Mike Tyson will always know how to sell a fight and he’s proved that once more ahead of his controversial bout with Jake Paul.
The 58-year-old former heavyweight champion has ignored worries from many in the sport to take on Paul, 27, over eight two-minute rounds in Texas.
Some believe that the fight, despite being sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations, will be more akin to an exhibition, but ‘Iron’ Mike did everything he could to disprove that at the weigh in when he slapped Paul forcefully across the face.
Roy Jones Jr – who was the last man to share the ring with Tyson in a 2020 exhibition – was in attendance and gave his reaction to Fight Hub TV.
“That’s vintage Mike.”
Vintage Mike indeed – the knockout puncher from Brownsville, Brooklyn was involved in many lively press conferences in his time, including a brawl with Lennox Lewis that saw his license in Nevada revoked and the fight moved to Memphis.
Multi-weight world champion Jones then revealed why he was ‘glad’ to see it happen.
“I was glad to see it because it means Mike ain’t out here just going through the motions, he’s serious about it. I liked it. [His energy was calm] until now. And the fact that he came out now, I’m glad to see it because if I hadn’t I would be worried this fight may not even be for real.”
As for a prediction, Jones is picking Tyson early or Paul late.
“Two minutes are good for Mike but Jake’s gonna get stronger as the fight goes because he’s the younger guy. So I think Jake’s is smart to go out there and probably try to box Mike early but keep his distance. If he can get Mike a little fatigued, make Mike lose his legs a little bit and try to get him … If Jake comes out at him right away [it won’t go three rounds] cause Mike will knock him out.”
The event, which has a great chief support fight in Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 2, will be streamed live on Netflix from the AT&T Stadium, Texas.
