I’m not sure what to think about the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight. One part of me wants to believe it’s a genuine match-up, while another understands it’s a circus act designed to make both men disgustingly wealthy. Either way, the buildup has been enjoyable. So Tyson slapping Paul during the weigh-in was just another piece to the show.
The entire buildup to this fight has been insane. It was nearly unbelievable that Mike Tyson would come out of retirement after 19 years to battle Jake Paul. Paul isn’t a horrible fighter, which is unexpected, but he’s still a nobody in the professional world. Tyson’s decision to return to the ring for this particular person is unusual. I mean, unless you consider the financial advantage for the two men.
In any case, they both lived up to their expectations, bringing some showmanship back to boxing. Tyson’s slaps to Jake Paul during the weigh-ins were just part of the performance. Both guys know how to energize crowds, and with only one day until the fight, they’re giving it their all.
Tensions Rise Between Tyson and Paul As They Trade Slaps
It’s been strange to see the 58-year-old boxing legend face off against the young YouTube star over the last few months. I’m not sure if I should be cringing at how Paul prods the old man into responding, or if it’s all planned.
The scenario is clear: Gen X versus Gen Z in an old versus new showdown. Jake is all talk, whereas Tyson is an aging champion. This will be either a passing of the torch or a punitive paddling. The buildup has been massive, and I hope the fight isn’t completely demolished. I’d hate to see Tyson get stunned by the goofy YouTuber, but he’s old.
Tyson slapped Jake Paul because he was standing on his toes when they squared off. When asked why he retaliated, Tyson responded, “He stepped on my toe because he is a f—ing a-hole. I wanted to believe it happened by accident. But now I believe it may have been done on purpose.” The large man, who has endured hundreds of knocks to the face, was apparently upset when his toe was stood on.
Jake Paul got what he wanted with the smack, making Tyson appear out of control. His entire build-up strategy must be really unpleasant. “He is angry; he is an angry little elf. Mike Tyson, I thought it was a cute slap buddy, but you’re going to get knocked out tomorrow. I am f-king him up. He hits like a bitch. It is now personal. It is now personal. “He must die,” he screamed into the camera.
These are bold words from a young optimist. Part of me does not want to entertain the circus that has been assembled, but I know I cannot miss it.