Teddy Atlas is the former coach of boxing legend Mike Tyson. He recently said that Jake Paul’s decision to step into the ring with Mike Tyson could be a grave error. As controversy swirls around this matchup, Atlas raises concerns about the potential consequences if the match doesn’t have a predetermined outcome like a WWE-style spectacle.
When Paul revealed earlier this month that he would take on Tyson on Netflix in July, it was considered to be a huge mismatch. The news caused a huge stir.
Mike will always be remembered as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. But there was a huge controversy when he decided to reenter the ring shortly after turning 58 and take on a young boxer who was 30 years younger.
Also, recent sightings of Tyson using a walking stick have raised concerns about his ability to withstand the rigors of professional boxing.
While many focus on Tyson’s well-being, Atlas argues that Paul is the one facing the greater risk.
Atlas stated on the podcast: “This is where I’m gonna make people sit up a little bit and say ‘did he just say that?’… I think this is a very dangerous fight for Paul. I think he might be making a mistake, because first of all, other than money – and he’s made plenty of money – there’s not a lot to win on his side.”
“If he wins they say he’s 58 years old, and if he loses they say he’s 58 years old, you lost to a 58-year-old guy. For me, he’s got a lot more to lose than Tyson. A lot more. There’s nothing to lose for Tyson. If he wins, in some way people are gonna thank him. ‘Thank you for ending this charade. Thank you for teaching this guy that you’re either a fighter or not a fighter, you can’t go from being a YouTuber to being a fighter.'”
“So the people that believe that, that feel that way, that don’t like Paul, they’re gonna prop up Tyson even higher and say thanks for teaching these guys a lesson.”
Atlas also expresses concerns about Paul’s decision to challenge Tyson without assurances of a scripted outcome. Despite Tyson’s age and extended hiatus from professional boxing, his formidable punching power remains a potent threat. Atlas warns that underestimating Tyson’s capabilities could lead to disastrous consequences for Paul.
He continued: “I’m gonna make your hairs stand up again… [that is] unless this is a WWE agreement – which I don’t know if it is, I’ve never said this before because I think all these fights are legitimate, but this one makes me wonder.”
“I’m not questioning the integrity of Paul, as a matter of fact I like his integrity. I like what I’ve seen from the guy.”
“But I’m just saying, if there was a time I would question it, this would be the time because unless Paul’s that confident that Tyson is too old now, and he is that good… all I know is, this is the first time I’ve actually said, “I wonder if there’s an agreement.”
“Because if there’s not an agreement, Paul might be making a mistake.”
As the date of the showdown approaches, uncertainties abound regarding the true nature of the Paul-Tyson bout. Whether it unfolds as a genuine contest or a scripted spectacle, the risks for both boxers are undeniable.
Atlas concluded: “I think the risk might be greater than the reward. I am really surprised that Paul’s taking this risk. I don’t know if it’s because of his confidence or if he really does feel Tyson has deteriorated at this point in his life where he can handle it.”
“But I’m saying, you better be aware the way I would be, knowing Tyson the way I do, power doesn’t disappear even when you’re old.”
He then went on to joke: “And if you do have an agreement with him, good luck! Because I know Tyson. When that bell rings, he might have a short memory of any agreement other than to put one of those hands on your chin.”
Only time will reveal the ultimate outcome of this high-profile clash between generations.