Jake Paul, the social media influencer turned professional boxer, has quickly made a name for himself in the boxing world. While some have criticized his entry into the sport, others acknowledge his dedication to training and sparring. However, his recent matchup against boxing legend Mike Tyson has sparked controversy. Eddie Hearn, a prominent figure in the boxing community, made his feelings clear, dismissing the fight as nothing more than a “circus.”

“I wish him all the best, but it’s just not for me,” Hearn stated in a recent interview. “It makes me feel a bit sick having to watch that. But I understand, if you don’t love the sport of boxing, then it may appeal to you. But if you care about the history of boxing, this isn’t something you should want to see.”

Hearn’s comments reflect a deeper concern for the integrity of the sport and the legacy of its athletes. Acknowledging that Paul has been putting in the work, Hearn pointed out the problematic nature of pitting a 55-year-old, former world champion against a YouTuber with a limited fighting history. “It’s disrespectful to the sport,” Hearn continued. “I don’t want to watch one of my all-time favorite fighters, a hero of mine, in the ring at 55 years old, physically a shell of what he once was.”

While the spectacle of a Tyson-Paul fight may attract large audiences and make significant money, Hearn expressed discomfort with seeing a legendary athlete like Tyson risk his health in a fight driven more by entertainment than genuine competition. Hearn emphasized that, while Paul may be a capable fighter, he should be facing opponents who are in their prime—not a boxing icon who is clearly past his.

“I understand why it sells, but it’s not for me,” Hearn said. “It’s a circus, and circus sells.”

The Case Against Tyson Returning to the Ring

Mike Tyson, once an undisputed heavyweight champion, dominated the boxing world in the late ’80s and ’90s with his ferocious fighting style and quick knockouts. Now, at 55, Tyson is preparing for an exhibition fight against Jake Paul. Many in the boxing world, including Eddie Hearn, find the idea troubling, particularly considering Tyson’s age and the risks involved.

Tyson’s physical decline is evident, as he admits that a severe injury from a fall eight years ago continues to affect him.

Despite this, Tyson remains confident in his ability, humorously stating on a podcast, “I’m going straight through him. He won’t have to find me, I’m going right at him.” Tyson’s camp believes that his experience and ring intelligence, honed over decades, can compensate for any physical limitations he may face.

However, others remain skeptical. Michael Jai White, a well-known actor and martial artist, strongly favors Tyson in the hypothetical bout. “I got Mike Tyson,” White said confidently. “I don’t see how Jake Paul stands a chance. Tyson is a beast, and he’s going to land a punch that Jake won’t be able to recover from.” White also pointed out that Tyson’s strength, particularly his body shots, would give Paul significant trouble, as Paul lacks the size and reach to challenge Tyson effectively.

 

Despite White’s confidence, Tyson’s age remains a concern. Boxing analyst Teddy Atlas acknowledged that Tyson may have lost some of the raw aggression that made him a fearsome champion, but still retains the skills that made him a legend. “He still has muscle memory, he still knows how to slip, weave, and come out with a counter,” Atlas explained. “But will his age and health issues hold him back? That’s the big question.”