Former YouTube and Disney Channel star Jake Paul claimed victory over Mike ‘Iron’ Tyson in a boxing match streamed on Netflix on Nov. 15. This was one of the most overhyped events in recent sports history, as neither opponent landed big punches. Tyson’s return to boxing was expected to be thrilling, but he disappointed most spectators. Even though he is 58-years-old, fans expected him to have a lot more energy and power out in the ring. However, people were met with a run-down and slow version of the superstar fighter they once knew. It was so unentertaining that people have even speculated that the fight was staged.
At weigh-ins, Tyson and Paul faced each other in person, and once Paul stepped on Tyson’s feet, Tyson slapped Paul across the face. Leading up to the fight, Paul had made several comments online to make it seem that the fighters had an intense rivalry. While preparing for the fight, Tyson posted practice clips on his social media, yet none of the punches he threw in the video landed on Paul. Paul’s entrance to the ring was very extravagant, including a car to drive him and his brother Logan into the ring, Tyson however, walked in very composed. After eight long rounds, Paul was unanimously chosen as the winner.
Before the fight started, Netflix crashed several times, leaving spectators’ screens circling. Although the fights earlier in the night were far more captivating, they were very difficult to access since Netflix was not prepared for the influx of viewers. Before Tyson and Paul took the ring, the female fight featuring Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano had people on the edge of their seats. Serrano landed more punches and was left with her eyelid hanging open. After the bloody fight, Taylor was controversially chosen as the winner with a score of 95-94. This matchup was the most-watched women’s sporting event in history, with an average of 74 million viewers.
At the end of the fight, Paul and Tyson spoke in the ring and Paul showed his respect for Tyson and his legendary career. Then, Tyson said he wanted to fight Logan Paul next. This whole dialogue sounded like it was prepared before the fight and solidified many people’s belief that the fight was just for monetary gain.
Jake Paul now has a record of 11-1, and his only loss is against Tommy Fury in a split decision. Many teenagers are amazed to see Paul turn from his vlogging days with Team 10 to be in the ring with Mike Tyson and maybe even Connor McGregor next.
Photo Credit: “Mike Tyson 2019 by Glenn Francis.jpg” by Glenn Francis is licensed under (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Photo Credit: “Jake Paul (53116882732).jpg” by Erik Drost is licensed under (CC BY 2.0).
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