Mike Tyson and Jake Paul will be suspended as soon as one of their arms is raised in triumph following tonight’s controversial boxing match.
Tyson, 58, is returning from retirement to face the YouTuber in what will be his first fight since being forced to retire in his final career bout against Kevin McBride in 2005. Many in the boxing community are concerned about Tyson’s safety in the ring at his age.
Boxing fans are also anticipating the undisputed light-welterweight bout between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, which will take place prior to the Tyson-Paul fight.
However, Paul and Tyson will have to wait before returning to the ring following their fight.
Paul recently stated that Tyson wanted the fight to appear on their records as a professionally sanctioned bout. Unlike an exhibition fight, in which no winner is determined, this fight must adhere to the rules of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which is in charge of overseeing the match.
As a result, they will be required to rest for at least seven days after the fight, with the board imposing a three-day rest period for each round fought. If Tyson and Paul fight for eight rounds, they will have to rest for at least 24 days.
According to the Irish Star, both fighters will undergo medical evaluations following the fight to ensure there were no serious injuries. In the event of a technical knockout, where the referee determines that a fighter cannot safely continue, the losing boxer is required to rest for at least 30 days.
If Tyson or Paul lose by knockout (when a fighter is knocked down and does not rise before the count of ten), they must rest for at least 60 days.
Regardless of the outcome, many boxing fans may wish for Tyson’s final fight, given his age and illustrious career. In contrast, Paul is expected to return to the ring quickly.
In 2024, the former Disney star defeated Mike Perry of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship and Ryan Bourland, both by knockout. Paul currently has a 10-1 boxing record, with his only loss coming in a split decision against Tommy Fury last year.
Tyson, on the other hand, retired in 2005 with a record of 50 victories, 44 knockouts, and six losses. Three of his losses came in the final four fights of his career, against Lennox Lewis, Danny Williams, and McBride.
Tyson slapped Paul during the weigh-in before their fight at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which heightened tensions. The match is expected to draw 80,000 spectators.
Millions more will watch from home thanks to Netflix, which will be broadcasting live boxing for the first time.
