Tyson, approaching 60 years old, is a former heavyweight champion who retired over two decades ago. His opponent, Jake Paul, is a YouTuber turned boxer with just nine professional fights under his belt. The match-up has raised eyebrows due to the significant age gap and experience level between the two.
This isn't the first time the bout has been scheduled. The fight was previously called off when Tyson pulled out due to an ulcer issue. Recent sightings of Tyson walking with a cane have also fueled concerns about his fitness for the fight.
Paul, while less experienced, has been more active in the ring recently. He's notched wins against older fighters and mixed martial artists, including Mike Perry, Nate Diaz, Ryan Bourland, and Anderson Silva. However, he suffered his first professional loss to Tommy Fury in 2023.
Roy Jones Jr., who fought Tyson in a 2022 exhibition, shared his thoughts on the upcoming match. In an interview, he said:
"Mike Tyson still the strongest puncher that I've ever been in the ring with. Ever. At 55 at the time, now I think 57 might be 58, he's still the strongest puncher. First time he hit me in my chin I feel like a mule had kicked me in my chest."
Jones added, "The first time he hit anybody with power like that they going out or they going down, especially guys who ain't used to being hit like that. Jake Paul, I don't think he's gonna be able to take Mike hitting him on the chin like that."
Tyson's reputation as a knockout artist precedes him. In his prime, he beat his first 18 opponents inside six rounds, earning a reputation as one of boxing's most feared punchers.
The match has stirred up controversy due to the vast differences between the fighters. Tyson had previously stated he would never fight Paul out of respect for him and his family, making this announcement even more surprising.
As the fight date approaches, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how this unusual matchup unfolds in the ring.