Mike Tyson insists a full-time return to the boxing ring “is not off the table” ahead of his showdown against Jake Paul.
The former world heavyweight champion laces up a pair of gloves for a professionally sanctioned bout for the first time since 2005 when he squares off against the crossover YouTube star at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
While Tyson did box Roy Jones Jr in an exhibition bout in 2020, the 58-year-old has not fought in a competitive fight since losing to Kevin McBride almost twenty years ago.
‘Iron Mike’, however, puts his record (50-6, 44KOs) back on the line when he meets Paul. The bout is scheduled for eight two-minute rounds, though of course could finish earlier with a stoppage.
Paul has admitted to feeling “a little scared” watching his opponent in training and Tyson has refused to rule out a full-time return to the sport.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said: “Nothing will be excluded after I knock out Jake Paul.
“I’m taking this one fight, one person at a time. But if this one goes as well as I expect, then a full comeback is not off the table.”
When pressed on the idea of potentially fighting the likes of Oleksandr Usyk, Tyson Fury or Daniel Dubois, Tyson added: “As I said, anything and everything would be included.”
Tyson and Paul will not wear headguards in the ring and knockouts will be allowed, which has raised concerns over the risk to the 58-year-old’s health.
However, Tyson has dismissed those fears and insisted it is Paul who will be the most fearful on the night.
“For sure he’ll be thinking I am a monster,” he said.
“He doesn’t look confident. Appearances can be misleading but what I do know is that I’m not worried about nothing. I’m not nervous. Never am. Always confident. Prepared to win. Can’t wait to go.”
