When was Mike Tyson's last fight? Exploring 57-year-old 'Iron Mike's' latest fighting history prior to return against Jake Paul
Mike Tyson is set to make his return to the boxing ring when he faces Jake Paul at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas live on Netflix on July 20. The bout has received plenty of criticism as the International Boxing Hall of Famer is set to turn 58 years old on June 30, while the social media personality, 27, is less than half his age.
'Iron Mike' had already been an undisputed heavyweight champion with 47 professional boxing bouts before his opponent was even born. Despite the age-gap, the fight was sanctioned as a professional boxing match by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations on April 29. Take a look at when Tyson last entered the ring below.
When was Mike Tyson's last fight?
Mike Tyson has not entered the boxing ring since November 2020, when he faced Roy Jones Jr. in an eight-round exhibition bout. While it was unofficially scored as a split draw, many believed 'Iron Mike' was the rightful winner as he significantly outlanded 'Captain Hook' in both total punches and power punches.
Check out the official numbers, courtesy of CompuBox, below:
While Mike Tyson had a strong showing, his opponent was just two and a half years younger than him. Additionally, the bout was not scored by the California State Athletic Commission. There was also a no-knockout clause with the referee under orders to stop the fight if either boxer suffered a cut to their face.
The former undisputed heavyweight champion's last professional boxing match came against Kevin McBride, all the way back in 2005. He lost the bout via corner retirement and proceeded to walk away from the sport, claiming that he had lost his passing for boxing.
While many have suggested that his return against Jake Paul is simply an opportunity to receive a large payday, there have been reports that Tyson is taking things seriously. Although, it will be a professional bout that will go on both fighters' records, there will be some differences from the typical heavyweight boxing match.
The two will clash in an eight-round bout with two-minute rounds, which is likely due to Tyson's advanced age and Paul's inexperience. Meanwhile, they will wear 14-ounce gloves as opposed to the traditional 10-ounce gloves worn in boxing.
The heavier gloves are expected to play into Paul's favor as, despite his age, Tyson still has his greatest asset - tremendous punching power.