The upcoming showdown between former unified heavyweight champion Mike Tyson and internet sensation-turned-boxer Jake Paul has stirred significant buzz in the sports world. Scheduled for July 20 at the AT&T Arena in Texas, this event promises to be a spectacle for boxing enthusiasts worldwide.
One of the focal points of discussion surrounding this match is the substantial age gap between the two contenders. At 57 years old, Tyson brings decades of experience and a storied career to the ring. His opponent Jake Paul is just 27 years old. However, he has a growing reputation in the boxing world.
Despite his relatively short tenure in professional boxing, Paul has amassed nine victories. This is primarily against former UFC competitors, alongside a single defeat against Tommy Fury.
Tyson’s journey in the world of boxing dates back to the eighties when he first emerged as a prodigious talent. At the age of 20, Tyson secured his place in history by becoming the youngest heavyweight champion. He achieved this milestone in his 28th professional bout.
Later in 1987, he etched his name in the annals of boxing by becoming the first heavyweight to hold the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles simultaneously. These accomplishments catapulted Tyson to legendary status, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
Beyond his achievements in the ring, Tyson shares an intriguing connection with another prominent athlete. He is a former baseball player for the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs during the 1970s and 1980s. Interestingly, Tyson expressed his admiration for the baseball star who has the same name as him.
In a candid interview with NY Sportsday in 2016, Tyson revealed his longstanding fascination with the renowned baseball player who shares his name.
He said: “I always wanted to meet Mike Tyson, the famous baseball player from the St. Louis Cardinals. He was always my hero because somebody famous was named Mike Tyson. I was always proud of that.”
“I always felt special because of that. I knew I was going to be somebody someday because there was already a famous Mike Tyson out there.”
“Isn’t that crazy? Somebody else has your name and they’re famous? I always wanted to tell him that. To meet him, that would be awesome. That’s on my bucket list.”