MMA athlete Bob Sapp has thrown down the gauntlet to former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, urging him to come out of retirement for a showdown.
Sapp, known for his imposing stature and fighting prowess, directed his challenge to Tyson, referencing their previous discussions about a potential bout.
“Mike, we’ve talked about this before,” Sapp stated. “I’ve sent you a message along with a photo, saying, ‘Mike, if you agree to fight me, it will be a true test of strength and skill.’ And that still holds true.”
“Now that you’ve put aside any reluctance, let me propose something,” Sapp continued. “
How about a friendly contest where it’s you, me, and two of my top fighters against two of your best contenders? Let’s keep it fair and square, following the Marquess of Queensbury Rules.
I understand if you’re hesitant about a one-on-one match, so I’m willing to take on all of you, including your fellow fighters.”
Despite previous discussions between Tyson and Sapp, plans for their bout faced numerous changes and negotiations, ultimately leading to Tyson’s exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr.
While Tyson and Jones Jr.’s bout garnered significant attention and broke records, the potential matchup between Tyson and Sapp remained on the back burner.
However, Sapp reiterated his challenge to Tyson, recalling their past conversations and expressing his continued interest in facing the boxing legend.
“Mike, let’s not forget our discussions,” Sapp emphasized. “I sent you a message with a photo, saying, ‘Mike, if you accept the challenge, I’ll come out victorious, leaving you defeated.’ And I still stand by that.”
Addressing Tyson directly, Sapp issued his challenge once again, proposing a scenario involving their respective teams and adhering to boxing’s traditional rules.
With Tyson maintaining his dedication to training and Sapp persisting in issuing challenges, the possibility of their matchup being revived remains slim, but not entirely out of the question.
Sapp’s continued interest in facing Tyson indicates that the door for their potential showdown is still open.