Tyson beaten by Youtuber Paul in heavyweight return

AFP | Arlington

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Mike Tyson’s much-anticipated return to boxing ended in a lopsided loss, as YouTuber-turned-prizefighter Jake Paul dominated the 58-year-old icon in their eight-round bout at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Paul triumphed by unanimous decision with scores of 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73 across all three judges' cards.

Tyson, who had been out of the ring for nearly two decades, struggled to land significant punches during the fight, while Paul, 27, used his speed and movement to control the bout. The former undisputed heavyweight champion was visibly outmatched, with Paul having him in trouble after a barrage of punches in the third round.

Despite his promise to deliver a knockout blow during a heated weigh-in on Thursday, where Tyson slapped him across the face, Paul couldn't finish Tyson off. However, he cruised to a comfortable victory, landing 78 out of 278 punches, compared to Tyson's 18 out of 97.

As the final seconds of the eighth round ticked away, Paul even took a moment to bow in respect to Tyson, who had earned worldwide admiration for his legendary career. “Mike Tyson, it’s such an honor. Let’s give it up for Mike,” Paul said after the fight, praising the former champ as "the greatest to ever do it."

In contrast, Tyson seemed content with his performance despite the defeat. "I came to fight. I didn’t prove anything to anybody, only to myself... I’m just happy with what I can do," he said after the bout. Tyson, who wore a brace on his right knee, downplayed any physical limitations, stating, “If I did, I wouldn’t be in here.”

Tyson also spoke highly of Paul, acknowledging his opponent’s skill and success in transitioning from YouTube to boxing. "He’s a very good fighter," Tyson remarked. When asked about the future, Tyson remained non-committal, hinting he might fight again but adding, “It depends on the situation."

Tyson, who reportedly earned $20 million for the fight, made his return to the ring nearly 19 years after his last official bout in 2005, a defeat to Kevin McBride. His return had sparked criticism across the boxing world, with many labeling the fight as a "circus" that could endanger the legendary fighter's health. Tyson had previously dismissed these concerns, insisting that his critics were simply jealous of his continued star power.

While Tyson tried to invoke memories of his past dominance during his ring walk, donning his signature black trunks and poncho, it was clear the fight would be far from the brutal performances that once made him the most feared heavyweight in boxing history. Throughout the contest, Paul kept Tyson at bay, sealing a comfortable victory.