Mike Tyson was shot as a boxer 20 years ago and shouldn’t fight Jake Paul later this year.
That’s according to heavyweight Joey Dawejko, who has become the latest man to condemn the upcoming bout between the two men.
Tyson had been due to fight Paul on July 18. However, after suffering an ulcer flare up, the showdown was pushed back to later in the year instead.
The bout was at risk of falling through before the weekend, with Paul needing to beat Mike Perry to ensure the big event in November goes ahead.
But the 27-year-old cruised to victory over his opponent, winning via knockout to boost his standing in the sport.
Many have been critical of the decision to stage a fight between Tyson and Paul. With the boxing icon now 58, there’s a huge 31-year age gap between the two men.
And Dawejko, speaking to World Boxing News, has become the latest man to vent his fury over the clash taking place.
“I think it’s just a money grab for both of them. So I don’t really think too much of it,” he said.
“No, I don’t. Even though it’s a fight at two-minute rounds, Tyson was shot 20 years ago when he fought Kevin McBride.
“There’s no reason for him to be still competing in a ring. The only reason for him to be in a gym these days is to stay healthy.”
Both Paul and Tyson insist the fight will go ahead, despite the backlash.
Paul, speaking after his win over Perry, said his opponent was ‘back’ and already working hard to ensure he’s in the best shape possible.
“Mike Tyson is training, he’s back, looking crazier than ever,” he said.
“I’m going to get another KO and prove everyone wrong once again.
“Everyone said I was an idiot for taking this fight, that I was risking it but this is why I’m here, I take big risks.
“Mike, I love you but this is my sport now.
“You’re a legend, you’re one of the two most famous boxers ever to live, you and Muhammad Ali.
“It’s an honour to get in the ring with you.
“I’m so, so honoured; you’re a legend, but I’m going to take your throne.”
With Paul beating Perry, he has now won 10 of his 11 fights – with a defeat to Tommy Fury last year the only time he’s failed to come out on top.
As for Tyson, the 58-year-old has won 50 of his 58 career bouts.
He last fought back in 2020, with his showdown with Roy Jones Jr ending in a draw.
