‘I wish that guy died’ – Mike Tyson Speaks on Return of ‘Iron Mike’ Persona
Mike Tyson is set to face Jake Paul on Netflix’s first foray into live boxing, scheduled for November 15th in Arlington, Texas. The bout will see a 58-year-old Tyson box for the first time in almost twenty years, taking on the 10-1 former YouTuber, Jake Paul.
The event will see the pair fight under some unconventional rules. Though the fight will appear on the professional records of both parties, and knockouts are allowed, each of the eight rounds will be only two minutes as opposed to the usual three for men’s bouts. Additionally, the pair will wear 14oz gloves, rather than the typical 10oz glove.
In the co-main event, Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano will fight in their much-anticipated rematch. Taylor (23-1), who comes off a redemption win over Chantelle Cameron, the only person to defeat the Bray boxer, will seek to remove any doubt after the pair fought to a close decision the first time. Serrano (47-2-1) has defeated five opponents since facing Taylor in 2022.
Elsewhere on the card, Mario Barrios (29-2) takes on Abel Ramos (28-6-2), Shadasia Green (14-1) faces Melinda Watpool (7-0), Bruce ‘Shu Shu’ Carrington (13-0) seeks victory against Dana Coolwell (13-2) and Misfits star Whindersson Nunes (0-0) eyes a win over Neeraj Goyat (18-4-2).
Iron Mike is Back
Mike Tyson has said his much-feared ‘Iron Mike’ persona is back as he prepares for his return to the ring.
“When that tough guy Mike Tyson comes out, I’m always in handcuffs. I’m very careful when that guy comes out. Hey listen, unfortunately I have to fight and be that guy. I wish I could stop that guy. That guy haunts me. I wish I could stop that guy, I wish that guy died, but he’s here to stay… ”
He goes on to say, ”He wants to come back every second of my life so it’s so easy for him to come back. The only thing I have to think of is being younger and people bullying me.”
Tyson finished his career with a record of 50-6, with memorable wins over the likes of Frank Bruno, Donovan ‘Razor’ Ruddock, Larry Holmes, and Michael Spinks, and memorable losses at the hands of Lennox Lewis, Evander Holyfield, and, in one of boxing’s biggest upsets, Buster Douglas.
Jake Paul boasts wins over Tyron Woodley, Nate Diaz, Ben Askren, and Anderson Silva, though has one loss on his record in the form of a split-decision loss to Tommy Fury.
For many, Tyson’s age is the biggest factor going into the fight, leaving fans concerned that while Jake Paul may not be his toughest opponent, Father Time may well be.
Matchroom Boxing Chairman, Eddie Hearn, has said himself that he will leave the arena following Katie Taylor v Amanda Serrano 2, stating, ‘I think it’s a huge shame that one of the biggest legends of the sport comes back 20 years after everybody knew he shouldn’t be boxing anymore. At 55 or however old he is. He’s 58? Jesus Christ, he’s nearly 60. Like you have no respect for the sport of boxing if you put Mike Tyson in a ring at 58 years of age. And if he gets hurt, then it’s on those people. I’ll watch Katie Taylor and then I’ll leave. I can’t watch that.’
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