Lennox Lewis Expresses Concern for Jake Paul Over Battle with Mike Tyson
July 20 in Texas marks a jaw-dropping clash as YouTube sensation-turned-boxer Jake Paul is set to face boxing legend Mike Tyson in what’s being dubbed a historic fight. This battle comes exactly 20 years after Tyson’s last professional match and over two decades since Lewis triumphed over Tyson in their 2002 encounter.
Despite concerns about 57-year-old Tyson’s health and safety—following the announcement that the bout will be officially sanctioned—it’s Paul who should be wary, according to Lewis. The former heavyweight champion, who delivered a knockout to Tyson in their £35 million bout, emphasized his concerns to The Guardian. “I’m concerned for Jake Paul. Tyson still knows how to punch, as you can see when he’s hitting a bag. If Jake gets hit by one of those punches, he’s going to feel it,” Lewis stated.
Highlighting Tyson’s formidable presence, Lewis added, “Tyson comes forward and knows how to cut off the ring. It could just be a matter of time, considering how good Jake Paul’s defense is.”
Mike Tyson was last seen in the ring for a 2020 exhibition against Roy Jones Jr., which ended in a draw. His illustrious boxing career officially concluded in 2005 after losses to Danny Williams and Kevin McBride, who has since become a tree surgeon.
Yet, Tyson is gearing up for another remarkable return to the ring. This time, the rules are slightly modified with the fighters wearing larger 14oz gloves, as opposed to the usual 10oz, and rounds shortened to eight, two-minute rounds.
Jake Paul stands at a record of 9-1, with his only defeat coming against Tommy Fury in Saudi Arabia last year. Now at 27, Paul has notched three wins since that defeat and is preparing to take on his first heavyweight fight against Tyson.
As rumors of a possible rematch with Tyson floated around, Lewis, now 58, reflected on the continuous attempts to lure him back into the ring. “Yeah, they do. But, as my friend says, I ain’t no fool. Money talks, bulls**** walks…”
