Mike Tyson returns to the boxing ring in a matter of weeks to face brash YouTuber-turned-fighter Jake Paul.
Just under two decades on from hanging up the gloves, the former undisputed heavyweight champion steps back through the ropes to face a man thirty years his junior. The controversial bout has received backlash from many in the sport for the risks it poses.
That was clear when the fight was initially postponed due to a medical issue on Tyson’s part and Mike Perry, former UFC competitor, stepped in. He was stopped inside six rounds.
After the defeat, Perry joined Paul on his podcast where he predicted he would win.
“I think you [Jake] win. I think you’re younger and I think you’re doing the right things as far as what your team has you doing, it works.
I wasn’t able to add anything up on you, I wasn’t able to have you punch yourself out, I wasn’t able to get you on the ropes where I could release a flurry and at 58, Mike’s age is something I’m thinking about. I think you get that.”
However, in an interview with the Overdogs podcast three months later, the bareknuckle fighter – who has since run into trouble outside the ropes – agreed with Roy Jones Jr assessment that Tyson wins.
“I think Mike, too. I think Mike’s gonna be just like… It’s like riding a bike for him. I mean you guys looked great when you guys fought. A lot of experience in that ring. He’s a lot smarter than I am for sure when it comes to boxing technique. He’s not gonna feel overwhelmed to try and push the action. That’s gonna be interesting to see.”
