By Keith Idec
In a remarkable turnaround, Mike Tyson showcased a striking transformation on Monday, becoming the composed and rational figure in the room, a stark contrast to the infamous incident where he bit Lennox Lewis’ leg and made disturbing threats towards a male reporter, which took place twenty-two years ago in Manhattan.
Tyson and Jake Paul were approached by a young child who used inappropriate language to refer to them as “fucking legends” and inquired about their respective “body counts.” In a lighthearted manner, the ex-heavyweight champion, who has undergone a transformation, responded by humorously questioning the whereabouts of the child’s mother.
Contrary to expectations, the remainder of their press conference held at the legendary Apollo Theater in Harlem turned out to be quite calm, lacking the anticipated chaotic and extravagant atmosphere.
During their discussion about their upcoming eight-round heavyweight fight, Tyson, aged 57, and Paul, aged 27, consistently conveyed admiration for one another. In fact, Tyson went as far as acknowledging their friendship. However, the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history assured skeptics that he would genuinely attempt to knock out the controversial Paul during their match on July 20 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Tyson expressed, “I have a strong admiration for Jake. However, when he steps into the ring, he must fight with utmost intensity as if his life hangs in the balance, because it truly does.”
The question of who was insistent on wearing 14-ounce gloves, which are more padded than the usual 10-ounce gloves for heavyweight boxing matches, remained unanswered by both fighters. However, Tyson admitted that he advocated for two-minute rounds, which could potentially benefit the aging fighter who will be 58 by the night of the fight.
Tyson expressed his preference for shorter rounds, stating that he desired increased action. According to him, having only two minutes would result in more fighting and consequently, more action.
Paul, with a record of 9 wins, 1 loss, and 6 knockout victories, has always fought in the cruiserweight division, which has a weight limit of 200 pounds. However, he plans to step into the ring weighing somewhere between 230 and 240 pounds to face Tyson. Despite agreeing to fight in Tyson’s weight class, Paul acknowledges the fact that Tyson, a retired legend who is 30 years older than him, was open to the idea of facing a younger opponent in his physical prime.
According to Paul, it was Tyson’s team who reached out a few weeks after signing their contracts, insisting that this fight should be more than just an exhibition and should be officially recorded on the records of both boxers.
Paul said, “He was ready for this challenge. It’s something he’s desired for a while. We’ve been challenging each other for years, and now we have the opportunity to make it a reality on Netflix, the largest platform globally. The magnitude of this event keeps growing, and it’s incredible. I mean, just look at the co-main event, the Katie Taylor-Amanda Serrano rematch – it’s a historic moment.”
Mike desired a professional fight and yearned for a battle. I admire his determination and the fact that he is willing to step up and confront me, as all these fighters have been attempting to do – to bring an end to the YouTuber. If Mike manages to achieve that, he will be hailed as a hero, and I hold great respect for him and his decision to take on this challenge.
Things are getting serious: The latest news involves Jake Paul and Mike Tyson.
Tyson, hailing from Brooklyn, engaged in an exhibition match with the renowned Roy Jones Jr. over three years ago. However, in terms of official fights, Tyson’s last one took place in June 2005 at the MCI Center in Washington, D.C. It was against the massive underdog Kevin McBride, who managed to make Tyson surrender on his stool after the sixth round.
Regardless, Netflix’s incomparable worldwide reach might make the streaming service’s first foray into live combat sports the most watched boxing match of the 21st century.
Paul expressed his belief that many individuals perceive him as arrogant and unpleasant, acknowledging that this perception may hold some truth. Nevertheless, he clarified that his primary intention is to enjoy himself and provide entertainment to a global audience. Paul also noted that while the older generation may wish for his defeat at the hands of Mike, he has garnered support from younger demographics such as children, middle schoolers, high schoolers, and college students who are eager to witness his triumph over Mike.
