In early March, when the announcement dropped about the boxing showdown between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, the specifics were still up in the air. Would it be an official fight or just an exhibition? How many rounds? Any special conditions? Now, the fog has cleared.
Set for July 20 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, this event promises to be a monumental spectacle.
Tyson, the legendary former heavyweight champion, will face off against Paul, the social media sensation turned cruiserweight boxer, in a bout that will count on their professional records. Netflix will broadcast the event worldwide, marking its debut in the boxing realm.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has given the green light for the fight to proceed as a fully sanctioned contest, with a few tweaks.
While it’s an eight-round heavyweight fight, the rounds will be two minutes each instead of the usual three, and the fighters will sport 14-ounce gloves instead of the standard 10-ounce ones.
The decision has sparked some debate, given Tyson’s age (57) and his long hiatus from the ring, juxtaposed with Paul, who is in his prime at 27.
However, both parties are committed to a sanctioned professional match with a clear outcome.
Tyson, despite his retirement, has recently engaged in exhibition matches, notably against Roy Jones Jr. last November.
Paul, meanwhile, has been making waves with his professional boxing career, highlighted by his viral knockout of Nate Robinson.
Now, with Paul boasting a record of 9-1 with 6 knockouts, and Tyson’s legendary record of 50-6 with 44 knockouts, the stage is set for an epic clash at the 80,000-seat AT&T Stadium.
Both fighters have expressed their readiness for this sanctioned bout, with Paul asserting, “Winner takes all,” and Tyson confirming the fight’s legitimacy.
In addition to this marquee matchup, the card will feature the highly anticipated rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, following their historic clash in 2022.
MVP, the promotional company behind the event, emphasizes fighter choice and inclusivity, ensuring that both men’s and women’s fights are contested under fair conditions.
As the event draws near, fans can expect an unparalleled display of skill, strategy, and sheer determination in the ring.