Shohei Ohtani received more recognition as one of the world's greatest sports stars, but Mike Tyson has apparently never heard of him.
In addition to winning Best MLB Player, Ohtani earned the ESPN Award for the year's greatest single-game performance. The two-way phenom pitched six scoreless innings and hit three home runs in an NLCS win en route to the Los Angeles Dodgers capturing their second straight World Series title.
Tyson presented the award alongside Jake Paul and DJ Khaled at Wednesday's ESPYS. After Paul explained that Ohtani wasn't in attendance to accept, a hot mic caught Tyson asking his former boxing opponent an awkward question that indicates he's unfamiliar with Ohtani.
"Shohei's a guy?" Tyson asked.
Teaching Tyson about Ohtani
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Ohtani isn't just a guy. He's the guy on the diamond.
The 32-year-old is on track to win his fourth consecutive MVP award and fifth in six seasons. Although his offensive numbers are down a tad, his .953 OPS still ranks fifth among all qualified hitters at the All-Star break.
Ohtani would still be among baseball's premier players if he were only a full-time designated hitter. Unfortunately for the other 29 teams, he's also a shutdown ace.
The Japanese sensation is enjoying his best season on the mound, posting a 1.79 ERA in 14 superb starts. He could be a front-runner to add a Cy Young Award to his crowded mantle if not for stout competition from a field led by Jacob Misiorowski and Cristopher Sanchez.
Ohtani skipped the All-Star Game due to a knee issue, but Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that the four-time Silver Slugger will at least DH during this weekend's three-game series against the New York Yankees.
The marquee 2024 World Series rematch could give Tyson a golden opportunity to learn more about Ohtani. Iron Mike and everyone else will almost certainly get another chance to watch Ohtani play in October, and the Dodgers commence the second half with an 11.5-game lead in the National League West.
