More than detractors expect Mike Tyson to withdraw from facing Jake Paul on November 15 as the 58-year-old continues training.
World Boxing News reported that conspiracy theorists are rife in their belief that Paul vs Tyson is a publicity stunt and that the YouTuber will eventually face someone else on the Netflix date.
Many see Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. or old opponent Tommy Fury stepping in as skeptics throw further doubt on the much-publicized event taking place.
It is not only the fans but also some combat stars who share those views. Paul’s influencer rival, KSI, doesn’t see the pair trading punches. The star of ‘Sidemen,’ stated, “Jake’s just getting heavier and heavier and heavier, obviously, because he’s just looking at the Mike Tyson fight – which I still don’t think is going to happen.
“I think they’re going to try and make an ordeal, and then eventually Mike will realize he actually can’t fight, and then I don’t know what they’re going to do then. But for me, the Jake fight, I’m just going to wait. I don’t really need to chase him. Eventually, he’s going to have no other options but to have to come to me.”
He added: “He’s just not trying to get involved. He’s in a bit of an awkward situation, so I think it’s probably easier for him if he just leaves it.”
Tyson still hasn’t shown any proof that he can compete at 58. The former world heavyweight champion is sticking with his trend of releasing frightening ten-second clips of himself looking ferocious.
Another story is whether he can actually move around for a full two-minute round, as stipulated in his terms for the professional contest. Judging by the only proof we have, which is Evander Holyfield competing at 58 in 2021, Tyson doesn’t have a hope of sticking with Paul, 27, for the duration.
The only chance ‘Iron’ Mike has is to score an early knockout – and a very quick one at that. Holyfield couldn’t land a blow on Vitor Belfort in just over a one and a half minutes of action. Once hit, his reflexes and punch resistance failed the former champion.
Many expect Tyson to be the same as Father Time remains undefeated, and no matter how good you look in ten seconds, the squared circle is a much more unforgiving place.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
