Boxing legend Terence Crawford has joined the chorus of voices expressing concern over the upcoming bout between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, scheduled for November 15th in Dallas, TX. At 58 years old, Tyson is set to return to the ring, aiming to defeat the controversial Paul for the second time in his career.
The ethics of Tyson’s long-awaited return have divided the boxing community, particularly given the 31-year age-gap between Tyson and Paul. Many, including Crawford, fear for Tyson’s safety and question the necessity of the match.
Crawford, a prominent figure and ambassador in the boxing world, voiced his apprehensions. “No, I don’t (have interest),” Crawford said. “I think Mike Tyson is an icon of boxing. He has done a lot in boxing, and I just feel like he is past his prime. He’s old, and I don’t want to see Mike get in the ring and hurt himself.
Crawford added, “With him having health problems, it adds another reason I don’t want to see him in the ring.”
Originally, Tyson had to withdraw from last weekend’s scheduled fight against Paul in Dallas due to a recent medical scare.
Jake Paul, meanwhile, has been on a winning streak, most recently delivering knockout to Bare Knuckle FC star Mike Perry. Paul has won four consecutive fights since his loss to Tommy Fury last year.
Tyson, who hasn’t fought professionally since his 2005 defeat to Kevin McBride, made a brief comeback in a 2020 exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr.
As the fight date approaches, the debate continues over the ethics and safety of seeing a boxing icon like Tyson step back into the ring against a much younger opponent.
