Texas Regulators Approve Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul Bout Despite Age Concerns
June 16, 2023 – The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has sanctioned a professional fight between former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson and YouTube star Jake Paul, despite Tyson’s long absence from the ring.
Tyson, who held the heavyweight title from 1986 to 1990 and again in 1996, hasn’t competed in a professional boxing match in 19 years. However, the state’s combative sports staff evaluated numerous factors to approve the July 20th bout at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The regulatory body considered Tyson’s extensive professional experience, including 56 bouts and 215 career rounds, 22 of which ended in first-round knockouts. In contrast, the 27-year-old Paul has only competed in 10 bouts and 46 rounds in his fledgling boxing career.
The fight will be an eight-round affair with two-minute rounds, and the fighters will use 14-ounce gloves without headgear. Texas officials stated that they prioritized the safety of the contestants and ensured Tyson met all required medical tests and scans before granting approval.
“The safety of the contestants competing in the ring or the octagon is always the primary concern of TDLR staff,” said Tela Goodwin Mange, a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
While concerns have been raised about Tyson’s age and potential vulnerability to Paul’s power-punching ability, the state is expected to closely monitor the veteran boxer’s sparring and training footage before the event.
The Tyson-Paul bout will be streamed on Netflix and serve as the main event, with the rematch between champions Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano as the supporting feature.
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