The rumor has been going around for some time about Mike Tyson’s return to boxing. But it just got real.
It was announced on Thursday that the 54-year-old Tyson will take on 51-year-old Roy Jones Jr. in an eight-round exhibition match. It will take place on Sept. 12 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.
The last time Tyson stepped in the ring was a loss to Kevin McBride. That was 15 years ago back in 2005. He was out of his prime then!
It seems Tyson wants to prove to himself that he can still compete.
Is It Good for Boxing?
The big questions now turn to whether or not the fight will live up to the hype. This is “Iron Mike,” so people will pay attention. But are these two too old to compete and entertain?
“It’s because I can do it. And I believe other people believe they can do it too,” Tyson said. “Just because we are 54, it doesn’t mean that we have to start a new career, and our lives are totally over. Not when you feel as beautiful as I do, and I’m sure that other people feel the same way.”
Videos have surfaced of Tyson’s workouts, and they are impressive. It is neat to see Tysons till getting after it at his age. But a one-minute training video is different from competing against an opponent for eight rounds.
When asked if it was good for the sports, ESPN’s Steve Kim said, “Honestly, it’s not a good look. They are in their 50s, and they haven’t been world-class fighters for a long time. But boxing is like a narcotic for many of these guys; they are addicted to it, regardless of the impact to their overall health. They simply can’t stay away, for one reason or another.”
Tyson went on First Take on ESPN and explained his reasoning for the return. He has taken care of his body and is happy about his life since his retirement. He has seen other guys return, so he wants his shot.
Knowing the state of mind that Tyson is in now, he is in a good place to come back. This won’t be the same Tyson that is going for blood, even though he physically still looks like he could.
Good or bad, it will be neat to see one of the most notorious heavyweights of all time put back on the gloves for this bout.
A Night of Entertainment
Tyson and Jones won’t be the only fight of the night. They released an equally odd undercard for the bout.
YouTube and social media star Jake Paul will fight former NBA player Nate Robinson. Paul has tried this before and fought on a card in Los Angeles back in January against a fellow social media personality.
But this will be a first for the former NBA Dunk Champion. Mostly known for his hops and short height, fans will see if he has a right hook to go along with it.
