In what is probably the most shocking announcement of 2024 Iron Mike Tyson is set to face Youtuber turned boxer Jake Paul.
The AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas plays host to “The Problem Child,” and “Iron,” Mike Tyson (50-6) who are set to face off in a bizarre match up on the 20th of July. With streaming giants Netflix hosting the global event. If nothing else the event promises to be a spectacle.
The Fight: Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson
The former Disney Channel star Jake Paul made the leap into the boxing world fighting retired UFC fighter Ben Askren. Since then he has racked up nine wins against varying opposition, most famously Tommy Fury, who is the only person to defeat Paul. In his last outing he fought relatively unknown fighter Ryan Bourland (17-3) knocking him out in the first round. Albeit, Bourland had not fought in over eighteen months and did not look good on the scales prior to the fight.
Legend of the sport Mike Tyson has not fought since his exhibition against fellow all time great Roy Jones Jr in 2020. The fight ended in a draw. Paul featured on the undercard of this fight, knocking out former NBA star Nate Robinson. Tyson has not fought professionally since 2005. Where he was defeated via sixth round knockout by Irish fighter Kevin McBride.
Pros and Cons of Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson
Apart from the obvious financial gain, it is difficult to see what both fighters set to gain out making this fight. Tyson might be an all time legend, but he is 57 years old and has not looked competitive in a fight for decades. Paul who has aspirations of winning a legitimate world title stated on his Instagram post announcing the fight that, ” I have a chance to prove myself against the greatest champion of the world. The baddest man on the planet and the most dangerous fighter of all time. Time to put Iron Mike to sleep.”
Whilst Paul will most certainly be the favourite in the fight, almost entirely down to age and activeness. if he does beat Mike Tyson he is likely to receive little applaud from fight fans and pundits. Who are likely to give “The Problem Child,” more criticism for fight fighting older retired fighters. Rather then an active prospect.
Reactions:
The fight has received a mixed reaction from fans and boxers alike. With many fans taking to X to criticise the fight. Fans and pundits pointing out the significant age gap and others telling Jake Paul he should be shamed of himself. Mike Tyson’s last opponent in a competitive fight Kevin McBride has backed Tyson to knock Jake Paul out. Eddie Hearn speaking to FightHubTV also slammed the fight, stating he finds the fight “very sad.”
Other legends of boxing such as Manny Pacquiao does not give Jake Paul much hope in the fight. When asked if he believes Paul can be beat Tyson, he simply responded, no. Its not just boxing stars that have slammed the fight. Former UFC Middleweight Champion Michael Bisping took to X to share his disappointment in the announcement. “You should be ashamed of yourself. And the biggest joke is you don’t even slightly realise why.” Dillion Danis also weighed in on the fight. Stating “You’re fighting someone who was in 1966. Have some shame.”
Whilst some fans have congratulated Paul for securing the fight Others have called for Mike Tyson to repeat his antics from the second fight with Evander Holyfield, which led to Holyfield almost losing half an ear. All joking aside, this fight has the potential to be the most dangerous of Mike’s illustrious career. With his age and unlikelihood that Paul will not take it easy on the former Undisputed Heavyweight Champion.
The Reality:
There is a potential we could see a disaster in the ring. A criticism long been associated with the rise of YouTube and Influencer boxing. On the other hand they do say the last thing to leave a fighter is power. Something that Mike Tyson was never lacking. Leaving the possibility that Jake Paul could have cherry picked the wrong opponent and may find himself on the end of a famous Tyson left uppercut.
If Jake Paul does win the fight. It is difficult to see how this brings him any closer to his dream fight with “Saul Canelo” Alvarez. A lot can happen between now and July and it could be unlikely the fight goes ahead.
Who wins Mike Tyson or Jake Paul? Leave you comments below!
