Mike Tyson, at 58 years old, will step back into the boxing ring to face Jake Paul, a 27-year-old YouTuber-turned-fighter. The match is set for November 15 at AT&T; Stadium in Texas and will be streamed live on Netflix.
The bout has stirred up controversy in the boxing world. Tyson, who retired in 2005 after back-to-back losses, will face an opponent less than half his age. The former heavyweight champion hasn't fought professionally in nearly two decades.
Jake Paul, known for his YouTube career, has ventured into boxing with mixed results. He's faced mostly retired UFC fighters and suffered his only loss against Tommy Fury. Now, he'll square off against one of boxing's most iconic figures.
The fight will consist of eight two-minute rounds, with both fighters wearing 14-ounce gloves. Netflix will also air a three-part series leading up to the main event.
Lennox Lewis, who knocked out Tyson in 2002, shared his thoughts on the upcoming fight with Sky Sports:
"At first, I thought Jake Paul was gonna be in trouble. Mike Tyson knows how to throw great body punches, great head shots. It's a task. It's hard to box when you're that old, moving around the ring, throwing punches, getting punches thrown at you. But I think he can handle it."
Lewis predicted how the fight might unfold:
"Mike Tyson just kind of cutting off the ring. Throwing body and head blows when he can catch up to Jake Paul. I'm sure Jake Paul will be moving fast, moving around the ring. He's not gonna want to stand there and get hit by Mike Tyson."
The former champ also confirmed he'll attend the event, saying, "I'll be there. It's gonna be exciting."
Many in the boxing community have advised against this matchup for Tyson. The 58-year-old became the youngest heavyweight champion 38 years ago, and concerns about his age and time away from the sport are prevalent.
As the fight date approaches, all eyes will be on this unconventional pairing of a boxing legend and a social media star turned fighter.
