The match-up between 57-year-old world heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson and 27-year-old social media star and boxer Jake Paul shocked the world last Monday when it was announced their fight would be pro-sanctioned, as opposed to the previous speculation it would be an exhibition match.
Despite being pro-sanctioned, the rules were still adjusted for the bout. The two will be fighting with 14 ounce gloves for eight rounds, two minutes each. Traditional rules would stipulate 12 ounce gloves for three minute rounds.
The fight between Paul and Tyson has been set for July 20 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Paul and Tyson have been keeping fans updated, posting videos of their training.
Paul is training in the Colorado Springs Olympic and Paralympic Training Center while Tyson is being coached by Rafael Cordeiro, an experienced MMA trainer.
I don’t think people were surprised when Paul said he was going to fight another old and retired fighter, however I don’t think anyone expected it to be legendary world heavyweight champion “Iron Mike.”
Tyson is no doubt one of the hardest hitters in boxing history. Paul is probably on the lower end of that list.
Paul is a lot more active than Tyson though. Tyson’s last fight was in 2020 against another former world champion, Roy Jones Jr. Even then, his last fight before that was in 2005.
Tyson’s body also isn’t expected to be in the best condition due to his age, and he also has a reported history of drug use.
Among those setbacks, Tyson has been boxing since he was 13 years old, developing back problems and other setbacks.
Paul is a younger fighter, but he hasn’t been fighting for very long and it’s hard to tell how serious he is about the sport.
I think if Tyson takes his training seriously and steps away from drugs then he could even knock-out Paul.
Paul has never taken a punch like Tyson’s, so I think the power will be a surprise, even if it isn’t how Tyson used to hit.
Paul can move away better than Tyson can, but Tyson’s movement forward will overwhelm and dominate Paul.
Paul has not proven any sort of champion boxing skills and with Tyson’s strength, speed and knowledge I think Tyson can knock him out or just win by decision.
