…uncertain about retirement from boxing
By Ime Silas
Renowned boxing legend, Mike Tyson has appreciated millions of fans across the globe ostensibly for their show of support during what he termed “…one last time” bout with Jake Paul on November 15.
Tyson’s use of ‘one last time’ in his post-match release didn’t clearly suggest his retirement as he had indicated that he wouldn’t retire after the fight and, had even called out Paul’s brother, Logan.
The famous fight saw 27-year old Paul defeated the 58-year old former undisputed Heavyweight World Champion via unanimous decision after full eight rounds.
Speaking via his verified X App, Tyson, who said he won a fight to get healthy, explained how he almost died in June.
Noting that he hasn’t regretted getting into the ring again, Tyson said “This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time.
I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won”.
In somewhat self-adulation, the controversial Tyson, famous for being one of the greatest boxers of all times described the fight as an experience no man had the right to ask for.
“To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for. Thank you”.
The Mike Tyson and Jake Paul fight was a highly anticipated event that took place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The fight was originally scheduled for July 20 but had to be postponed due to Tyson’s ulcer flare-up. The significant age difference between the two fighters had sparked serious controversy, as many criticized Paul for, according to them, taking advantage of Tyson’s advanced age.The difference raised concerns about fairness and safety.
The Tyson/Paul bout consisted of eight 2-minute rounds with 14-ounce gloves.
The fight was streamed live globally on Netflix, but unfortunately, many viewers couldn’t have full-size enjoyment as many experienced difficulties occasioned reportedly by technical glitches. Netflix faced backlash for technical issues during the livestream.
While YouTuber-turned Professional boxer Jake Paul reportedly went home with $40 million, Mike Tyson is said to have garnered $20 million.
Mike Tyson is a boxing legend, known for his intimidating presence in the ring and his turbulent personal life.
Born on June 30, 1966, in Brooklyn, New York, Tyson’s early life was marked by violence and crime, with 38 arrests at early age of 13. His life however took a new turn when he discovered boxing at the Tryon School for Boys in Johnstown, New York, under the guidance of Bobby Stewart and Cus D’Amato.
Tyson’s boxing career was nothing short of phenomenal. He won his first 19 professional fights via knockout, 12 of which were in the first round.
At 20 years, 4 months, and 22 days old, young Mike Tyson had become the youngest boxer to win a heavyweight title, claiming the WBC belt from Trevor Berbick in 1986.
Tyson went on to unify the heavyweight division, holding the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles simultaneously.
The famous boxer was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011.
In spite of his loss at advanced age, Tyson remains a beloved figure in the boxing world, known for his ferocious fighting style and unapologetic personality.