In a historic clash at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul defeated renowned heavyweight Mike Tyson by majority decision on Friday night. In front of 72,300 fans, Paul outperformed Tyson, who was 58 years old, with judges scoring the bout 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73 in his favor.
The win improves Paul’s professional record to 11-1, making him the sixth fighter to defeat Tyson in his storied career.
“It’s such an honor,” Paul said after the fight. “He’s the G.O.A.T. and an icon. This moment wouldn’t be possible without him.”
Tyson, who last fought professionally in 2005 and most recently competed in an exhibition match in 2020, began aggressively in the third round, landing strong punches against Paul. However, his movement diminished as the battle went on, allowing Paul to exploit with consistent jabs and combos. Tyson’s bursts of energy in the final rounds were insufficient to shift momentum.
Roy Jones Jr., who fought Tyson in 2020 and provided commentary for the bout, remarked on Tyson’s visible fatigue. “I don’t like Mike’s legs at all,” he observed.
Despite the loss, Tyson expressed satisfaction with his performance. “I didn’t prove anything to anyone but myself,” he said.
Paul’s unconventional boxing career, which began in 2020, has seen him compete against a variety of social media personalities, MMA legends, and professional fighters. His victory versus Tyson is his most momentous to yet.
Originally scheduled for July, the fight was postponed due to Tyson suffering a health setback.
Source: CNN