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HomeBoxingMike Tyson has described his comeback as a 'no-brainer' as his fight with Jake Paul approaches

Mike Tyson has described his comeback as a 'no-brainer' as his fight with Jake Paul approaches

Chris John
Boxing
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Mike Tyson has described his comeback as a 'no-brainer' as his fight with Jake Paul approaches

Mike Tyson, the ex-heavyweight champion, stated on Monday that his choice to return to the boxing ring at 57 years old was an easy decision, disregarding recent negative comments about his age and comeback.

At a media briefing in New York to promote his upcoming match against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, Tyson confessed that his training for his comeback had been physically demanding.

"I'm feeling good but my body is in bad shape right now, I'm sore, very sore," Tyson stated. The fight against Paul is scheduled for July 20 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which is the home of the Dallas Cowboys NFL team.

Despite being the dominant force in the heavyweight division during the 1980s and 1990s, known as the "baddest man on the planet," Tyson expressed no hesitation in returning to the ring almost two decades after his last professional fight in 2005.

"It was an easy decision," Tyson remarked. "He's a rising star in the sport. I enjoy shaking up the sports world and that's exactly what I'm doing now. It's something I want to do."

Tyson, who will turn 58 in June, will face the 27-year-old Paul in an eight-round professional bout, each round lasting two minutes, approved by boxing authorities in Texas.

Despite concerns raised by members of the boxing community, such as former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, about Tyson's safety, Tyson brushed off the criticism when asked for his reaction on Monday.

"I'm feeling great, that's all I can say," Tyson declared. "Those who doubt me wish they were in my position. No one else can do what I'm doing."

On the other hand, Paul expressed readiness to confront Tyson's experience and strength.

"Many people doubt me," Paul stated. "I see the comments, saying, 'if Jake wins this fight it's rigged' because of how impressive he looks. Age is not a factor.

"He's a fierce competitor. He's a fighter. This has been his life's work, so it's second nature to him. I've only been in this sport for four years, but at a very high level.

"On July 20, I will demonstrate to the world that I can outbox Mike Tyson, prove everyone wrong, and show that I will be the one coming out on top."

Tyson, on the other hand, expressed no ill will towards his significantly younger opponent.

Tyson jokingly expressed his admiration for Jake, emphasizing his intense fighting spirit in the ring. He even hinted at the possibility of future fights, but made it clear that his focus is on defeating Jake before considering any other opponents.

Chris John