Rayna Tyson, who also goes by Ramsey Tyson, is one of the children of boxing legend Mike Tyson. While most of the public knows Mike Tyson for his boxing triumphs and media appearances, Rayna has carved out their own identity and path—one rooted in creativity, advocacy, and authenticity. As a transgender and nonbinary individual, Rayna’s life journey has sparked curiosity, conversation, and admiration. Yet, unlike many celebrity children, they have chosen to keep a low profile, focusing instead on film, activism, and self-discovery. This article takes a deeper look at Rayna Tyson’s life—from childhood to career and beyond—exploring how they’ve grown into a unique and inspiring figure in their own right.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Rayna Tyson
Also Known As: Ramsey Tyson
Date Of Birth: February 14, 1996
Gender Identity: Transmasculine, Nonbinary
Pronouns: They/Them
Parents: Mike Tyson and Dr. Monica Turner
Sibling: Amir Tyson (Younger Brother)
Education: Tisch School of the Arts, NYU
Profession: Film Crew & Creative Artist
Advocacy: Trans Rights, LGBTQ+ Causes, The Trevor Project
Rayna Tyson’s Early Life And Childhood
Rayna Tyson was born on February 14, 1996, into a life already touched by fame. As the daughter of former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson and medical professional Dr. Monica Turner, Rayna grew up in a home where both spotlight and structure coexisted. While their father’s larger-than-life persona attracted media attention, their mother played a critical role in providing stability, especially during Tyson’s turbulent years. Rayna’s childhood was shaped by these contrasting influences—public curiosity and private care. Their early years were not only about growing up in a celebrity household but also quietly laying the groundwork for their future self-expression and creativity.
Parents And Family Background
Rayna’s parents met in 1990 at a party hosted by actor Eddie Murphy. Their mother, Monica Turner, was then a pre-med student who later became a pediatrician at Georgetown University Medical Center. She supported Tyson during his 1993 prison sentence and married him in 1997 in a quiet Muslim ceremony. The marriage lasted until 2002 when Turner filed for divorce, citing infidelity and financial issues. Rayna has one full sibling, Amir Tyson, born in August 1997. Their mother largely stepped away from the public eye but has remained active as COO of Debonair Attire, a fashion company she co-runs with Amir. Despite the challenges, Rayna’s family provided a blend of celebrity exposure and academic grounding that influenced their worldview.
Growing Up In The Spotlight As Mike Tyson’s Child
Being the child of a global icon like Mike Tyson came with a unique set of challenges. Though Rayna was not a public figure themselves, media interest in Mike Tyson often brought attention to his children. Unlike some celebrity kids who embraced the limelight, Rayna largely avoided it. They appeared alongside their father at a few events, like the 2009 screening of Tyson and the Cannes premiere of the same film, but rarely made headlines on their own. Rayna’s choice to live privately allowed them to navigate identity and adolescence without the constant pressure of public scrutiny, helping them build their own values and goals independent of the Tyson name.
Rayna Tyson’s Gender Identity And Personal Journey
Rayna identifies as transmasculine and nonbinary and uses they/them pronouns. Their journey of gender identity has been one of courage and self-awareness, especially given their father’s public profile and society’s frequent misunderstanding of trans issues. Though they have transitioned in private, they publicly affirmed their identity on social media and through interviews. Their choice to live authentically, even in the face of occasional media misgendering, reflects their strength. Rayna’s story resonates with many people in the LGBTQ+ community who are navigating their own identities under pressure. They’ve become an example of how self-love and expression can thrive, even in spaces that don’t always feel safe or welcoming.
Relationship With Mike Tyson
Rayna shares a bond with their father that has grown stronger over time. In interviews, they’ve acknowledged that while Mike Tyson once misgendered them in public, it wasn’t from a place of malice but misunderstanding. At the time, Rayna had not come out to their family. Still, Mike has shown support in various ways, including a touching Halloween post in 2020 where he praised Rayna (then referred to as Rayna) for dressing up as a boxer to honor him. Rayna also joined their father on set during the now-famous episode of Hotboxin’ with Mike Tyson, where Tyson confronted rapper Boosie Badazz about his transphobic comments. Though Rayna describes their relationship with Mike as not “super close,” there’s a clear thread of love, respect, and evolving understanding between them.
Education And Creative Path
Rayna Tyson pursued their passion for storytelling and visual expression by enrolling at New York University’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts. They were accepted in 2014 and graduated in 2018 with a degree in film. Tisch is known for producing creative visionaries, and Rayna flourished there, exploring film theory, production, and research. Their academic journey wasn’t just about technical skills—it also gave them a foundation to tell stories that matter. Their education reflects a desire not only to work in entertainment but to shape it with meaning and impact.
