Want more wrestling news, rumors, and results? Be sure to visit PWInsider.com and PWInsiderXtra.com.
Source: pexels.com
Say what you will about Jake Paul - the divisive YouTuber knows how to draw a crowd. Whether he's loved or hated doesn't matter to Paul, it's all equally valuable. The streaming star-turned-boxer is sure to pull fans in across that divide for his scheduled fight with Mike Tyson later in the year. Yes, the same Mike Tyson once known as the Baddest Man on the Planet. Although he's now 58-years-old, few people would be in a rush to step through the ropes to take on the legendary boxer.
The clash epitomizes the current state of celebrity boxing, where spectacle often trumps traditional sporting merit. Paul, with his massive social media following and knack for self-promotion, has become a polarizing figure in the boxing world. Tyson, on the other hand, represents boxing royalty. His return to the ring, even at his advanced age, sparks nostalgia and curiosity among fight fans. The stark contrast between the two fighters undoubtedly adds an extra layer of intrigue to the bout.
This article will delve into the rules and regulations behind the bout, which will be streamed on Netflix on November 15.
Before breaking down the conditions of the fight, it's interesting to look at how experts see this fight going. Casual fans who occasionally engage in UFC live betting might instantly think Tyson would knock Paul out. But then, if they look at Tyson's age and Paul's activity, they might reconsider how they instinctively called it. You could initially get decent odds on Paul, but it seems as though bookmakers have wised up after boxing fans dived on those offers. Now, Paul is the heavy favourite to win. The shift in odds reflects the complex factors at play in this unique matchup, such as Tyson's age and stamina.
The fight was originally scheduled to take place over the summer. However, it was postponed after Tyson received a warning from medical professionals following a medical emergency whilst on a flight from LA to Miami. An ulcer flare led to Tyson becoming nauseous and dizzy, after which point he received immediate attention. Naturally, an experienced boxer like Tyson is encountering more health problems in his later life than his younger counterpart - Paul is only 27.
Even so, the fight was not completely called off. This is probably due to how much money the pair stand to make.
The official purses for each fighter have not been made public yet. However, Paul has previously gone on the record to speculate that a fight with Tyson could generate $300 million. Not all of that money would go to the fighters but it's fair to imagine that they would get a significant portion of the pie. Former UFC champion Henry Cejudo has suggested Tyson could make '$20 million.'
Speaking on Pound 4 Pound with Kamaru [Usman] and Henry, the diminutive scrapper said: “I mean, you know what I respect, Uncle Mike… But it obviously takes two to tango. I feel like there is probably a really good payday for Mike. He’s probably going to wind up making close to about 20 mil, and he’s about to turn 58 years old."
These astronomical figures underscore the financial draw of celebrity boxing matches, leading many credible fighters to accept challenges from outsiders like Paul and his brother. They also highlight the changing landscape of combat sports, where social media influence and marketability can sometimes outweigh traditional boxing credentials in terms of earning potential.
According to USA Today, the fight, which has been approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations, will be structured differently to that of a regular boxing match, which feature three-minute rounds. This specially-structured bout takes Tyson's age and condition into account. It will consist of eight two-minute rounds. Furthermore, the gloves both fighters will wear will be 14-ounces, which is heavier than the standard gloves. Could a knockout be on the cards? Perhaps.
Naturally, a lot of fight fans are worried about the condition of Tyson. Much will depend on Iron Mike staying fit and healthy between now and then. Yet this could be tricky given that Tyson will be engaging in a fight camp, as well as a general fitness regime, to get in shape for the bout. And while he looks good when he's throwing a flurry of punches, it doesn't prove he's fit enough to last eight rounds. But Tyson isn't the only one who has to stay fit for the fight to go ahead.
Paul has another before taking on Tyson. He fights against former UFC fighter and current Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship star Mike Perry in Tampa, Florida, on July 20. Given that Perry is nicknamed the "King of Violence", there's no guarantee that Paul will emerge from the fight unscathed. However, shrewd businessman that he is, Paul will not want to further jeopardise the gigantic Netflix payday any further. Expect him to fight with a conservative gameplan when he steps into the ring with Perry.
Nicknamed The Problem Child, Paul became the enfant terrible of boxing after transitioning from YouTube fame to professional fighting in 2020. Purists may not like him, but he's amassed a 9-1 record all the same, with notable wins over MMA fighters like Nate Diaz and Tyron Woodley. Although he's heavily dependant on his right hand, his technical skills are improving. Critics argue his success is due to careful opponent selection, while supporters praise his ability to generate interest in the sport.
Tyson doesn't really need an introduction, but here it goes: A boxing legend who dominated the heavyweight division in the late 80s, he was renowned for his ferocious power and speed. This reputation scared the life out of opponents, who Tyson would frequently destroy with devastating combinations and knockouts. Even 30 years on, Tyson looks in good physical condition for this fight.
If you enjoy PWInsider.com you can check out the AD-FREE PWInsider Elite section, which features exclusive audio updates, news, our critically acclaimed podcasts, interviews and more by clicking here!
Bang On Casino
