If you’re a boxing fan who is looking forward to Mike Tyson’s big comeback fight against YouTube star Jake Paul, it looks like you’re in luck.
According to PageSix, during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, the boxing legend suffered a medical emergency on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles, becoming “nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare up 30 minutes before landing,”
This led some on social media to question whether the July 20 fight would still continue. Paul quickly responded on Monday, writing on X, “You love to make shit up before knowing the facts for clicks / likes. Nothing changed #PaulTyson.”
Now, “Iron Mike” has seemingly confirmed that it’s full steam ahead for the event, writing on Tuesday, “Now feeling 100 [percent] even though I don’t need to be to beat Jake Paul.”
According to USA Today, the match up, which is sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations, will feature the fighters wearing 14-ounce gloves for eight two-minute rounds.
Tyson is 57-years-old, while Paul is 27-years-old. Even though Mike clearly has the experience, that 30 year age gap combined with a recent health issue seems like a tough hill to climb. The years Tyson has spent in the ring and the power he was known for during his professional career aren’t easily forgotten. The former champ has recently posted some impressive training footage, but he’s still 30 years older than his opponent.
Podcasters and analysts are guessing that Tyson is getting paid $20 million for the fight, while Paul could earn $30 million. If you’re a nearly 60-year-old athlete with a controversial past, that’s a payday you can’t turn down. Plus, win or lose, if Tyson comes out of the contest looking a little like his old self, it could lead to even bigger career opportunities for him.
When you add all those factors together, they probably outweigh a surprise ulcer flare on a plane.
Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson airs live from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas July 20 on Netflix.