Mike Tyson’s fight against Jake Paul will be in doubt until the eleventh hour as the pair finally prepare to meet in the ring.
The two had been set to fight in June until Tyson was forced to pull out due to an ulcer flare-up.
A rearranged date of 15 November has been set for the pair to battle in what will be ‘Iron Mike’s’ first fight in four years when he took on Roy Jones Jr in an underwhelming exhibition fight.
This meeting will be classed as a professional fight though, something Tyson hasn’t done since 2005, when he was forced to retire after five rounds against Kevin McBride.
But despite the 58-year-old’s claims that he is well enough to fight, there are doubts about whether the fight will go ahead.
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Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight may be canceled due to medical fears
To ensure safety protocols are followed to the letter, Tyson will undergo several medical tests before the fight to check he is healthy enough to fight.
If the authorities aren’t satisfied, the fight could be downgraded to an exhibition fight or canceled altogether should they believe the risk is too high.
A statement from Tela Mange, Communications Manager for the Texas Department of License and Regulation, to World Boxing News said: “TDLR is aware of media reports regarding an episode involving Mr. Tyson. At present, Mr. Tyson and Mr. Paul have met the medical requirements for this event.
“Before the event, TDLR will conduct pre-fight physicals to ensure the health of both fighters.”
Other precautions have also been included. The fight will consist of eight two-minute rounds as opposed to three and both competitors will wear 14oz gloves instead of the traditional 10oz.
Mike Tyson confident he will be ready for Jake Paul fight
Despite concerns from others surrounding his health, Tyson himself has insisted that he is fit and is eyeing up a knockout win.
“I’m very prepared to knock out Jake Paul. I’m very prepared. I had a small adversity. I got sick, but I feel good. I’m just ready. I’m just ready,” he said.
“I’m going to do my talk and I’m going to talk my s***, but I’m ready to fight. I’m beautiful and I’ve been back to training for a while, like two weeks, three weeks… I’m in camp. As soon as I catch this guy, it’s over.
“Jake Paul is going to be running around the ring, but as soon as I catch this guy, it’s going to be totally over. I’m going to f*** him up.”