turn at the tender age of 11, when he relocated to Long Island, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
Mike's collegiate journey at Eastern Kentucky University was initially geared towards a career in law enforcement, however, his remarkable athletic abilities would soon redirect his focus. In 1979, at the tender age of 19, Mike made a groundbreaking achievement by claiming the esteemed New York State Golden Gloves title at the iconic Madison Square Garden, securing a decisive victory over Harry Keitt, also known as "On The Ropes", within a mere 42 seconds of the inaugural round. The subsequent year, Mike's impressive performance continued as he garnered a silver medal at The Empire State Games, although his aspirations for the gold were unfortunately thwarted by a debilitating broken hand, which prevented him from participating in the final competition.
It was the year 1981 when Mike embarked upon a courageous and pivotal journey, one that would forever alter the trajectory of his life, as he set out to drive across the vast expanse of the American West, bound for the sun-kissed shores of California. Little did he know at the time, this bold decision would ultimately set him on a path towards realizing his long-held aspirations of becoming a professional boxer, a pursuit that would be expertly guided and nurtured by the seasoned expertise of none other than the renowned actor and producer, Tony Danza. This serendipitous turn of events would not only bring Mike a measure of personal fulfillment, but also provide him with the long-awaited opportunity to adopt the surname of his paternal forbears, De Luca, thereby reconnecting him with his heritage and cementing his sense of identity.
Mike Tyson, a former professional boxer, embarked on a new career path following his retirement from the sport in 1989, transitioning into a professional bodyguard from 1984 to 1989.
Mike's journey has taken a unique turn as he has transitioned from his original profession to become a skilled studio plasterer and laborer, proudly affiliated with Union Locals 755 and 724.
