During a recent Joe Rogan podcast episode with newly retired boxing champion Terrence Crawford, the conversation about Jake Paul versus Mike Tyson came up.
Crawford was direct in his assessment of what he witnessed. “I think it was scripted,” he stated. “I ain’t never seen Tyson biting his gloves and like you could just… It was taking all that he could not to like hit him.”
The four-division world champion expressed disappointment in seeing the former heavyweight legend compete at 57 years old.
“It’s heartbreaking to see a icon go out like that,” Crawford said. “He shouldn’t have been in there at all.”
When Rogan asked about the match, Crawford remained unconvinced by what he saw. The bout’s legitimacy has been questioned by fans and boxers alike since it took place, with many pointing to Tyson’s unusual behavior in the ring.
Despite his criticism of the matchup, Crawford acknowledged the financial reality. Tyson reportedly earned at least 20 million dollars for the bout.
However, Crawford suggested better alternatives existed for the boxing icon. He stated: “With all his connections and things like that, I think people could have put him in the right position to make some money.”
Rogan countered by pointing out the pattern that often emerges around high-profile boxers: “If he’s got people with him that are looking out for his best interest. You know how it is when there’s a guy like that that’s a big name. Usually everybody around him pretends they’re looking out for their best interest, but there’s always lawsuits later on. You find out someone was stealing money or not paying him what he deserved. There’s always a bunch of things involved.”
Crawford emphasized the importance of protecting one’s health over chasing money late in a career. “You can always get money elsewhere, but once you can’t your mind is messed up, it’s over with,” he explained.
Crawford’s own career served as a counter-example throughout the conversation. Having just defeated Canelo Alvarez in what many consider one of the greatest performances in recent boxing history, Crawford retired undefeated with his health and finances intact.
The Omaha native made clear his position on Tyson’s performance. After his last showing against Paul, Crawford questioned whether Tyson would fare any better in a potential exhibition with Floyd Mayweather.
“He’s not going to land a fist on Mayweather,” Crawford said. “Not after his last performance.”
