Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Postponed Amid Concerns Over Boxing Legend's Health

Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Postponed Amid Concerns Over Boxing Legend's Health

Rene Otinga
updated at May 31, 2024 at 10:50 PM
  • The highly-anticipated fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul scheduled for July 2024 has been postponed
  • Tyson and Paul,, who have a 30-year age gap, were set to clash at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on July 20
  • Days before the postponement, Mike Tyson suffered a medical scare as he was travelling from Miami to Los Angeles

Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul is off, at least for now.

The highly anticipated yet controversial fight, due to take place at the Dallas Cowboys stadium in Texas on July 20, has been pushed back to a later date amid concerns over Mike Tyson’s health.

Mike Tyson, Jake Paul, Fight, Texas, Exhibition, Age gap
Mike Tyson and Jake Paul during a press conference on May 16, 2024, just 2 weeks before their fight was postponed Photo: Cooper Neill
Source: Getty Images

An official statement was released on Friday, May 31, by Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions.

"The upcoming highly anticipated boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will unfortunately be postponed,” the statement read.
“During a follow up consultation on Thursday with medical professionals on his recent ulcer flare up, the recommendation is for Mike Tyson to do minimal to light training over the next few weeks and then return to full training with no limitations.”

Earlier this week, Mike Tyson suffered a health scare after experiencing a wave of nausea and dizziness brought about by an ulcer flare-up.

Mike Tyson’s statement

Moments after news of the postponement broke, Mike Tyson, 57, expressed his disappointment through a statement released by MVP.

"I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover," the legendary boxer said.

Jake Paul, who started out as an influencer before transitioning into the boxing realm, also welcomed the move to postpone the fight, saying he wanted to face Mike Tyson when the retired boxer was in peak physical condition.

A new date for the fight is set to be announced by June 7.

Concern over Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight

Prior to the postponement, pundits and medical professionals criticized the fight.

Concern was particularly raised over Iron Mike's last professional fight, in 2005, when he lost to Kevin McBride.

Paul, who is 30 years younger than Mike Tyson, is trying to go professional and has fought in 10 bouts, winning nine of them. His only loss came against Tommy Fury.

In his statement, Iron Mike still exuded confidence that he would beat Jake Paul when the two finally clashed inside a ring.

He said: "Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone’s patience and can't wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”

Medical professional highlights Mike Tyson risks

Sports Brief also reported on a medical professional’s take on the risks Mike Tyson faces when he fights Jake Paul.

Senior Lecturer in Medicine at Anglia Ruskin University, Stephen Hughes, observed that senior people were more susceptible to a rupture in the head since the brain loses volume with age.

According to the professor, Tyson’s past battle with alcoholism also puts him at a disadvantage since excessive drinking is associated with ‘brain shrinkage’.

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Rene Otinga
Rene Otinga is a sports journalist with over eight years of working experience in digital media. Rene's experience includes working as a Copywriter at X News Kenya and TUKO.co.ke.
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Mike Tyson