While Mike Tyson is one of the greatest fighters the sport of boxing has ever produced, many feel he should steer clear of Jake Paul and their rescheduled November showdown.
‘Iron Mike’ was originally set to battle it out with ‘The Problem Child’ on July 20 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA. However, as is unsurprising, at the age of 57, the former world champion’s body failed him, with an ulcer flare-up aboard a plane prompting Netflix to postpone until November 15.
NFL star advises Mike Tyson to run away from Jake Paul
Throughout his boxing career, Jake Paul has received criticism for his insistence on taking on older opponents.
Despite possessing remarkable wrestling credentials, Ben Askren who was hindered by a dodgy hip and a lack of fundamental boxing skills as well as being 36, certainly didn’t have the striking ability to pose a threat. And while boasting undeniably better his hands, fans expressed their dismay when the YouTuber announced his contest with a 47-year-old Anderson Silva.
However, his controversial opponent choices in the past pale in comparison to the powerful prospect selecting an ageing legend closing in on his 60th birthday.
Hardcore boxing enthusiasts reminisce fondly over the ‘Tyson era’ with many falling in love with the sport through the brawler’s iconic peekaboo style and brutal knockouts. They remember him for what he was at the peak of his powers and have no interest in watching his demise against a man he would’ve dealt with handily in his prime.
And among those feeling uncomfortable with the whole debacle is none other than NFL sensation, Le’Veon Bell.
Having played alongside some of the greatest to ever pick up a ball, including Patrick Mahomes and Tom Brady, The former All-Pro running back knows a thing or two about athletic competition.
In a recent video, the ex-Chiefs and Steelers star revealed why he’s so worried for the Hall of Famer.
He explained: “People like myself wish it was cancelled because by the time Mike gets into the ring with Jake Paul, he’s going to be damn near 70. He’s going to be old as dirt.
“It’s still Mike Tyson, one of the greatest heavyweights to ever fight. He does have a puncher’s chance, I guess. But let’s be honest, the fight getting moved back does him no favours.
“The fact that it’s been moved back is because he couldn’t do it the first time because of his body. His body is telling him, ‘Hey Mike, no, we probably shouldn’t be doing this’. But you know Mike, he’s a competitor, a fighter at heart. He’s got a lot of will in him, he’s like, ‘I can do this, let’s just move it back’.
“But Mike, you don’t understand. By the time you actually enter the ring, you’re going to be near 87. Jake knows he just needs to knock out Mike Tyson at whatever age because he’s going viral. He doesn’t care if he’s hated because when Mike is in the ring at 91, getting knocked out, Jake is going viral.
“By the time this date comes around, hopefully, Mike isn’t using a cane.”
But despite his concerns, he’d still love to face ‘Iron Mike’ himself.
Le’Veon Bell wants Mike Tyson in the ring
Like many athletes, the football player, who has boxing experience himself, would love to the opportunity to meet his hero.
But while most would love to ask their icon for some helpful advice or merely shake their hand, Bell would like nothing more than to punch the man he looks up to in the face.
Luckily, unlike Paul, rather than making money from the whole fiasco, he’d rather trade leather with Tyson in the gym.
He recently tweeted: “SPAR ME MIKE.” Since waving goodbye to his days in the NFL, the talented athlete has taken up the sport of boxing, amassing a 4-1 record.
With victories over NFL veteran Adrian Peterson, YouTuber JMX, and a very close fight with UFC veteran, Uriah Hall, the American has cemented his place among the best cross-over boxers on the scene, leaving the door to fights with a plethora of famous faces very much open.