Former World Champion Offers to Replace Mike Tyson in Fight Against Jake Paul
In the wake of Mike Tyson’s recent health scare, former world boxing champion Sakio Bika has volunteered to step in and take on Jake Paul, potentially saving the highly anticipated match-up.
Tyson’s medical emergency occurred during a flight from Miami to Los Angeles earlier this week, prompting concerns about his ability to fight.
Despite the scare, Tyson emerged from the plane unaided, appearing to be in good spirits.
The incident raised doubts about whether the Tyson vs Paul fight, scheduled for July 20, would go ahead, given the significant age difference between the two fighters (Tyson, 57, and Paul, 27).
However, Tyson quickly reassured fans on social media, stating that he was “now feeling 100%” and ready to face Paul, dismissing any doubts about his fitness for the fight.
Paul also addressed the rumors, expressing frustration on social media and asserting that the fight was still on.
In a surprising turn of events, Sakio Bika, a former IBO super-middleweight champion, offered to step in should Tyson be unable to fight.
Bika, 45, has not fought since 2021 but remains confident in his abilities, stating, “If Jake Paul is serious about fighting a former champion, look for someone a lot younger or active within the last decade. I can fight Jake Paul at any weight he wants.”
While Bika may not have the same level of fame or following as Tyson, his offer adds an unexpected twist to the Tyson vs Paul saga.
Born in Douala, Cameroon, Bika has fought under the Australian flag since 2000 and holds a professional record of 22 wins, 7 losses, and 3 draws.
While the prospect of Bika stepping in for Tyson adds a new dimension to the fight, fans are still hopeful that Tyson will recover in time to face Paul in what promises to be a thrilling match-up.