The announcement of a highly anticipated boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson has generated significant reactions from the internet and the boxing community. Netflix is making a substantial entry into combat sports by organizing this groundbreaking event, set to feature Tyson and Paul facing off in Texas on July 20th.

Gabe Spitzer, Netflix’s VP of Non-Fiction Sport, expressed excitement about partnering with Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) for what promises to be a dramatic event.

Jake Paul, who went viral in 2020 for knocking out former NBA star Nate Robinson on Tyson’s undercard, is now set to face Tyson himself. Paul, reflecting on his rapid rise in boxing, highlighted that within just two and a half years of founding MVP, they are about to produce what he claims to be the biggest fight in history. The event will take place in the largest NFL stadium in the United States and be broadcast live on Netflix, marking a significant milestone for both Paul and MVP.

Paul’s enthusiasm about the fight is palpable. He tweeted that the fight requires little promotion due to its sheer magnitude, describing it as the biggest fight of the 21st century. Paul views this match as a chance to prove himself against one of boxing’s greatest and most intimidating figures. He expressed his goal to become a world champion and looked forward to the challenge of facing Tyson, even stating his ambition to “put Iron Mike to sleep.”

Mike Tyson, now 57, also shared his excitement about the fight. He acknowledged Paul’s growth as a boxer and expressed eagerness to see what Paul’s determination can do against his own experience. Tyson referred to the event as a “full circle moment,” recalling how he helped launch Paul’s boxing career by featuring him on the undercard of his fight with Roy Jones Jr. Tyson intends to conclude Paul’s journey by defeating him in this high-stakes match.

The fight announcement has drawn diverse reactions from sports and entertainment figures. British YouTuber and boxer KSI expressed disappointment, criticizing the matchup due to Tyson’s age. In contrast, professional boxer Amanda Serrano saw potential entertainment value in the event, indicating that such matchups can attract attention and new audiences to boxing. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin II acknowledged Tyson’s enduring strength, highlighting the respect many still have for Tyson’s capabilities despite his age.

TMZ reporter Shannon Person noted that Tyson had previously expressed openness to fighting again if persuaded, making this matchup less surprising. However, some criticism has come from the combat sports community, with figures like Dylan Danis pointing out the significant age difference between Paul and Tyson. Danis’s comments reflect a broader sentiment that Paul’s choice of opponents may not provide the most legitimate test of his boxing skills.

Sports journalist Michael Benson captured the dramatic narrative of the fight, quoting Tyson’s intent to finish Paul’s boxing journey. While Tyson had previously been reluctant to fight Paul, he has praised Paul’s contribution to boxing, acknowledging how the YouTube star has brought new attention to the sport.

Ultimately, the Tyson vs. Paul fight represents more than just a physical contest; it is a clash of eras, philosophies, and ideologies in boxing. As the event approaches, it promises to be a spectacle that will captivate both long-time boxing fans and new viewers alike.