Two years after a highly publicized altercation aboard a JetBlue flight, the video of Mike Tyson repeatedly punching a fellow passenger continues to stir legal battles. Melvin Townsend, the man on the receiving end of Mike Tyson’s blows, has officially filed a lawsuit against the former heavyweight champion and the airline.
Mike Tyson: A Confrontation Gone Viral
The incident, which occurred during a late-night flight from San Francisco to Florida on April 20, 2022, gained widespread attention after video footage captured by another passenger was released by TMZ.
The clip showcased a tense scenario unfolding in the first-class section of the plane, where Mike Tyson was seen delivering multiple punches to Townsend, who was seated directly behind him.
Representatives for Mike Tyson explained shortly after the incident that Townsend had been an “aggressive passenger” who not only harassed Mike Tyson but also escalated the situation by throwing a water bottle at the boxing legend.
Tyson himself vented about the confrontation on his podcast, indicating that the passenger was bothering him, and expressed his frustration with flying on public planes.
The man Mike Tyson repeatedly punched on a JetBlue plane has lawyered up, and the attorney's first thoughts are suggesting a lawsuit might not be far away. https://t.co/v0dcxJPbsh
— TMZ (@TMZ) April 22, 2022
Despite the viral nature of the altercation, the San Mateo County District Attorney opted not to pursue criminal charges. They remarked that it was a matter better settled personally rather than criminally, highlighting the complexity of the situation.
The Legal Battle Unfolds
Fast forward to late 2023, Townsend made a move to settle the matter by sending a pre-litigation settlement demand for $450,000 to Mike Tyson’s camp, which Tyson’s lawyer dismissed as a “shakedown payment.”
With no resolution in sight, Townsend filed a complaint in the San Mateo County Superior Court right before the expiration of a two-year statute of limitations for some claims on April 19, 2024.
The complaint provides Townsend’s perspective, describing how he and a friend were excited to find themselves seated near Mike Tyson, whom he admired. According to Townsend, the initial interaction was friendly, with discussions about Tyson’s illustrious career and Townsend offering to buy drinks.
The complaint further alleges that Mike Tyson offered them psilocybin mushrooms, which they declined. The situation escalated quickly when Tyson, reportedly without any provocation, stood up and began assaulting Townsend.
Claims and Defenses
Townsend’s legal filing includes several claims for damages against Mike Tyson—assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress—and against JetBlue for negligence, among other charges.
Townsend’s representatives portray him as a smaller individual unable to defend himself against Mike Tyson, who is not only physically imposing but also has extensive training as a professional fighter.
Tyson’s team has responded vigorously, asserting that Townsend was the initial aggressor and suggesting that the lawsuit is a strategic move to leverage money from Tyson, especially given the timing of Tyson’s upcoming fight with YouTuber Jake Paul.
Tyson’s representatives have stated unequivocally that they intend to refute these claims and expect to prevail in court. JetBlue, meanwhile, has yet to make a public statement regarding the lawsuit.
Looking Ahead: A Jury Trial Requested
Townsend is pushing for a jury trial, seeking to have his day in court to address his claims. As the legal proceedings advance, this case continues to attract media attention, not only because of the high-profile personalities involved but also due to the broader implications concerning celebrity interactions and personal space in public settings.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant repercussions, potentially setting precedents for how similar cases are handled in the future. As the date for the trial approaches, both legal teams are preparing to present their arguments, ensuring that this case remains in the public eye for the foreseeable future.
