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Is Mike Tyson really 'scared' of Jake Paul?

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Jacob Walters | Last updated 4/4/24

In the WWE a couple of decades ago, Randy Orton had a gimmick called the “Legend Killer.” It’s where he defeated various WWE Hall of Famers, including Dusty Rhodes and Mick Foley. It was a solid heel gimmick where Orton picked on WWE superstars past their prime.

Jake Paul seems to be on that same path boxing-wise. He’s defeated former UFC stars such as Nate Diaz and Anderson Silva, some of which have been by decision. But in his next fight on July 20, it’s coming up against Mike Tyson.

However, there were some interesting remarks made by “Iron Mike” that sparked curiosity among the fighting community. What did Tyson say that drummed up controversy? Are those claims made by the former boxing champion legitimate?

Mike Tyson’s recent remarks

In an interview with Sean Hannity, the former WBC world champion said he’s “scared to death” of his upcoming fight with Jake Paul. There are some truth nuggets to this; Paul is a spry 27-year-old, while Mike Tyson is more than double his age (57 years old).

That raises numerous questions about Tyson’s physical ability. Does he have the stamina to hang with Paul? Is he powerful enough to take down the former YouTube star? There’s plenty of reason to believe that the odds don’t favor “Iron Mike”.

However, this is Mike Tyson we’re talking about here. If you’ve seen The Hangover and seen his vicious hooks, you know what he’s still capable of. Just check out how hard Tyson hit his trainer for the upcoming bout.

Maybe Jake Paul’s scared of Mike Tyson

In that same interview, Mike Tyson also said “Whatever he’s afraid of, he does.” That includes upcoming bouts with rising fighters, including Jake Paul.

“Anything I’m afraid of, I confront it,” said Tyson.

Such confidence to face his fears should be worrisome for Paul. While Nate Diaz and Anderson Silva were defeated, they weren’t exactly boxers. Mike Tyson has been boxing for most of his life. His experience and wisdom can become problematic for a younger fighter like Paul.

After all, he won’t be stepping into the ring with a former NBA player who’s 5’9″ *looks at Nate Robinson*. No, he’s stepping in the ring with “The Baddest Man On the Planet.”

What to make of Mike Tyson’s remarks

Maybe Mike Tyson is truly “scared to death” of his upcoming fight with Jake Paul. Perhaps there are fears that “Iron Mike” doesn’t have it anymore. After all, Father Time is undefeated and eventually takes the things people love away.

But perhaps this is a form of psychological warfare played by Tyson himself. As mentioned earlier, the former WBC champion is more experienced not only in boxing but in life. He understands younger fighters like Jake Paul don’t have the mental advantage to take down seasoned veterans.

In any case, July 20 in Arlington, Texas, will be fun. AT&T Stadium has hosted numerous big events, with this fight being no different. It’ll be the biggest fight of Paul’s career, which might mess with his head.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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