Kiki – The Wife Who Saved Mike Tyson’s Dark Life

Among Mike Tyson’s three wives, Lakiha Spicer, often called Kiki, played a pivotal role in Tyson’s life during his darkest days, helping the boxing legend find his way back to redemption. Tyson had previously been married twice: to Robin Givens and Monica Turner. Givens stayed with Tyson for just one year, while his marriage to Turner lasted about six years. During this period, Tyson’s name echoed throughout the boxing world, but his notorious reputation as a “talented but troubled” fighter often overshadowed his career.

Both of Tyson’s previous marriages ended before he filed for bankruptcy in 2003, and his life spiraled further with run-ins with the law, substance abuse, and public scandals. It was during this chaotic time that Kiki remained by his side, unwavering.

A Beautiful Beginning

Tyson first met Kiki when she was just 13 years old, through her stepfather Shamsud-din Ali, a respected Muslim cleric in Philadelphia. Kiki’s mother, Rita, was a journalist who had covered many of Tyson’s fights. In 1995, Tyson was set to fight Buster Mathis, and after a licensing issue, Kiki’s stepfather helped Tyson out. Kiki attended the post-fight press conference, and Tyson immediately took notice of her. After several meetings, the two developed a connection, and their relationship blossomed.

At the time, Kiki was working as a stylist for music videos, so her schedule was flexible, allowing her to travel back and forth between Phoenix, where Tyson trained, and New York. They enjoyed a happy period together, but it was short-lived as Tyson’s old habits resurfaced. Tyson’s infamous infidelity led to a breakup, and Kiki ended their relationship.

The Turning Point

In 2008, Kiki and Tyson reconnected. This time, Tyson was determined to build a lasting relationship. At that moment, Kiki’s family was facing serious challenges, and Tyson was facing prison time. Before he went to prison, Kiki revealed that she was pregnant with Tyson’s child. Tyson promised her in his autobiography, “You are the woman of my life, and when I get out, we’ll be together. I will be there for you and our child.“

Despite these promises, after his release, Tyson fell back into his destructive habits. However, Kiki remained committed, and in December 2008, she gave birth to their daughter, Milan, born on Tyson’s mother’s birthday.

Fighting Addiction Together

Tyson’s efforts to stay sober were a constant battle. After buying Kiki a small home in Las Vegas, Tyson entered rehab in Malibu. But after only four weeks, he left and checked into another facility in Los Angeles. During this time, Kiki was left to raise their daughter on her own, struggling financially. Despite Tyson’s fame and wealth, he only had $7,000 left in his account, and couldn’t provide for his family.

Once out of rehab, Tyson returned to live with Kiki and Milan. However, after only two weeks, he relapsed into his old ways. Kiki, however, did not give up. Tyson recalls how Kiki made him a deal, “If you need to use, stay at home and do it. But don’t go out and get into trouble.” Tyson admitted that overcoming addiction was not a smooth journey but was grateful for Kiki’s unwavering support.

The Road to Recovery

Kiki researched addiction recovery programs and found one called Impact in Palm Springs, California. Determined to help Tyson, she insisted he go, even though he resisted. After completing the program, Tyson relapsed again. But this time, he knew Kiki would not give up on him.

Tyson recalls one of their conversations: “Kiki asked me, ‘Are you going to do this again tonight?’ and I said, ‘Yes.’ She told me, ‘Then go back to rehab.’” This time, Tyson complied. After this final rehab stint, Tyson left his drug and alcohol habits behind for good.

Kiki’s Enduring Support

Through all of Tyson’s struggles with substance abuse and anger management, Kiki remained his constant. She was the one who stuck by him through the darkest moments of his life, refusing to leave. Tyson acknowledged her pivotal role in his recovery, saying, “Kiki saved my life.“

In the end, Kiki’s faith, perseverance, and unwavering love for Tyson helped him reclaim his life and find peace. Even after years of challenges, Kiki was the woman who never gave up on Mike Tyson, proving to be his greatest ally and the constant in his tumultuous journey.