Mike Tyson stated he was prepared for his upcoming 15 November fight against Jake Paul during a joint press conference in New York City on Sunday. The bout, initially set for 20 July, was postponed after the 58-year-old former world heavyweight champion suffered an ulcer flare-up, requiring him to rest.
Tyson, with a formidable record of 50 wins and 6 losses, including 44 knockouts, was one of the most feared heavyweights in boxing history, although he has not competed professionally since 2005. When questioned about his return to the ring after such a long retirement, Tyson confidently replied, “Because I can. Who else can do it but me? We have a YouTuber facing the greatest fighter who ever lived.”
Tyson added that Paul may have faced opponents with similar intentions, but the reality would be different this time. He predicted, “As soon as I catch this guy, it will be over. He’s going to run like a thief.”
Jake Paul, who was met with boos from the crowd, claimed he would knock Tyson out. “I’m here to make $40 million and knock out a legend,” said Paul, adding that his friendship with Tyson would be on hold until after the fight.
Paul, 27, is 31 years younger than Tyson and holds a 10-1 boxing record. The fight will be broadcast live on Netflix and held at the 80,000-seat AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, home to the Dallas Cowboys.