Nearly four decades after his professional debut and 19 years since retiring, 58-year-old Mike Tyson is set to return to the boxing ring on Friday in a highly criticized fight backed by Netflix. Tyson, who reigned over the heavyweight division in the late 1980s, will face 27-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The fight, consisting of eight two-minute rounds, was initially slated for July but postponed after Tyson suffered a bleeding ulcer on a flight, raising health concerns. Critics argue that Tyson, who last fought in 2005 in a loss to Kevin McBride, faces significant risks.
“Mike Tyson retired from boxing 20 years ago and was already worn out,” said British promoter Eddie Hearn. “If anyone thinks Mike Tyson should be in a ring at this age, you either have absolutely no concern for him, or you’re being reckless. This shouldn’t be happening.”
Frank Warren shared similar views, calling the fight a spectacle comparable to a roadside accident. “Mike Tyson is 58 years of age and he shouldn’t be fighting. It’s as simple as that,” Warren said. “You’re on the motorway, and everyone’s slowing down just to look at a crash — that’s what this is.”
Tyson, set to earn $20 million from the event, has dismissed these criticisms, attributing them to envy. “I’m beautiful, that’s all I can say,” he responded earlier. “Those who criticise wish they were in my place. No one else can do this.”
At an open workout, Tyson claimed his rigorous training had reinforced his confidence. “When I agreed to this fight, I thought, ‘What was I thinking?’ But I completed the process. The fight is the celebration. All the hard work is done.” He later said at a press conference, “I’m just ready to fight.”
Paul, who has built an 11-fight career with 10 wins, predicted a swift victory. “I feel really good, sharp, powerful, and explosive. It’s going to be a short night for Mike,” he said at an open workout.
Veteran promoter Bob Arum was doubtful about Tyson’s prospects. “The answer is no,” Arum told SecondsOut.com. “A 58-year-old man, no matter how good or athletic they were, can’t compete at that level anymore. I hope Mike doesn’t get hurt, but I really give him almost no chance.”
Boxing fans worldwide will be tuning in on Netflix and filling AT&T Stadium to see if Tyson’s comeback pays off.
