Controversial former fighter Chael Sonnen has labelled the upcoming bout between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson as potentially illegal, citing health concerns for Tyson. The event has reignited debates akin to those during the Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Conor McGregor fight.
Sonnen’s critique centres on the two fighters’ significant age and health disparities. Mike Tyson, now 58, faces challenges from a lengthy boxing career and recent health scares, including a severe ulcer flare-up. Jake Paul, 27, has a clear advantage in age and health.
Sonnen drew parallels to the Mayweather-McGregor fight, suggesting that Paul’s leniency toward Tyson could be seen as manipulative, thus tainting the fight’s integrity. He emphasized that the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which sanctioned the fight, would view any intentional prolonging of the match by Paul as disingenuous.
Despite these concerns, Sonnen admires Tyson’s courage in stepping into the ring under such circumstances. He remarked on Tyson’s bravery and the risks to his reputation by participating in the fight scheduled for July 20 in Arlington, Texas. Sonnen sees this matchup as a “massive courageous moment” for Tyson, highlighting the legendary boxer’s willingness to challenge himself despite potential disadvantages.
