Mike Tyson was once the world’s greatest boxer.
However, he’s 57 now and is more famous for entertainment (through Mike Tyson Mysteries and The Hangover movies) than boxing.
So, many are concerned about his wellbeing after Tyson announced his return to boxing.
According to Deadline, Mike Tyson will fight YouTuber Jake Paul on July 20.
Why Are People Concerned About Mike Tyson’s Upcoming Fight?
For starters, this isn’t an exhibition fight.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations has commissioned it as a professional fight.
Secondly, the age difference is huge.
While Tyson is 57, Jake Paul is only 27.
Even though Paul hasn’t fought the world’s top boxers, he still has a respectable 9-1 career record, with six knockouts against average fighters and celebrities.
Paul’s only loss was a split decision to Tommy Fury, Tyson Fury’s brother.
While Mike Tyson’s record stands at 50-6 with 44 knockouts, his peers are concerned about the upcoming fight.
Deontay Wilder is one of those concerned voices.
“I don’t want the last thing I remember of him is him getting knocked out by a YouTuber. The last thing you do, that’s what people remember you by.”
Wilder added that he doesn’t think people care about the legendary boxer’s well-being.
“I think it’s bad the commission has licensed Mike Tyson, because he hasn’t been active in 20 years, so they should not just license him because of who he is, that’s how people get hurt – God forbid he gets hurt.”
“People can get hit in the wrong place and at the wrong time, there’s lots of examples where guys have been hit into a coma. It’s easy to do. He’s too old for this. At the end of the day, no one gives a f— about Mike.”
Mike Tyson has tried to calm fears by sharing workout videos showing he still has strength and skill.
However, Wilder isn’t buying it.
“His power may not have left completely, but you still need to set it up, your stamina needs to be a certain way, or it’s going to look like a clown show. I don’t want to see it to be honest.”
As for Paul, he respects Tyson, but “All is fair in love and war.”
“I love the guy, but as soon as it turned into a pro fight, one of us has to die.”
