Mike Tyson has been urged to find a different opponent as he runs the risk of ruining his legacy if he fights Jake Paul.
‘Iron Mike’ will face YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on 15 November after they were forced to reschedule their original bout after Tyson suffered an ulcer flare-up.
There’s been plenty of concerns about Mike Tyson’s health in the build-up to the fight but it isn’t just the physical demands that are concerning people.
Renowned for being one of the greatest boxers of all time, some even fear that Tyson could ruin his legacy – especially as the fight will go on his professional record.
- Who is Mike Tyson? Get to know the former heavyweight king who owned three tigers and is fighting Jake Paul
UFC star concerned for Mike Tyson ahead of Jake Paul fight
One of those who has called for Tyson to reconsider fighting Paul is UFC star Stephen Thompson, who doesn’t want to see his idol risk ruining his reputation.
He told TalkSPORT MMA: “At this age I don’t think he should be taking any damage or damaging his legacy.
“I think it could damage his legacy because if he gets beaten by Jake Paul, that’s what he could remembered by.
“I grew up watching Mike Tyson knowing how dangerous and good he was, but this could damage his legacy.”
Tyson adamant he will beat Paul in Texas
Despite the concerns from all corners of the world, Tyson has still been training hard, regularly posting footage of his padwork and sparring sessions which show there is still life in the old heavyweight yet.
And just as he was during the peak of his career, the 58-year-old is confident he will come away with the victory.
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“I’m very prepared to knock out Jake Paul,” he said. “I’m very prepared. I had a small adversity. I got sick, but I feel good.
“I’m just ready. I’m just ready. I’m going to do my talk and I’m going to talk my s***, but I’m ready to fight.
“Hey, listen, [as] soon as I catch this guy, it’s over. He is going to be running around [the ring], but as soon as I catch this guy, it’s going to be totally over.”