19 March 2024 , 08:19
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Mike Tyson's trainer has attempted to allay fears over the heavyweight legend's health after he announced a fight with YouTuber Jake Paul.
Tyson will come out of retirement at the age of 58 to take on Paul in Texas on July 20. He last fought professionally almost 20 years ago when he retired on his stool after five rounds against Kevin McBride before returning in a bore draw exhibition bout against Roy Jones Jr in 2020.
Tyson has been warned by a doctor that he could suffer brain damage if he returns to the ring, but his coach Rafael Cordeiro played down suggestions the bout is irresponsible. "I believe we don’t have to be concerned about it. We’re talking about a two-time world champion," he told The MMA Hour. "The guy didn’t have 20 fights in two years, he knows how to fight. He’s fought against the best guys in the world. When he steps inside the ring he knows what to do. It’s not something new for Mike, and this fight is no different.
“He works hard every single day to go in there and try to knock Jake out from the beginning to the end. This is his style, nobody has teach Mike Tyson how to fight. He’s going to prove that in July. You can see fire in his eyes when he trains, and he will never give less than that. I truly believe it is going to be a great show. Mike is going to step into the ring as the old Mike Tyson, and he’s going to try and knock out Jake from the beginning to the end."
Tyson has started his training camp for the summer bout which could be held in front of 80,000 fans. "He's already in shape and we've started doing rounds. It's amazing to see him hitting mitts, Mike is a monster. I can guarantee Mike will touch Jake and lets see how Jake reacts to that. With all due respect, he's a good kid... but he hasn't faced anyone who is a legend in the sport. We are talking about one of the most popular people in the world."
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Tyson's fight with Paul will be streamed on Netflix but no announcement has been made as to whether the bout will be staged under professional rules. The YouTuber has, however, confirmed headguards will not be worn.