Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul: Boxing World Divided Ahead of Texas Showdown Tonight

Legendary boxer Mike Tyson is set to return to the ring tonight at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, in a highly anticipated bout against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. This intriguing clash, part of a Netflix spectacle, has captivated fans worldwide.

Weigh-In Drama Sets the Stage

US boxer and actor Jake Paul gestures during his weigh-in ahead of his heavyweight boxing match against Former US heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson in Irving, Texas, on November 14, 2024. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP)

Former US heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson is assisted in removing his jacket during his weigh-in ahead of his heavyweight boxing match against US boxer and actor Jake Paul in Irving, Texas, on November 14, 2024. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP)

At Thursday’s weigh-in, Tyson, 58, weighed in at 233 pounds, while 27-year-old Jake Paul registered a career-high 220 pounds. The tension peaked when Paul theatrically crawled toward Tyson during their face-off, prompting a sharp slap from the veteran fighter and a brief scuffle quelled by security.

Boxing Icons Weigh In on the Contest
Ahead of the fight, opinions from boxing legends and stars have been divided:

• Roy Jones Jr.: The former champion predicts a swift Tyson victory. “Mike Tyson can beat anybody he wants to… I think Mike will teach him a lesson,” he told BetWay. However, Jones added that if Paul manages to tire Tyson out, the younger fighter might have a chance.
• Tyson Fury: The reigning heavyweight champion backs Tyson for a knockout. “If Mike Tyson hits anybody, I don’t care if he’s 90, he’s going to knock them out,” Fury stated on MMA Hour.
• Anthony Joshua: The British boxer expressed concern for Tyson’s health, noting, “He’s older now. I pray that he comes out healthy. I think Jake Paul because of youth—that’s the only thing,” he said on The Jonathan Ross Show.
• Jorge Masvidal: The UFC star remains skeptical about Tyson’s current form. “No matter how much of an athlete he was in his prime, this is way past his prime,” he told talkSPORT.
• Shannon Briggs: Neutral but supportive, Briggs praised both fighters, saying, “For Jake to step in the ring with Mike Tyson is amazing. Everyone wants Mike to win, but I just want them to make a lot of money and have a great time.”
• KSI: The YouTuber and boxer firmly backed Paul, predicting a decisive victory. “Boxing is a young man’s game… Jake Paul will knock out Mike Tyson,” he declared.
• Lennox Lewis: The former champion sided with Tyson, emphasizing experience. “Mike Tyson’s gonna win. Don’t take him too softly… There’s a hundred things Tyson knows that Paul is still learning.”

Fight Night Anticipation
As the world watches, opinions remain split. Will Tyson’s legendary power and experience prevail, or will Paul’s youth and determination turn the tide? All eyes are on Texas tonight for what promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.