Mike Tyson’s love for cannabis has always been “loud” and proud.
Now the heavyweight champion will have an opportunity to channel his passion into dollar signs with the debut of Tyson 2.0 in partnership with Columbia Care Inc., one of the nation’s largest cannabis distributors.
Tyson will wear the hat of the company’s chief brand officer while the company will be led by co-founder and chairman Chan Bronstein and CEO Adam Wilks.
“I got to know Mike as an entrepreneur and investor, and it was clear to me that his relationship with cannabis was a critical component in his own life. We saw an opportunity to create Tyson 2.0 and develop brands and products nationally,” says Bronstein in a press release.
Mike Tyson credits cannabis as the saving grace in his then ongoing battle with substance abuse — which created a string of confrontations with the law — and credits the drug for alleviating his aggressive demeanor. At age 55, Tyson had a newfound confidence, ultimately leading to a comeback in the ring and a renewed entrepreneurial spirit.
“Cannabis has always played an important role in my life. My vision for Tyson 2.0 is to make high-quality cannabis products available to consumers at various price points. With Adam and Chad’s leadership, I am confident that the Tyson brand of products will exceed market expectations,” Tyson reveals in a press release.
He continued: “Cannabis has changed me for the good both mentally and physically, and I want to share that gift with others who are also seeking relief. With Columbia Care in our corner, we will reach so many people and deliver the high-quality cannabis products they’ve been searching for.”
Now Mike Tyson is ready to conquer this new chapter head-on. Following the launch of the boxer’s first company Tyson Holistic, Tyson 2.0 will feature an expanded selection of products including cost-friendly “full-spectrum cannabis flower, concentrates, and consumable,” according to a press release.
The Business Journals reports the company has already received backing from high-profiled cannabis and psychedelics investors pooling $6 million in a seed round led by Sol Global, Ambria, K2, and Arcadian Capital. According to PR Newswire, the money raised will be allocated to finalize cultivation agreements, select a team to drive sales into legalized markets and create new proprietary strains.
“Consumers want high-quality products that their favorite celebrities use first-hand. Tyson 2.0 will do just that,” Wilks says in a press release.
