Social media star Paul will face off with former heavyweight champion Tyson in a professional boxing fight that is sure to create widespread excitement. Netflix recently expanded their sports offerings, adding golf and tennis events, while simultaneously becoming the world’s leading live streamer of major sporting events; Paul-Tyson will be available to all subscribers of their video-streaming platform.
Paul first gained prominence through early internet influencer roles on Vine and later YouTube before turning pro in 2020 with a 9-1 record featuring six knockouts. Additionally, Paul has made waves as an action and comedy film actor. While Tyson held onto his heavyweight championship through two unsuccessful titles bids before retiring after going 50-6 with two no-contest bouts; since their exhibition bout against Roy Jones Jr in November 2021 he has not returned to the ring.
At AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Although details for the fight have yet to be finalized, Paul’s business partner Nakisa Bidarian has confirmed that no headgear will be worn; negotiations are currently taking place to make this an official, professional sanctioned fight.
Regulated sportsbooks have yet to release odds for this fight, however Bovada, an offshore, unregulated betting site which does not operate within the US legal framework, posted initial odds that favor Paul at -500 with Tyson following at +325.
Tyson released a statement regarding their fight, in which he expressed enthusiasm to give Jake some of what’s coming his way and promised that, should it prove difficult, “if he is unable to handle it inside of the ring, he will be shown the door!”
While some have dismissed Paul’s matchup with Woodley as unfair, former opponent Tyron Woodley remains hopeful about its outcome and believes Paul can win the bout. Woodley told The New York Post he thinks Paul can win by taking steps such as using more punches during their encounter in December 2023 and also through physical strength alone.
Tyson and Paul each enjoy huge social followings, which could result in millions of viewers watching the bout – possibly making it one of the biggest draws ever in sports since Mayweather and Pacquiao managed 4.6 million PPV buys for their 2015 match-up.
Paul, who has struggled to improve his image over time, hopes that winning this fight and improving his public perception would be a significant step in the right direction. He hopes he does so before Tyson becomes vulnerable in Rounds 2-3 so as not to lose face, and be considered a victor in most fans’ eyes if that happens. If that occurs he should win back many haters but that is OK too – success should always come at its own price!