Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight world champion, is set to make a comeback to the boxing ring, facing off against Jake Paul, a YouTuber who has transitioned into a professional fighter. This matchup reflects the ongoing trend of crossover boxing events gaining popularity and attracting significant attention from fans.
Scheduled for July 20th, the anticipated matchup between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul will take place at the AT&T Stadium, boasting an impressive capacity of 80,000 attendees and serving as the renowned home venue for the Dallas Cowboys. Notably, this event marks Netflix's first venture into broadcasting combat sports, with the fight set to be streamed live on the platform.
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With a notable age gap of 30 years between them, Jake Paul, at 30 years Tyson's junior, faces criticism regarding the upcoming bout against the 57-year-old former heavyweight champion. Some argue that such matchups diminish the reputation of boxing. However, the undeniable allure of these events lies in their lucrative potential. Last year, Paul reportedly earned approximately $9 million from a defeat against boxer and reality TV personality Tommy Fury. It's anticipated that the upcoming July fight will yield even greater financial rewards for both competitors.
Initially gaining fame as a YouTube prankster, Jake Paul has transitioned into a surprisingly proficient, albeit somewhat constrained, boxer, forging a lucrative career in the sport. Before his defeat to Fury, he had begun his fighting journey with a commendable 6-0 record, although the caliber of some opponents was questioned. Subsequently, he has secured victories in his last three fights. Paul has expressed aspirations beyond his upcoming bout with Tyson as he continues to pursue his ambitions in the sport.
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“My sights are set on becoming a world champion, and now I have a chance to prove myself against the greatest heavyweight champion ever, the baddest man on the planet and the most dangerous boxer of all time,” he said. “This will be the fight of a lifetime.”
It comes as little surprise that Tyson highlighted his opponent's credentials.
“He’s grown significantly as a boxer over the years, so it will be a lot of fun to see what the will and ambition of a kid can do with the experience and aptitude of a GOAT,” he said. “It’s a full circle moment that will be beyond thrilling to watch; as I started him on his boxing journey on the undercard of my fight with Roy Jones and now I plan to finish him.”
Regarding the fight's regulatory status, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation holds authority over sanctioning fights in the state. It remains uncertain how they will categorize a bout involving a boxer who will be 58 by the time of the contest. It could proceed either as an exhibition match or as an official professional fight, depending on their decision.
