Jake Paul has undergone a remarkable transformation, gaining an impressive two stone in preparation for his upcoming clash with Mike Tyson, as revealed by one of his coaches.
The YouTuber-turned-boxer is set to face the heavyweight icon in what promises to be a controversial showdown on July 20 in Texas.
This event not only marks Netflix’s debut in live boxing but also signifies Paul’s first foray into the heavyweight division.
Previously weighing in at 183.6lb (13st 1lb), Paul’s last two bouts were fought at the 200lb cruiserweight limit of 14st 4lb.
In contrast, Tyson, a career heavyweight, typically fought at 15st 7lb, necessitating Paul to bulk up to match his opponent’s weight.
According to boxing legend Shane Mosley, who has coached Paul in the past, the American is well on his way to meeting this goal. Mosley revealed that Paul currently weighs 230 pounds, indicating a significant increase in mass while maintaining speed comparable to his lighter weight.
If Mosley’s assessment is accurate, Paul now weighs in at 16st 4lb, a staggering two stone heavier than his last fight. However, this weight gain isn’t the only aspect of the bout that has drawn attention. The substantial age difference between the two fighters, with Tyson nearing 58 years old at the time of the event, has raised eyebrows.
Despite his age, Tyson’s power remains a formidable threat, as attested by former opponent Roy Jones Jr. Jones cautioned Paul, with a record of 9-1, about Tyson’s enduring strength, recalling the impact of Tyson’s punches during their exhibition match in 2020.
Jones remarked on the intensity of Tyson’s blows, suggesting that Paul, lacking the resilience of seasoned fighters like Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis, may struggle to withstand such force. The outcome of the match, particularly how Paul handles Tyson’s power, remains uncertain, making it a compelling event for fans and critics alike.