Mike Tyson told he ‘doesn’t want to fight’ Jake Paul as concerns arise
The highly anticipated bout between boxing legend Mike Tyson and YouTube sensation Jake Paul has been rescheduled for 15 November at the AT&T Stadium in Texas.
The fight, initially set for July, was postponed due to health concerns after Tyson, 58, experienced an ulcer flare-up.
The event is expected to draw up to 90,000 spectators to the iconic Dallas Cowboys venue.
However, the matchup has sparked debate within the boxing community, with some questioning its legitimacy and others expressing concern for Tyson’s well-being given his advanced age.
Cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez has dismissed the upcoming Tyson-Paul clash as mere entertainment.
Speaking to The Mirror, Ramirez said: “It’s a business in entertaining fights. That’s all. I mean, I don’t think they want to fight, like, a real fight.
“Because Mike Tyson is getting old and is not in his prime. And the other guy is in his prime.”
Ramirez’s comments highlight the stark contrast between the two fighters, with Tyson last competing professionally in 2005, while Paul, at 27, has been actively boxing since his professional debut four years ago.
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Despite concerns surrounding the fight, former Tyson trainer Jeff Fenech believes the bout could end swiftly in Tyson’s favour.
Speaking to Mirror Fighting, Fenech stated: “If Mike concentrates and makes him miss, and then makes him pay… That’s what Mike’s an expert in, he’s got great head movement.”
He added: “If he does that in 30 seconds, the fight could be over in 30 seconds.
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“Mike just needs to use his common sense, don’t try to punch when he’s punching, make him miss and make him pay.”
Fenech emphasised Paul’s lack of boxing knowledge, suggesting he may struggle against Tyson’s defensive skills and counter-punching ability.
The fight has drawn criticism from prominent figures in boxing.
Promoter Eddie Hearn expressed concern for Tyson’s health, telling The Mirror: “The reality is that 20 years ago when Mike Tyson retired from the sport he was shot, completely finished.”
Hearn also questioned Paul’s involvement, stating: “If I was Jake Paul I’d just feel a little bit embarrassed to be honest with you.”
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Doubts have also been raised about Tyson’s training regimen. In a recent interview with Jimmy Kimmel, Tyson claimed to train six hours daily, starting at 11am.
This assertion was met with scepticism, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding the fight’s legitimacy and safety concerns.