Mike Tyson Set to Make Comeback Against Jake Paul Amidst Widespread Criticism
Nearly four decades after his professional debut and 19 years since his retirement, 58-year-old Mike Tyson is preparing to return to the boxing ring. The former heavyweight titan, known for his fearsome dominance in the late 1980s, is slated to face YouTuber Jake Paul, 27, in a Netflix-sponsored bout at Arlington, Texas’s AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys.
Initially scheduled for July, the fight was postponed due to a medical emergency Tyson experienced, where he vomited blood mid-flight from Miami to Los Angeles, attributed to a bleeding ulcer. This incident has fueled criticism from those in the boxing community, who regard the upcoming match as a reckless showcase that puts Tyson’s health at significant risk. Tyson’s last appearance in a professional match occurred in 2005, when he suffered a technical knockout at the hands of journeyman Kevin McBride.
Eddie Hearn, a prominent British fight promoter, shared strong reservations about the fight, stating, “Twenty years ago, Mike Tyson retired from boxing and was shot to pieces, right? I mean, completely shot. If anyone thinks that Mike Tyson should be in a ring at this age, you either have absolutely no emotional feelings toward the man, or you’re an idiot. It shouldn’t be happening.” Frank Warren, a rival promoter, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation. “Mike Tyson is 58 years of age and he shouldn’t be fighting. It’s as simple as that. Anyone with an ounce of brains knows that it is ridiculous.”
Despite the backlash, Tyson maintains a defiant attitude, downplaying fears about his health. He suggested that critics are driven by envy, stating, “I’m beautiful, that’s all I can say. The people who said that wish they were up here. No one else can do this.” At a recent workout in Texas, Tyson expressed confidence, saying, “I’m tougher than I believed I was,” and described the fight as a celebration after his rigorous training.
As anticipation builds for the contest, which is expected to draw millions of viewers on Netflix and a live audience of tens of thousands, questions remain about Tyson’s capabilities in the ring. Paul, who rose to fame as a YouTuber before venturing into boxing, is confident ahead of the fight, claiming he feels “sharp, powerful, and explosive,” predicting a quick finish against Tyson.
Echoing the doubts surrounding Tyson’s ability is legendary boxing promoter Bob Arum, who stated, “A 58-year-old guy, no matter how good they were, no matter how athletic they were, are not gonna be able to fight. You can’t throw punches like you’re supposed to. I hope Mike doesn’t get hurt, but I really give him relatively no chance.”
As Tyson prepares for this unprecedented return, the boxing world watches closely, balancing fascination with concern for the future of the former champion.
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