Jake Paul Defeats Mike Tyson in Emotional, Uncomfortable Showdown

On Friday, November 15, Mike Tyson (50-7, 44 KOs) made an incredible return to the ring after 19 years in retirement but ultimately fell short, losing to Jake Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) in the heavyweight main event of the Most Valuable Promotions card on Netflix. The entire card took place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. It wasn’t an enjoyable main event to watch, but the relief I like many felt to see Tyson make the final bell was overwhelming.

Jake Paul Defeats Mike Tyson in Tough to Watch Heavyweight Main Event

Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul Recap

After both fighters made their way to the ring and were introduced to the frenzied crowd, the opening round saw Tyson start on the front foot, with Paul operating on the back foot, using his jab effectively. “El Gallo” landed an overhand right, which “Iron Mike” took well.

The second round was a quiet affair with both struggling to land anything of note. Despite an aggressive start from Tyson in round three, Paul landed a power jab, which unsettled “Iron Mike.”

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The fourth round saw “El Gallo” pick his shots well and move around the ring, making things difficult for Tyson. The fifth round saw both fighters land nice left hooks, but Tyson’s movement just wasn’t there, making it impossible for him to close the distance on Paul, who was content to keep fighting at length.

In the final round, Paul continued to pick his shots, with Tyson taking the shots despite the obvious mobility issues. At times it was tough to watch and emotional, but a huge relief to see “Iron Mike” make the final bell.

Both fighters embraced after the final bell and paid their respects to each other, and then it was time to hear the judge’s scorecards which were 80-72 and 79-73 x2 in favour of Jake Paul.

Post Fight Quotes

Paul paid his respects to Tyson after the fight: “First and foremost, Mike Tyson … he’s a legend, he’s the greatest to ever do it,” Paul said after his latest win. “This man is an icon. It’s just an honor to be able to fight him.”

He continued: “He’s an icon. He’s a legend. I love him. I love his family. It’s just an honor to be in the ring with all of them. I was trying to hurt him a little bit. I did my best.”

Tyson also spoke to Ariel Hewani after the fight: “Absolutely happy [with the fight],” Tyson said. “I knew he was a good fighter. I knew he was prepared. I came to fight. I didn’t prove nothing to anybody, only to myself. I’m just happy what I can do. He’s a very good fighter. Absolutely [he deserves respect],” said Tyson.

Final Thoughts

Netflix and The Texas State Athletic Commission have questions to answer for sanctioning and broadcasting this. I have no criticism of Tyson for taking the fight, but it was worrying from start to finish and the wave of emotion I felt when the final bell sounded was overwhelming. Those who allowed this to happen should also breathe a huge sigh of relief that a 58-year-old boxing legend came through unscathed against a much younger man.

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Mauro Ranallo and his comment about Jake being able to say he beat Mike Tyson for the rest of his life is something that didn’t sit right with me.

Thank you “Iron Mike” for all the great moments you gave us in your prime, but I hope you decide that’s enough.