Mike Tyson shrugs off push from Jake Paul during their latest face-off
Mike Tyson is set to return to the boxing ring for the first time since 2020 when he faces Jake Paul on Nov. 15. It will mark 'Iron Mike's' first professional boxing bout in nearly two decades as he retired back in 2005. The two were on hand at Fanatics Fest in New York City to attend the latest promotional press conference for the upcoming event.
During the face-off which occurred at the end of the half-hour press conference, Paul pushed the International Boxing Hall of Famer. The former undisputed heavyweight champion simply laughed off the push from his upcoming opponent.
Check out footage of Jake Paul's push and Mike Tyson's reaction below:
The bout between the two has received plenty of criticism since being announced in March. Tyson, who is 58 years old, is more than twice as old as Paul, who is 27.
'Iron Mike' has not competed professionally since 2005, retiring with a 50-6 (2) record, including 44 knockouts. He began his career by winning his first 37 bouts en route to becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion and earning the label 'The Baddest Man on the Planet'.
Paul, meanwhile, holds a professional boxing record of 10-1, including seven knockouts. He has, however, received criticism throughout his career as he has typically faced opponents who are not boxers. His only matchup against a professional boxer in his age group and weight class resulted in the only loss of his career.
Why was Mike Tyson's clash with Jake Paul postponed?
Mike Tyson was originally set to make his return to the boxing ring on July 20. The bout, however, was postponed as the International Boxing Hall of Famer suffered an ulcer flare-up in May. Instead, Jake Paul wound up facing Mike Perry, winning the bout via sixth-round TKO.
'Iron Mike' discussed the incident in the official announcement of the postponement, stating:
"I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. 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."
Tyson continued:
"Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone's patience and can't wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year."
Check out Mike Tyson's comments as well as the full statement below:
The matchup will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas live on Netflix on Nov. 15. It is expected to be an eight-round bout with two-minute rounds, while the fighters will wear 14-ounce gloves rather than the traditional 10-ounce gloves worn in boxing.