Ohtani swept the ESPYs: , winning both **Best Single-Game Performance** and **Best MLB Player** at the 2026 ceremony.
The winning performance came in Game 4 of the 2025 NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers, where Ohtani hit 3 home runs and pitched 6 scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts — a postseason feat never before accomplished.
Mike Tyson: presented the award alongside **Jake Paul** and **DJ Khaled**. After reading Ohtani's name, Tyson turned to Paul and asked, *"Shohei's a guy?"* — completely unaware that the two-way phenom is male.
Jake Paul confirmed: *"Yeah, he's a guy. He's a guy."*
Why this matters:: The moment underscores Ohtani's unique global crossover appeal. Even one of the most recognizable figures in sports history, Mike Tyson, was unfamiliar with Ohtani — proof that Ohtani's legend transcends traditional baseball fandom and is still growing.
Ohtani was not in attendance at the ceremony. He recently withdrew from the 2026 MLB All-Star Game due to left knee irritation, though he continues to produce elite numbers this season: .298 batting average, 22 home runs, 58 RBIs, and an 8-2 record on the mound.
Shohei Ohtani's Game 4 of the 2025 NLCS is already being called one of the greatest single-game performances in baseball history. Serving as the Dodgers' starting pitcher, he issued a leadoff walk before striking out the side in the first inning. At the plate, he crushed a leadoff home run to ignite the scoring. By the end of the night, Ohtani had:
6 scoreless innings: pitched with **10 strikeouts**
3 home runs: — the 13th three-homer performance in postseason history
NLCS MVP honors: as the Dodgers marched toward their second consecutive World Series championship
He became the first pitcher in postseason history to hit a leadoff home run and the first pitcher ever to hit multiple home runs in a postseason game.
The ceremony took an unexpected comedic turn when Mike Tyson, reading from the teleprompter, proudly announced Ohtani's name — then immediately turned to Jake Paul with genuine bewilderment. *"Shohei's a guy?"* Tyson asked, his voice reflecting pure surprise. Paul's deadpan response — *"Yeah, he's a guy"* — only amplified the moment's humor.
Critics on social media were quick to note that Tyson is not a baseball fan, but the exchange highlighted just how massive Ohtani's brand has become outside of traditional sports circles. Compiled by Yanuki using the latest trends and data, this moment generated millions of views across platforms within hours.
Despite missing the All-Star Game this week due to knee inflammation, Ohtani remains the Dodgers' most valuable asset. Through 88 games:
| Category | Batting | Pitching |
|----------|---------|----------|
| Hits / Runs | 98 H, 65 R | 55 H allowed |
| Home Runs / ERA | 22 HR | 2.19 ERA |
| RBIs / Strikeouts | 58 RBI | 95 K |
| Record | — | 8-2 |
The knee issue has impacted his pitching mechanics, but he continues to produce at an MVP-caliber level for a Dodgers team chasing a third straight World Series title.
What did Shohei Ohtani do to win the ESPY for Best Single-Game Performance?
He hit three home runs and pitched six scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts in Game 4 of the 2025 NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers — a historic postseason performance that had never been done before.
Why didn't Mike Tyson know Shohei Ohtani was a man?
Tyson admitted he isn't a baseball fan and was genuinely surprised when he read Ohtani's name on the teleprompter. He immediately asked Jake Paul for clarification on stage.
Did Shohei Ohtani attend the 2026 ESPYs?
No, Ohtani was not in attendance. He sent his gratitude and appreciation through Jake Paul, who accepted on his behalf.
Why did Ohtani miss the 2026 MLB All-Star Game?
He withdrew due to inflammation and irritation in his left knee, which also affected his pitching mechanics. He was pulled from a scheduled start shortly before the break.
How many ESPY awards did Ohtani win this year?
He won two: Best Single-Game Performance and Best MLB Player.
For baseball fans:: Ohtani's 2025 NLCS Game 4 is now enshrined in ESPY history. If you haven't watched the full highlights, they are a must-see for any sports enthusiast.
For casual viewers:: The Mike Tyson moment is a reminder that Ohtani's fame is expanding rapidly beyond baseball. Expect more crossover moments as his legacy grows.
For Dodgers supporters:: Ohtani is managing a knee issue but remains elite. Keep an eye on his recovery as the postseason approaches — the Dodgers are aiming for a three-peat.
What to watch:: With Ohtani missing the All-Star Game, the focus now shifts to his return to the mound and whether he can maintain MVP form for the stretch run.
Do you think Mike Tyson's reaction was genuine or played up for the cameras? And does Ohtani's 2025 NLCS Game 4 rank among the greatest postseason performances of all time? Let us know in the comments!
Share this article with fellow baseball fans who might have missed this unforgettable ESPY moment. Whether you're here for the history or the comedy, this is a night that won't be forgotten.
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