Mike Tyson has stunned the boxing world by confirming he is about to step back into the ring.
The 57-year-old former heavyweight champion will take on Jake Paul, the well-known YouTuber who has become a controversial boxer.
The fight is set to be screened on Netflix and some commentators are already suggesting it could be a blockbuster event.
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“Given the names involved, that it’s not on PPV and is on Netflix, which is everywhere globally, it may be the most watched boxing event ever,” boxing journalist Dan Rafael said on social media.
The fight has been scheduled for July 21 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington but many fans are already wondering why doesn’t Paul pick on someone his own age.
Of course, Tyson doesn’t see it like that.
“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,” Tyson said.
“I started him on his boxing journey on the undercard of my fight with Roy Jones and now I plan to finish him.”
That may be easily said than done as Paul is actually building a handy record in the ring that includes six knockouts.
“He’s the greatest heavyweight of all time … the most vicious KO artist ever,” Paul said on social media.
“But I’m younger, I’m faster and I’m going to be working my ass off to get stronger.
“A member of my team sent me this video that Mike’s coach put up two weeks ago and asked me if I’m sure that I want to do this … yes, yes I do …
“My sights are set on becoming a world champion, and now I have a chance to prove myself against the greatest heavyweight champion of the world, the baddest man on the planet and the most dangerous boxer of all time. Time to put Iron Mike to sleep.”
While some fans were keen to point that Tyson was almost 60, many thought he could still actually beat Paul.
“My gawd! Is Jake Paul even gonna survive in the ring with Mike Tyson? Definitely a legit step up in competition. Tyson still moves like a middle weight,” on fan said.
Another said: “Still has power. Not as fast as he was. That’s not a criticism because he was unbelievable in his prime. Still super impressive. Can he fight 8 rounds? That’s hard to do at 57 or 58. Love to see him win the fight.”
Other fans, however, just think the whole thing is a gimmick.
“Utterly shameless, how could this even be allowed,” one fan said on X (formerly Twitter).
While another said: “Mike Tyson is 57 years old … I can’t imagine any real boxing promoter risking their brand for this … I doubt he can even pass the pre-fight medical.”