Boxing legend Mike Tyson returned to the ring to face YouTuber-turned-professional boxer Jake Paul in a bout described as modest and won by unanimous decision. But the story behind the bout reveals shocking details about Tyson’s health struggles that nearly cost him his life.
Mike Tyson, 58, recently revealed that he suffered a severe health crisis last June, when he suffered a severe stomach ulcer that caused him to lose half of his blood, which required him to be hospitalized and undergo eight blood transfusions. Tyson said:
“I almost died in June. I lost half of my blood and lost 25 pounds while I was in the hospital, but I fought back to get back in the ring.”
The Tyson-Paul fight was announced in March and was originally scheduled for July 20. However, after Tyson suffered a health crisis in June, the fight was postponed and rescheduled for November 15.
Despite concerns about Tyson’s health, organizers assured him that he would be in good shape for the fight. And indeed, “The Iron Man” returned to the ring after his recovery to stand face to face with Jake Paul in front of a capacity crowd at Dallas Cowboy Stadium.
After the fight, Mike Tyson expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to stand in the ring again, saying:
“It’s one of those moments where you lose but you win at the same time. I’m grateful for what happened last night. I have no regrets about getting back in the ring one last time.”
“For my kids to watch me fight a talented guy half my age and go eight rounds at that age was an experience no man could ask for. I thank everyone for their support,” he added .
Jake Paul was widely criticized for choosing to fight Tyson, who was considered to be in the twilight of his career. However, some praised Paul’s behavior in the ring, as he showed great respect for Tyson and did not attempt to land knockouts in moments when Tyson looked tired and unstable.
“I wanted to put on a show for the fans, but I didn’t want to hurt someone who didn’t need to be hurt,” Paul said after the fight.
“I noticed at times that he was showing his age, and I didn’t want to take advantage of that.”
Jake Paul stated that he is looking to put on more big fights in the future, saying:
“If people want to see more, I will be back in a few months. I tried to do my best, but when the opponent is just surviving in the ring, it is difficult to put on an exciting fight.”
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