Heavyweight great Mike Tyson shared his thoughts on the boxing ability of former rival Jake Paul ahead of his exhibition with Gervonta Davis.
‘Iron Mike’ made a controversial return to the ring after a near 20-year retirement last November, suffering a unanimous decision defeat to Paul at the conclusion of their 8-round heavyweight bout at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Speaking in a social media post shortly after his clash with Paul, Tyson reflected on making his comeback to the sport against the former Youtube star, who he branded ‘a talented fighter’.
“This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time. I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won. To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for. Thank you.”
Tyson also had praise for Paul’s power, saying he was sore for days after the fight – though that could have had more to do with his advancing years.
Whilst Paul has received intense criticism throughout the course of his professional boxing career, the 28-year-old from Ohio remains set on pushing towards a shot at a legitimate world title in the near future. Facing Davis, whilst big for his profile, does little for that pursuit.
