Many critics have expressed concerns about 58-year-old Mike Tyson stepping into the ring against 27-year-old Jake Paul
. Worries about the legendary heavyweight champion’s health were exacerbated when the original fight date had to be postponed due to an ulcer flare-up. Tyson addressed his fans during this time, saying, “I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover. My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s, and I will be back to my full training schedule soon.
Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end, you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.” The fight has been rescheduled for the end of the year, and the first press conference since the new date was announced has already taken place.
However, former champion turned pundit Shawn Porter, speaking on his podcast, expressed doubt that the fight would ever happen. “I hate to be the bearer of bad news, we’re not gonna ever see Mike Tyson get in the ring with Jake Paul. I don’t call the shots; I just don’t think Mike’s getting in the ring. I just don’t see it happening. It didn’t make sense to me, even from a business standpoint. I feel like Mike and Jake, even to the lowest common denominator, it didn’t make sense.” Despite Porter’s skepticism, the fight between Paul and Tyson is scheduled to take place at AT&T Stadium in Texas on November 15 and will be streamed live on Netflix as part of a standard subscription.