Jake Paul Outpoints Mike Tyson in Controversial Boxing Match, Leaving Fans Disappointed

TDT | Manama

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In a highly anticipated yet divisive boxing match, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul secured a points victory over former two-time heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, in front of a frustrated crowd of 70,000 at a Texas stadium and millions of viewers streaming the bout on Netflix.

At 58 years old and nearly two decades removed from professional competition, Tyson struggled to recapture even a shadow of his legendary form. Paul, 27, a relative newcomer to the boxing world, utilized his youth and athleticism to dominate the eight-round fight, each lasting two minutes. Employing a strategy of keeping Tyson at range with jabs and accurate punches, Paul landed 78 punches to Tyson's meager 18.

Tyson, who received a hero’s welcome as he entered the ring, seemed sluggish and slow, unable to mount a serious challenge. While there had been skepticism about the fight's legitimacy and the seriousness with which both men would approach it, Tyson insisted he "came to fight."

The fight’s conditions—set by the Texas commission—required the use of heavier gloves with extra padding, sanctioned as a professional bout. Post-fight reactions cast doubt on the commission’s decision, as the padded gloves seemingly reduced the fight’s intensity. However, critics argue that even lighter gloves would not have changed the outcome, given the lack of knockout-worthy punches from either side.

The result marked Paul’s 11th professional win, further bolstering his boxing credentials despite criticisms of the match. The social media star, who rose to fame with prank videos and boasts a following of 70 million, expressed his ambition to fight boxing superstar Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez.

“He knows he wants a payday, so he knows where the money is at,” Paul said, hinting at a potential future showdown.

While the bout did little to enhance Tyson’s legendary legacy, it added another controversial chapter to Jake Paul’s polarizing boxing career.