Mike Tyson issues response after Jake Paul questioned over back-up opponent for fight

04/09/2024 13:25

Mike Tyson has insisted he will step in the ring with Jake Paul.

Paul will meet Tyson at the second time of asking on November 15, after their initial July encounter was postponed with the heavyweight legend withdrawing with an ulcer flare up.

The ‘Problem Child’ was recently asked if he had any concerns over the former champion’s health and if he had identified a replacement opponent, which he quickly dismissed.

And Tyson has now defended himself, insisting it was ultimately his decision without external influence.

“Bet your life on it [he will fight Paul],” he told FOX40 News. 

"I'm just looking forward to this. This is something that I would say ignites me. It just gives me a life for myself.

“It's life within myself. It's just me doing what I want to do. Forget everybody else. Forget if they wish I'd lose, win, it's about me doing what I want to do.

"Forget what my wife and kids are, like, thinking about just this one moment, just stick with me and don't feel sorry for me. Don't worry about me. That's all.

"It has nothing to do with my kids. It's all about me. Nothing to do [with them]. And sometimes I wonder, is that bad?

“Is that my ego, where it's just to hell with everybody, I don't care [that] my health is risked or anything, it's just who I am. They knew I was that way before they married me.

“They knew I was that way when I had them and then when they were kids, and I'm just going to always be there.

“I'm always going to test myself. I'm always gonna push the envelope. I'm always very nervous and apprehensive until it gets closer to the fight.

“Then, I understand this is reality. I've been through this many of times, and I know how to handle this situation.”

Tyson is now 58-years-old and suffers several health problems including sciatica, which has even left him using a walking stick.

His last professional fight came in 2005 when he was beaten by Kevin McBride, and his physical conditioning had already deteriorated.

The veteran has not fought since in an exhibition against Roy Jones Jr in 2020, but a professional fight could be a step too far and could end in disaster.

Fans were also left concerned after footage of Tyson’s return to full boxing training was posted recently on social media, with some suggesting the fight with Paul will only end badly for the Baddest Man on the Planet.

But Paul has claimed Tyson was in extremely good health when the pair came face-to-face at their showdown.

“I don’t have concern,” Paul told TMZ when asked about the situation. “He’s doing great. He’s super healthy behind the scenes and feeling great.

“So that’s what we are focusing on and there is not a back-up currently.”

The pair are still set to do battle and are both confident of securing the win by KO.

A win for Paul will simply see him make a continuation of his boxing career, but victory for Tyson may shake the boat.

‘Iron Mike’ will likely be inundated with offers to fight again if he does use his trademark power and pick up a surprise win.