Eddie Hearn finds it concerning that a boxing match between retired former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson and internet sensation turned boxer Jake Paul is set to take place at the AT&T Stadium in Texas with an audience of 80,000 and will be streamed on Netflix. Hearn believes it wouldn’t be appropriate for the younger Paul to face Tyson, who is many years his senior and has been out of the ring for over a decade.
Tyson’s last exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020 was considered more of a show than a serious bout, resulting in a draw as both fighters skillfully avoided significant damage. Hearn expresses mixed feelings about the upcoming Tyson vs. Paul fight, acknowledging its marketability but questioning its sporting merit.
Understanding but Cautious
Eddie Hearn candidly shared his reservations about the exhibition match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. He acknowledged the event’s appeal and Paul’s ability to draw attention but remained skeptical about the fight’s legitimacy as a sporting event.
Considering Tyson’s impressive physique and training regimen leading up to the match, Hearn speculated that if Tyson were to unleash his full power, he could potentially finish Paul in the early rounds. Hearn called into question the quality of Paul’s opponents, highlighting a previous loss to Tommy Fury, who he described as lacking skill and power.
Hearn defended his right to voice his opinion on the matchup despite potential backlash, emphasizing his role as an industry insider. He acknowledged the entertainment value of such high-profile fights but expressed concern about the direction of the sport.
Critique, not Animosity
While Hearn clarified that his comments were not meant to disparage either fighter, he shared his disappointment at the prospect of a boxing legend like Tyson being pitted against a social media star like Paul. He admitted that while he might ultimately watch the fight out of curiosity, he couldn’t fully embrace the matchup.
Recognizing the diverging opinions within the boxing community, Hearn maintained his stance as a dedicated enthusiast of the sport, acknowledging that while purists might object, the fight’s popularity would likely attract a broad audience.
