In a candid interview, Tyson disclosed that the altercation during their weigh-in was triggered by Paul stepping on his toe while wearing shoes, an action that left Tyson in considerable pain.
The incident occurred in Las Colinas, Texas, at a tense pre-fight weigh-in event, where Tyson and Paul were engaged in a verbal exchange. Tyson, visibly frustrated, slapped Paul across the face in retaliation. Tyson later explained that the pain from the accidental—or perhaps intentional—toe step led to his response.
“I was in my socks, and he had on shoes,” Tyson recounted. “He stepped on my toe because he is a f-cking a-shole. I wanted to think it happened by accident, but now I think it may have happened on purpose. I was in a lot of pain. I had to reciprocate,” Tyson elaborated, as mentioned in a report by Blast.
Jake Paul’s Dismissive Reaction
Despite the hard slap, Jake Paul remained unfazed and even mocked Tyson’s strike. “He hits like a b-tch … He must die,” Paul reportedly said, insinuating that Tyson’s slap did not inflict much pain. Tyson, however, was unfazed by Paul’s taunt, focusing instead on his preparation for the upcoming bout.
Tyson Calls Paul a ‘Clown’
Tyson has not shied away from criticizing his 27-year-old opponent, frequently labeling him a “clown” rather than a serious fighter.
Ahead of the fight, Tyson was asked about his thoughts on Paul, to which he responded, “He’s more of a clown than an entertainer. He needs to stop playing.” When asked whether he would knock Paul out, Tyson replied confidently, “Yes!”
Tyson’s disdain for Paul has been evident in their interactions, with the former heavyweight champion constantly ribbing Paul for his antics in the lead-up to the match.
Mike Tyson Reflects on Legacy and Life After Boxing
In a separate interview with social media personality Jazlyn Guerra, Tyson offered an unfiltered take on his views about legacy.
When asked about how he would like to be remembered, Tyson bluntly dismissed the concept of legacy, stating, “I don’t believe in the word legacy. I just think it’s another word for ego. Legacy doesn’t mean anything.” He elaborated further, saying, “I want people to think I’m this, I’m great. No, I’m nothing. We’re just dead. We’re dust, we’re absolutely nothing.”
Tyson’s perspective on life and legacy contrasts sharply with the public’s perception of his lasting impact as a boxing legend.
Postponed Fight and Medical Emergency
The Tyson-Paul fight had initially been scheduled for July 20, but Tyson’s medical emergency delayed the event. The boxing legend revealed that he experienced severe health issues, including throwing up blood and suffering from a bleeding ulcer.
Despite the setback, Tyson was eager to return to the ring. “I’m just ready to fight,” he declared. “I’ve said everything I had to say. There’s nothing else to say. I’m just looking forward to fighting.”
Tyson’s Future Plans Beyond Boxing
Looking ahead, Tyson shared plans to get more tattoos following his fight with Jake Paul. Known for his iconic tribal tattoo on the left side of his face, Tyson hinted that his post-fight plans include further body art, though he remained tight-lipped about the design. “I think I just want to do my face, my whole face,” Tyson teased, adding that the design would be “interesting.”
FAQs
Who won, Mike Tyson or Jake Paul?
Social media sensation Jake Paul emerged victorious over boxing legend Mike Tyson in a much-anticipated showdown, overcoming a significant age gap of over three decades between the two fighters.
How much did Mike Tyson get for fighting Jake Paul?
Jake Paul, 27, was ranked among the highest-paid athletes of 2022, earning an estimated $45 million, according to Forbes. Meanwhile, details about Mike Tyson’s earnings from the fight remain undisclosed by both Tyson and the promoters, although industry experts estimate his payout to be around $20 million.
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