Jake Paul has publicly expressed his admiration and respect for heavyweight legend Mike Tyson after Tyson had to pull out of their scheduled fight due to a recent ulcer flare-up. The highly anticipated match was set for July 20 at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium, home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys. However, the 57-year-old Tyson had to postpone his involvement on medical advice, as he has been unable to train properly.
Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), along with Netflix, are staging the event, and they have announced that a new date for the fight will be revealed on June 7. Despite the setback, Jake Paul has shown great respect for Tyson’s decision, urging him to prioritize his health.
On Instagram, Paul shared his thoughts: “Obviously devastating news, I’m heartbroken, speechless, gutted. We’ve been working so hard over here, everyone in this camp and I feel bad for everyone in this event, the whole undercard. This opportunity has been ripped from all of us, but I do value Mike’s health. Love that guy, so much respect for him and I want Mike to be healthy. He still says he’s going to knock me out and I bought myself some time so Mike is still talking s*** over there. But Mike if you still want to do this, like you’ve said behind closed doors, I’m ready whenever you’re ready.
“This is too big an opportunity, this fight’s going to change the world. I turn all my Ls into Ws – a motto I live by – and the universe makes no mistakes so let’s see what’s in store, but sorry this didn’t work out.”
The postponement of the fight has also affected other bouts scheduled for the same night, including the light-welterweight championship rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano. It is anticipated that their match, along with the rest of the card, will also be rescheduled.
Tyson addressed the situation, stating: “Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flare-up, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover. My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will be back to my full training schedule soon.”
MVP emphasized the importance of athlete health and wellbeing, stating: “Both Mike and Jake are in agreement that it is only fair to ensure that both athletes have equal training time to prepare for this important match and are able to compete at the highest level. The health and wellbeing of athletes is our top priority.”
Jake Paul, whose most recent fight was in March, has won nine of his ten fights since turning to boxing. The only man to defeat him so far is Tommy Fury, who secured victory with a split decision back in February of last year.
