Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson: The Next Big Fight
By Eddie Sanchez
Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson is really happening, with Netflix making its debut in the fight game to host this unusual boxing crossover.
Paul, 27, and Tyson, 57, will engage in an exhibition boxing match at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on July 20. The bout will be streamed globally by Netflix without a PPV price tag. Despite Tyson’s legendary status and extensive experience, he is considered a modest underdog. Paul’s youth, commitment, and the support of a qualified team are expected to compensate for his lack of longevity.
The fight will be an officially sanctioned bout by the Texas commission, consisting of eight two-minute rounds with slightly larger gloves than usual.
“After the contract was signed, we got a call from Mike’s team, and they were like, ‘Hey, he wants it to be a pro fight for sure,'” Paul said at the introductory press conference in May. “He wants that. He wants to put it all on the line.’ I respect Mike for that, and if he wanted it to be that, then let’s run it.”
Paul (9-1, 6 KOs) is fully committed to boxing. He began by boxing other social media stars before progressing to UFC fighters and champions. Recently, Paul has taken a more traditional development route, securing consecutive knockout wins over lesser-known boxers leading up to the Tyson announcement.
Tyson (50-6-2 NC, 44 KOs) has not boxed since his 2020 exhibition against legend Roy Jones Jr., which ended in a draw. Known for his enduring power, “Iron” Mike will need it against an opponent 30 years his junior.
Bonus:
Former champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. will also return on this card, facing former UFC title challenger Darren Till in the cruiserweight division.
