Mike Tyson has decided to hang up his gloves for good after his recent bout with Jake Paul. The 58-year-old boxing legend made the announcement on social media last week, following his loss to the YouTuber-turned-boxer at Dallas Cowboys stadium.
Paul got the better of 'Iron Mike' over eight rounds, with the judges giving him a unanimous decision win. ESPN reported that Paul was in control for most of the fight.
Right after the match, Tyson hinted at future fights. In his post-fight interview, he said:
"I don't think so [that this is my last time in the ring]. I have more in me. Maybe I'll fight his brother [Logan Paul]."
But Tyson changed his mind. He later posted on social media:
"This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I'm grateful. No regrets to get in ring one last time."
The fight wasn't easy to make. It was originally set for July but got pushed back. Tyson faced serious health issues in June. He nearly died, needed eight blood transfusions, lost half his blood, and dropped 25 pounds in the hospital. He had to fight hard just to get healthy enough to box.
Despite the loss, Tyson found a silver lining. He said:
"To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for."
This bout marks the end of Tyson's long career in the ring. His last professional fight was way back in 2005, nearly two decades ago.
As for Jake Paul, he's already eyeing his next challenge. He wants to step into the ring with Canelo Alvarez. Alvarez has set one condition for the fight to happen, but the details of that condition haven't been shared yet.
