'I pray that he comes out healthy' – Anthony Joshua worried for Mike Tyson as he predicts Jake Paul will beat him

04/04/2024 20:30

Anthony Joshua is expecting youth to overcome experience when Jake Paul faces Mike Tyson this summer.

The Watford powerhouse admits he is worried about ‘Iron Mike’s’ health as he gears up to fight a man 31 years his junior.

By the time Tyson climbs into the ring against Paul he will have just celebrated his 58th birthday.

Meanwhile, ‘The Problem Child’ is in his physical prime at 27 years old and is an active professional boxer with 10 fights under his belt (9-1).

The last time Tyson competed was back in 2020 when he faced Roy Jones Jr in an eight-round exhibition.

By contrast, Paul has boxed four times since last year.

When asked to pick a winner in the crossover clash, Joshua said on this Saturday’s Jonathan Ross Show on ITV: "He [Mike Tyson] is older now.

“I pray that he comes out healthy. I think Jake Paul [wins] because of youth – that's the only thing."

Paul vs Tyson is the latest blockbuster spectacle to see a retired ageing boxer pitted against an influencer.

Three years ago, Paul’s brother Logan fought Floyd Mayweather in a non-scored bout, which paved the way for others to go on and do the same.

Quizzed on his thoughts about the increase in popularity of influencer boxing matches, Joshua replied: "I personally think it's really good.

“I think the boxing hardcores, they don't like it because they think 'Why are they disrespecting our sport?'

“But I think that person brings all these people into boxing which benefits everyone else. Everyone viewing helps.”

Paul and Tyson square off on July 20 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas – the home of NFL side, the Dallas Cowboys.

The fight will be shown live on Netflix for free to all existing subscribers.

Tyson recently confirmed the bout is an exhibition but insisted it will be contested under ‘real fight’ rules and regulations.