Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will be fighting for real after it was confirmed that their controversial bout on July 20 will be sanctioned as a professional match.
Paul will face former undisputed heavyweight champion, Tyson at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The meeting had been expected to be confirmed as an exhibition, in a similar vein to Tyson’s last outing in 2020 when he faced Roy Jones Jr, where knockouts were not permitted.
However, the result will go on both men’s records, meaning ‘Iron Mike’ will be fighting for the first time as a professional in 19 years.
The New York man, regarded as one of the most fearsome heavyweights in history, was stopped in his last professional bout by Kevin McBride in 2005 and will be 58-years-old by the time he steps into the ring against ‘The Problem Child’ who is over 30 years his junior.
Despite the fact that Paul has the advantage in youthfulness, fans have voiced their concerns for the YouTuber-turned-boxer after it was revealed that knockouts were allowed.
In addition to this both men will not be wearing headgear and will compete over 8×2-minute rounds.
One user said: “And people said Jake was taking an easy fight.”
Although a user replied saying: “He’s almost 60?”
To which he was told: “Mike Tyson is Mike Tyson. Age isn’t a factor when you’re the baddest man ever.
“Jake took the hardest fight offered to him!”
Another said: “Jake Paul is officially going night night.”
Whilst a fan boldly claimed: “Tyson in 4.”
However, some allayed these fears given the fact the pair will be fighting in 14-ounce gloves rather than the 10-ounce gloves commonly used in professional contests.
One fan replied: “Pro fight but 14 ounce? So it’s exhibition rules for a pro fight what.”
Paul will fight for the 10th time as a professional on July 20 and is coming off three straight victories since a first defeat to Tommy Fury.
The bout itself is expected to generate a huge audience especially considering it will be aired on streaming giant Netflix, with many wondering if Tyson can roll back the years for one last time.
