Floyd Mayweather Backs Jake Paul for Mike Tyson Fight Despite Criticism

Floyd Mayweather has publicly backed Jake Paul’s controversial bout against Mike Tyson, despite widespread criticism from the boxing community. As the match draws nearer, it has become a hot topic of debate, particularly due to the significant age gap between the two fighters and the unconventional fight rules.

Mayweather, known for his undefeated boxing career and recent forays into exhibition matches, expressed his support for Paul during an interview. He acknowledged Jake Paul’s knack for generating substantial income through his boxing ventures. “If he can continue to steal money and they match him the way they have been, I can’t knock his hustle,” Mayweather remarked. His comments suggest a recognition of Paul’s business acumen, if not his boxing prowess.

The fight, scheduled for eight rounds of two minutes each, has stirred controversy, with former World Boxing Champion Tony Bellew being one of the most vocal critics. Bellew questioned how the fight could be sanctioned as a professional bout, given its departure from standard professional boxing rules. “How has that been getting registered as a professional bout? It’s got 14 oz gloves and you’re fighting 2-minute rounds. What is going on?” Bellew expressed his frustration, emphasizing that two-minute rounds are generally reserved for women’s boxing, not men’s professional bouts.

Additionally, Bellew took aim at Jake Paul, labeling him as someone seeking to latch onto Tyson’s legendary status. He questioned the integrity of the bout’s approval, deeming it a “disgrace” and an “absolute mockery.” Bellew’s sentiments reflect a broader unease within the boxing community regarding the legitimacy and implications of such high-profile, yet unconventional, matches.

Mike Tyson, 57, has been preparing for the fight despite concerns over his health. Tyson, who faced a medical scare during a recent flight due to a stomach ulcer flare-up, remains determined to proceed. Addressing the health concerns, Tyson reassured fans on social media, stating he was feeling “100%.” His resilience has been both applauded and criticized, with some viewing it as bravery and others as a risky gamble given his age and health.

Jake Paul, 26, has been bulking up for his first heavyweight bout, reaching 230 lbs to match Tyson’s physicality. Paul has been vocal about his preparation, sparring with heavyweights and increasing his food intake to ensure he’s in prime condition. Despite Tyson’s legendary status, Paul remains confident, aiming to utilize his youth and current fitness to his advantage.

Former UFC Champion Michael Bisping echoed the concerns about Tyson’s age and recent health issues. He praised Tyson’s courage but criticized the match as an indicator of the problematic nature of such fights. “Tyson’s prime has passed; that ship has sailed,” Bisping remarked, highlighting the inherent risks and the mismatch in age and physical condition.

The fight, officially sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, continues to face scrutiny. Mayweather’s support, however, lends a degree of legitimacy to Jake Paul’s endeavor. While opinions remain divided, the bout between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson is set to proceed, promising to be one of the most talked-about events in recent boxing history.

In conclusion, the fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson exemplifies the evolving landscape of modern boxing, where entertainment and business acumen increasingly intersect with traditional sportsmanship. As the boxing world watches closely, the outcome will likely influence future matches of similar nature.