Considered by many hip-hop fans as the “King of the South,” Tip “T.I.” Harris has quickly become the main topic of conversation in comedy since beginning his stand-up comedy career in early January. Starting his career during a comedy showcase in Atlanta, Georgia, footage from that performance would go viral throughout social media. Harris would immediately gain celebrity fan support on his new venture from various stars and athletes, including one of boxing’s most iconic figures, former world heavyweight champion “Iron” Mike Tyson.
This past weekend, the 41-year-old rapper took to Instagram to share photos of him hanging out with boxing great Tyson after a scheduled performance at The Laugh Factory comedy club in West Hollywood, California.
Like any good comedian, Tip made sure to crack a joke about his special guest in the caption, referencing Tyson’s new “Mike Bites” ear-shaped edibles that are inspired by his infamous fight with boxing opponent Evander Holyfield.
“My Patna @miketyson pulled up on me tonight @laughfactoryhw to check out my set,” he wrote. “slide 2 I’m asking him if [Evander] Holyfield was all ears when he told him bout his new edibles. Maaaaan We kicked sh*t & [P]ushed [P] All night!!”
Of course, Mike Tyson is no stranger to stand-up comedy himself. In 2013 he delivered Undisputed Truth, a one-man show in which he reflected on his storied life and career with often humorous takes. The TV special was directed by Spike Lee.
Despite earning Mike Tyson’s approval, T.I.’s burgeoning stand-up comedy career isn’t bowling everyone over. In February, veteran comedian/actor Godfrey mocked the trap pioneer’s “three week”-old comedy career and questioned his intentions.
T.I. inevitably jumped on Instagram Live and clapped back at Godfrey. “You said in your little interview that he’s not a comedian and had you taken the time to come to the stage … you would have heard in my set I said ‘I am not a comedian, I’m a superstar,” he responded. “There’s a difference.”