Career In The Film Industry
After graduation, Rayna began working behind the scenes in the film industry. One of their earliest projects included working as a research intern on the acclaimed Netflix documentary The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson, which investigates the suspicious death of the Black transgender activist and icon. Later, they joined the crew of Joker (2019), serving as a set staff assistant on the Oscar-winning film starring Joaquin Phoenix. These roles demonstrate Rayna’s interest in both mainstream cinema and socially conscious storytelling. Rather than seeking fame, they have chosen to contribute meaningfully to the narratives shaping our world.
Activism And LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Rayna Tyson is not only a creative force but also a committed activist. They advocate for transgender rights and visibility, particularly for trans youth. They’ve supported organizations like The Trevor Project, which provides crisis intervention for LGBTQ+ individuals, and “Trans Asylias,” a group that aids trans asylum seekers. Rayna’s voice adds valuable perspective to discussions around gender, often focusing on education, empathy, and inclusion. In 2020, they had a meaningful interaction with Boosie Badazz after their father’s podcast taping, explaining the difference between gender and sexuality to someone who had never encountered those concepts. Their ability to lead with patience and clarity shows a quiet but firm leadership style that sets them apart.
Public Moments And Media Attention
Although Rayna avoids the public eye, their name occasionally appears in the media—often through association with their father or trans-related discussions. One of the most talked-about moments was when Mike Tyson confronted rapper Boosie over his harmful comments about Dwyane Wade’s daughter, Zaya. Rayna was present in the studio and later clarified that their visit was coincidental. After the taping, they educated Boosie and his entourage on gender issues, highlighting how misinformation can lead to bigotry. While media outlets may focus on such viral moments, Rayna’s true impact lies in their quiet persistence and commitment to truth.
Personal Life And Interests
Rayna is currently in a loving relationship with a female-presenting partner who uses she/her pronouns. Their relationship is marked by openness and shared values. The couple has appeared in social media posts enjoying time with friends, often in relaxed settings like picnics. Rayna is also a proud pet parent to a cat named Basmati. They maintain a private life, with their Instagram account now set to private, indicating a desire for boundaries even as curiosity about their life grows. Their personal world is centered around authenticity, joy, and meaningful connection rather than public validation.
Where Rayna Tyson Is Today
As of 2025, Rayna continues to live a life away from the spotlight, working quietly in the film industry and supporting causes close to their heart. They’ve never used their father’s fame as a platform, instead choosing to forge their own identity. Whether through art, advocacy, or personal growth, Rayna represents a new kind of celebrity child—one who embraces honesty, compassion, and courage. Their journey is still unfolding, but what’s clear is that Rayna Tyson is someone who moves with purpose and pride, making a difference in ways that truly matter.
Final Thoughts
Rayna Tyson’s story is not just about being the child of a famous boxer—it’s about personal truth, creative ambition, and social impact. Through their identity, work, and values, they’ve shown that authenticity is powerful. Rayna has carved out a life that honors their roots while standing firmly in their own truth. In an age of oversharing and headlines, their choice to live with intention and privacy is a statement in itself. For those seeking to understand gender identity, resilience, or the complex relationship between fame and individuality, Rayna Tyson’s journey offers inspiration, clarity, and above all, hope.
FAQs About Rayna Tyson
Who Is Rayna Tyson?
Rayna Tyson, also known as Ramsey Tyson, is the transgender, nonbinary child of boxing legend Mike Tyson. They are known for their work in film and their advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.
What Pronouns Does Rayna Tyson Use?
Rayna uses they/them pronouns and identifies as transmasculine and nonbinary.
Is Rayna Tyson Involved In The Film Industry?
Yes, Rayna graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and has worked on projects like The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson and Joker.
What Is Rayna Tyson’s Relationship With Mike Tyson Like?
Rayna and Mike share a respectful bond. While there have been moments of misunderstanding, Mike has shown public support, and their relationship continues to grow.
Is Rayna Tyson Public About Their Identity?
Rayna has publicly affirmed their identity on social media and through interviews but generally prefers to keep their life private.
What Causes Does Rayna Tyson Support?
Rayna supports organizations like The Trevor Project, Black Lives Matter, and Trans Asylias, focusing on LGBTQ+ rights and trans asylum seekers.
What Is Rayna Tyson Doing Now?
As of 2025, Rayna continues to work behind the scenes in the film industry and remains engaged in activism and advocacy, living a private but impactful life.
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