Even though his many questionable decisions, head-scratching quotes and thirst for human flesh got in the way, Mike Tyson was an unbelievable force at the pinnacle of his career. He blended speed and strength into a lethal combination to destroy his opponents. In short, he was a captivating study into what an athlete could be capable of through diligent training.

But Tyson's appearance at the Video Game Awards on Sunday night revealed a shocking new Mike. One that emphasizes "heavyweight" over "champion of the world."

While it'd be real easy to make jokes about how far he's fallen, Tyson's story is more sad and pathetic than anything else.

""My whole life has been a waste - I've been a failure,"  the former champ told USA Today in 2005. "I'm really embarrassed with myself and my life. I want to be a missionary. I think I could do that while keeping my dignity without letting people know they chased me out of the country. I want to get this part of my life over as soon as possible."

Mike Tyson: The Real Heavyweight Champion   [NBC Washington]