By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-03-07 16:49:14
Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson is set to make a return to the boxing ring in an exhibition bout against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The fight will be screened on Netflix and take place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on July 20, as announced by Netflix and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP).
At 57 years old, Tyson will be facing off against Paul, who is 30 years his junior. Tyson expressed his excitement about the match, acknowledging Paul’s growth as a boxer over the years. He commended Paul’s performances in his boxing career and looks forward to the challenge of facing a younger opponent. Tyson stated, “He’s grown significantly as a boxer over the years, so it will be a lot of fun to see what the will and ambition of a ‘kid’ can do with the experience and aptitude of a GOAT.”
The upcoming fight comes after Paul fought on the undercard of Tyson’s last exhibition bout against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020. Tyson humorously mentioned that he started Paul’s boxing journey on the undercard of that fight and now plans to finish him in their upcoming match.
The Tyson-Paul exhibition bout is part of a growing trend in recent years that sees internet celebrities stepping into the boxing ring against each other or established boxers, often retired or past their prime. Jake Paul’s brother, Logan Paul, has also been involved in this trend, fighting boxing legend Floyd Mayweather in 2021. Jake Paul, however, has emerged as a significant draw in the boxing world, boasting a record of 9-1 with six knockouts. He recently secured victories against professional boxers Ryan Bourland and Andre August.
Mike Tyson’s legacy in boxing is well-known, as he was once regarded as one of the most ferocious heavyweight boxers in history. Tyson held the undisputed championship between 1987 and 1990 and became the youngest heavyweight champion in history when he won his first belt at the age of 20 years, four months, and 22 days.
The Tyson-Paul exhibition match promises to be an intriguing clash between the experience and skill of a boxing legend and the youth and ambition of a rising star in the sport. With both fighters eager to prove themselves in the ring, fans can expect an exciting showdown when they meet in July.
