20 Famous Movie Tattoos (And What They Actually Mean)
15. Tyson (2008)
Role: Mike Tyson as Himself
The 2008 documentary paints a stunning portrait of the life of Mike Tyson, all in his own words. As well as hearing accounts of his life played alongside old video footage, we see regular shots of the so-called Baddest Man on the Planet being interviewed for the film, complete with facial tattoo.
Tyson got the infamous tattoo prior to his fight with Clifford Etienne in 2005 a fight that would be his last ever victory in professional boxing.
Though Iron Mike got the tattoo at a point in his life when he was criticised for his reckless, alcohol-ridden lifestyle, the tribal piece is surprisingly relevant to the character of the boxing legend; the bold lines designed to enhance the contours and natural geography of Tysons face actually originate from the tattooing traditions of the Aborigines who used tattooing, or moko, to venerate their warriors.
Mike Tyson - easily the most ferocious heavyweight to have competed in high level boxing - is certainly a warrior. The ancient cultural traditions didn't stop Todd Phillips et al from poking fun at the tattoo in The Hangover Part II though...