Jake Paul, the YouTube sensation turned professional boxer, is gearing up for one of the most anticipated boxing matches of the year against the legendary Mike Tyson. Despite the 30-year age difference between the two fighters, Paul has made it clear that he will “absolutely not” hold back in the ring when they face off on July 20 at Texas’ AT&T Stadium.
Paul, who has only ten professional fights under his belt, has quickly risen in the boxing world, but his upcoming match against Tyson, a former world heavyweight champion who retired nearly two decades ago, has sparked considerable debate. While boxing legends like Lennox Lewis and Tyson Fury have voiced their support for the event, others such as Carl Froch and Oscar De La Hoya have expressed skepticism.
The fight has been officially sanctioned by the Texan authorities and will count towards both fighters’ professional records. Paul has vowed to approach the match with the same ferocity and determination as his opponent. “Mike Tyson is a killer. He’s ruthless. He’s the most vicious champion ever. So, I have to channel that Mike Tyson energy to finish him. And the legend must fall,” Paul stated. He emphasized that despite his respect and admiration for Tyson, he is fully prepared to knock out the veteran fighter “in an embarrassing fashion.”
“So, I have to reciprocate that same energy,” Paul explained, acknowledging Tyson’s formidable reputation. “I love Mike. I’m super respectful of him. It’s an honor to be in the ring with him. But I have to end him,” he said last month, adding, “It’s war. All is fair in love and war. I love the guy, but as soon as it turned into a pro fight, one of us has to die.”
Tyson, for his part, has spoken highly of Paul, particularly in the Netflix documentary “Untold: Jake Paul the Problem Child.” Tyson praised Paul for his contributions to the sport, stating, “We got to keep this guy bright because he’s going to save boxing as long as he continues to fight. He got the light, you know what I mean? He’s touched. He got the light.”
As the fight date approaches, the boxing community remains divided on the potential outcome. However, one thing is certain: the clash between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson is set to be a monumental event, drawing attention from fans and critics alike. Whether Paul can stand up to Tyson’s legendary prowess or if the veteran will demonstrate his enduring skill remains to be seen, but both fighters are preparing for an intense and unforgettable showdown.