Roy Jones Jr was the last man to share a ring with Mike Tyson.
The multi-weight world champion took part in an exhibition with ‘Iron’ Mike back in 2020, billed ‘Lockdown Knockdown.’ It was, as most exhibitions will be, scored a draw, but most felt Tyson was the winner and the punch stats suggest the same.
Looking back on the fight in an interview with Shane Mosley, Jones said Tyson was the hardest puncher he has ever faced.
“Mike Tyson still the strongest puncher that I’ve ever been in the ring with. Ever. At 55 at the time, now I think 57 might be 58, he’s still the strongest puncher. First time he hit me in my chin I feel like a mule had kicked me in my chest.”
The event was well received and a good example of how exhibitions featuring retired fighters can be entertaining rather than sad. The undercard featured one Jake Paul, who will go a step further and face Tyson in a professional bout – albeit with softer rules – this coming November. The plans have received considerable criticism given the 30-year age gap.
Still, Jones warned Paul that he won’t be able to stay away from the former undisputed heavyweight champion and will be forced to engage. It’s something he feels the YouTuber-turner-fighter has bulked up in preparation for.
“If he’s at 230 that can make it very interesting … Jake’s not gonna fight close, and he can’t stay away from him cause Mike will close the gap too quick. I thought I could stay away from him, I couldn’t – and I know I’m better at staying away from people than Jake is.
That’s why Jake put the weight on, cause he knows he’s not gonna be able to stay away from him. He’s hoping he’ll be muscly enough to push him backwards and keep him off him, but he won’t be able to stay away from him.”
Asked if Tyson was too old to get close, or if Paul’s youth will allow him to push the 58-year-old back, Jones said no.
“None of that’s the case … If you can push him back and you’re big enough that’s a good idea cause he doesn’t fight as well going back as going forwards … but you’ve never been hit like that before, so we’ve got to see.”
Paul-Tyson takes place at the AT&T Stadium in Texas on November 15 and will be streamed on Netflix.
