UNIONDALE, NY — On March 10, 1986, the rising force of the heavyweight division, 19-year-old Mike Tyson, continued his path of destruction at the Nassau Coliseum, dispatching experienced journeyman Steve Zouski via third-round knockout. Though it wasn’t Tyson’s most explosive outing, it marked his 19th straight win — and 19th knockout — in just over a year as a professional.

Zouski (25-10, 14 KOs), a battle-worn 31-year-old with a reputation for durability, entered the ring having never been knocked off his feet. That changed at 2:39 of Round 3 when Tyson uncorked a vicious left hook that sent Zouski crashing face-first to the canvas, ending the bout decisively.

Tyson (220.5 lbs), fighting at his heaviest to date, opened with deliberate bodywork in the first round, backing Zouski up while probing with short bursts of power. Zouski, carrying 210 lbs and a modest jab, managed to land a few counters — even targeting a swollen left ear Tyson had injured days prior.

The second round saw the young contender pick up steam. A quick-fire combination near the two-minute mark stunned Zouski and left visible swelling under his left eye. Despite the punishment, Zouski hung tough and kept moving, showing heart even as the tide turned firmly against him.

Round 3 was the breaking point. After a slow start, Tyson began stalking with intent. A sequence of uppercuts dazed Zouski, sending him reeling into the ropes. Sensing the finish, Tyson unleashed a punishing right uppercut followed by a devastating left hook. Zouski collapsed, and although he beat the count, referee Arthur Mercante ruled the knockout at 2:39.

This win elevated Tyson to 19-0 (19 KOs) and further cemented his reputation as the heavyweight division’s most dangerous young threat. Despite the emphatic finish, Tyson was critical of his performance, hinting at personal struggles outside the ring and calling the bout one of his less impressive showings.

Zouski, who had lost seven of his last nine entering the fight, showed grit but simply couldn’t keep pace with Tyson’s speed and power.

Next up for “Iron Mike” is a tougher test against James Tillis on May 3 — a step up that will offer more insight into just how far the young phenom can go.