Deontay Wilder Voices Concerns Over Mike Tyson’s Safety in Jake Paul Bout
Former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder has expressed deep concerns over the upcoming bout between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, warning of potential serious injury for the former boxing icon.
Tyson, 57, sent shockwaves through the sports world with the announcement of his return to professional boxing for a one-off match against YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul, scheduled for July 20.
Initially billed as an exhibition match, the event gained professional status after approval from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR). Despite Tyson showcasing impressive form in training sessions, Wilder remains staunchly opposed to the fight.
Ahead of his own bout against Zhilei Zhang on June 1, Wilder unleashed a passionate tirade, questioning the wisdom of allowing Tyson to step back into the ring after a two-decade hiatus.
“I think it’s reckless for the commission to grant Mike Tyson a license,” Wilder told Sportsbook Review. “He’s been inactive for 20 years, and that’s a recipe for disaster. We’ve seen instances where fighters have suffered severe injuries. It’s a dangerous game.”
Highlighting Tyson’s age and the substantial 31-year gap between him and Paul, Wilder stressed the inherent risks associated with such a matchup. “He’s pushing 60, and no one seems to care about his well-being,” Wilder lamented. “It’s all about the spectacle, but at what cost? We shouldn’t be exploiting legends for entertainment.”
While acknowledging that Tyson’s power may still linger, Wilder emphasized the importance of timing and conditioning in professional boxing. “You can’t rely solely on brute force,” he cautioned. “Boxing requires precision and stamina. Otherwise, it becomes a mockery of the sport.”
Expressing a desire to preserve Tyson’s legacy, Wilder voiced apprehension over the potential outcome of the bout. “I don’t want his legacy tarnished by a loss to a YouTuber,” he admitted. “We should remember him for his greatness, not a sideshow event.”
Despite concerns raised by several quarters regarding the safety of both fighters, Tyson and Paul remain undeterred in their quest to step into the ring, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash of generations.
