Frank Warren reveals health fears for Mike Tyson with boxing promoter set to boycott Jake Paul fight
Frank Warren has admitted he’s worried about Mike Tyson as the veteran prepares for his boxing comeback against Jake Paul on Friday.
And the legendary promoter has also revealed that he won’t be staying up to watch the action unfold, too.
Tyson and Paul confirmed they would be fighting back in March, with many figures associated with the sport hitting out at the pair.
There is a huge 31-year age gap between the two men, with some worried that Tyson could suffer serious damage as a result.
Warren, writing in his column for the Daily Star, has now delivered his verdict.
He admits he finds it ‘madness’ that Tyson, at the age of 58, is preparing for a bout against a 27-year-old.
And Warren has also revealed that he won’t be staying up to watch the showdown as well, despite millions being expected to tune in.
“I’ve worked with Paul and he is a very shrewd businessman along with his team and they were a pleasure to deal with,” he said.
“Paul has garnered more respect in the fight game than other YouTube and social media stars because he’s got himself licensed and fought a boxer like Tommy Fury.
“But he’s fighting a 58-year-old man next Friday night in Texas and it shouldn’t be happening.
“Tyson is a legend of the sport but he’s now an old man who should no longer be in the ring.
“A man of his age should not be taking punches to the head. Even if it is with bigger gloves, over eight two-minute rounds.”
Warren continued: “If Tyson wins then it doesn’t mean much.
“He’s going to struggle after the first round or two unless he still has his power and catches Paul.
“The numbers will be huge. The world has gone mad. It’s not just a fight, it’s a huge TV production like reality TV.
“They’re drawing eyeballs and a lot of people will watch it because of Paul’s following and lots of people will watch it because Mike Tyson is Mike Tyson.
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“As a business proposition it ticks all the boxes. For the health of a 58-year-old man it is madness.
“Will I watch it? I won’t be staying up for it that’s for sure. But I’m probably not their target audience.”
Tyson established himself as a boxing icon during his prime years.
His career ended on a low, however, with the heavyweight star losing to Danny Williams and Kevin McBride before hanging up his gloves in 2005.
Tyson’s last fight was four years ago when he drew an exhibition clash with Roy Jones Jr.
As for Paul, the 27-year-old has won 10 of his 11 bouts – with his latest victory coming against Mike Perry on July 20.