Jake Paul urged to withdraw from Mike Tyson fight after training footage emerges
Boxing enthusiasts have hinted to Jake Paul that he still has time to withdraw from his impending clash with Mike Tyson. Tyson, now 58, is coming out of retirement to take on social media star Paul on November 15.
Tyson's last outing was a lacklustre draw in an exhibition match against fellow boxing legend Roy Jones Jr in 2020, while his last professional bout saw him retire after five rounds against Kevin McBride in 2005.
The fight has been met with vocal criticism from fans and pundits alike, especially after Tyson pulled out of the original fight night due to an inflamed ulcer.
READ MORE: Mike Tyson makes concerning 'death' admission before Jake Paul boxing showdown
READ MORE: Mike Tyson dismisses Jake Paul in one-word as true feelings made clear
However, the former undisputed world champion insists he is fit and has been posting numerous videos of his training sessions. Fans have reacted by backing Tyson to defy the odds next month, with one user advising Jake that he can still keep his dignity and pull out.
"Jake.... still time to call this off," they commented, while another added: "Mike is literally the biggest he has ever been, at 58, and his speed and power resembles that of a 28-year-old. He's defying the odds in the same way LeBron James is."
British heavyweight Joe Joyce also appears to be rooting for Tyson, stating: "Let's Go Mike! ! ! " Meanwhile, Paul himself responded to the video showing Tyson lifting weights, remarking: "Fair play Mike. You look incredible. Hulk ----. But I'm still ------- you up in 20 days", reports the Mirror US.
Tyson has fans buzzing with a recent clip showing him knock down a sparring partner, hinting at the intensity of his training regime. Previously released snippets had only shown brief moments of action, sparking speculation on his fitness levels. The anticipation for Tyson's bout with Jake Paul on November 15 is mounting as it's slated to have eight two-minute rounds and the fighters will be wearing 14oz gloves, although it's billed as a pro match.
Gene Kilroy, a close friend of Tyson's since he was 13 and Muhammad Ali's former manager, was visibly impressed by Tyson's form in the gym. "This is the strongest I've ever seen you, the strongest I've ever seen you and I've known you since you were 13 years old," he remarked to Mike.
"I think this is so amazing, this impressed the sh***out of me. Nothing impresses me. You know what, I'm going to tell you the truth, I don't lie. I was worried about him traveling here, traveling there, I can sleep now at night. This is great. I'm proud of you, Mike. I'm proud of you. It's a new generation."