Jake Paul, 27, coasted to a points victory over 58-year-old Mike Tyson in Arlington, Texas.
The fight – which was initially postponed due to medial issues on Tyson’s part – drew considerable criticism for the dangers it could pose to the former undisputed heavyweight champion, who retired back in 2005 on back-to-back losses.
With a reported gate of $17.8 million – the combat sports record for the state of Texas – and the backing of Netflix and its giant subscriber base, there is no question the event got people watching for one reason or another. Would the action match the promotion? Would those in the sport who believed it to be an exhibition despite the soft pro rules be proved correct?
There was little thrown in the first with Paul out-landing by one or two shots. It was slow-paced and Tyson’s condition prevented him on capitalising on opportunities he once could have. Despite glimpses of his old head movement, his legs were heavy and the feet always one step behind what he was telling them to do.
Even less went down in the second. Tyson came out fast in the third but Paul landed left hook after left hook in some sad scenes, wobbling the once youngest heavyweight champion of the world. ‘Iron’ Mike’s legs continued to betray him and his power shots lacked any pop, taking any jeopardy out of the event for Paul, who was surely considering coasting rather than pushing for any sort of stoppage.
Nothing of note happened and the younger man did indeed hold back. The pair embraced on the final bell. Fans learned nothing about Paul’s ability as a boxer and had it confirmed that Tyson is not superhuman. A main event that was all sizzle and no sausage, but thankfully without any serious harm. Tyson, pushed on a decision on retiring again, said he would consider fighting Jake’s brother Logan. Fans will pray nothing comes of that.
