Boxing legend Mike Tyson appears to be enjoying a well-deserved break after his highly anticipated fight with social media personality Jake Paul. The 58-year-old boxing icon returned to the ring in November, making his first professional fight since losing to Kevin McBride in 2005.
Although he took part in an exhibition match with fellow boxing legend Roy Jones Jr in 2020, fighting 27-year-old Paul posed quite a challenge for Tyson, mainly due to the significant age difference between them. As a result, the experienced boxer had to undergo demanding training to prepare for the match.
Before the fight, Tyson impressed many with his muscular physique. But on fight night in Texas, his age became apparent.
Despite failing to secure a knockout, Paul won by unanimous decision, increasing his professional boxing record to 11-1. Seven weeks after the fight, Tyson appears to be enjoying some well-deserved rest as he has clearly gained weight in recent footage.
After an intense and grueling training camp, the American boxing legend moved from the ring to spending time with his family during the holiday season. Before his defeat at the hands of Paul, Tyson revealed that he “almost died”.
Taking to Twitter, the legendary fighter shared: “It’s one of those situations where you lost, but you still won. I’m grateful for last night. I don’t regret entering the ring for the last time.
“I almost died in June. I had 8 blood transfusions. I lost half my blood and 25 pounds in the hospital and had to fight to get better to fight, so I won. My kids seeing me go head to head and finish 8 innings with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy Stadium is an experience no man could ever ask for. Thank you.
Tyson was scheduled to face Paul in July, but health issues forced a delay as Tyson suffered a solemn scare during the flight. Before the fight, Tyson told Up-to-date York Magazine: “I was in the bathroom vomiting blood.
“I asked the doctor, ‘Am I going to die?’ He replied: “We have options.” Options? I couldn’t believe it. I had eight blood transfusions. The doctor said I had lost half my blood and almost died.
“I lost 25 pounds in 11 days. I couldn’t eat. Only fluids. Every time I went to the bathroom it smelled of tar. It didn’t even smell like —- anymore. It was disgusting. It repulsed me [when I continued training]”
Despite the setback, Tyson showed unparalleled spirit as he explained his road to recovery: “All my coordination, stamina, everything was hectic coming back. I was already at the top. I could have fought him that day. Now I have to start from scratch. I just don’t give up.”