It is no secret: the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match was widely received as a disappointment. Broadcasted on Netflix, the fight was highly commercialized and anticipated as fans tuned in to watch 58-year-old boxing legend Mike Tyson fight the 27-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul.
Critics immediately called out the age disparity between the two men but remained optimistic. After all, Tyson’s legacy– marked by a 37-0 undefeated streak and the title of “The Baddest Man on the Planet”– led many people to believe that he would win against Paul, especially after the release of his training videos, giving the media a glimpse into his grueling boxing routine. On the other hand, Paul stirred controversy as his image is tainted by his infamous history as a YouTuber, known for frequently engaging in hooliganism. These factors – Tyson’s iconic boxing career and Paul’s notoriety – made the fight extremely enticing and highly profitable, with fans hopeful for an incredible fight. Yet, it seems that it fell short of the media’s expectations.
Taking place on Nov. 15, the event generated 108 million global viewers and a record-breaking $18 million gate in Texas history for combat sports; Netflix claims it was the “most-streamed global sporting event ever,” but what did audiences think of it? Despite the overwhelming commercial success, fans were disillusioned by the results of the battle with Tyson’s loss to Paul. In total, Tyson threw 97 punches and landed 18 of them, a great feat for a man out of his prime. In contrast, Paul threw a staggering 278 punches and landed 78 of them.
Opinions on the outcome vary: many viewers pointed out the ethical and moral boundaries that were breached by Paul and the entirety of the boxing industry, while some speculate that the fight was rigged in Paul’s favor. Junior Cash Johnson commented, “Based on Mike Tyson’s sparring, shadow boxing training, and his past, it showed he didn’t compete at his full power.” He added, “I feel that he probably did it for money.” Social Studies teacher Michael King also shared his disappointment: “I definitely feel that it was a cash grab. Given the hype, it was a huge letdown. The whole thing seems suspicious given the amount of money involved.” Many also commented that this fight was a second fail on Paul’s part as his decision to take the fight in the first place was seen as embarrassing and immoral, having the potential to leave Tyson’s well-being in critical condition.
Whether it was staged or not, this fight depicts the lack of integrity within the boxing industry. Senior Madison Watson explained, “I don’t think [the industry] is real anymore. I think it’s all about the money, money, money. I want a rematch where Mike is actually allowed to fight.” Ultimately, there is an alarming sector of boxing growing that prioritizes profit over quality, diminishing the stature of the sport. Ultimately, this fight serves as a broader commentary on the direction that the boxing scene is headed: moving away from authentic and serious fights to those that provide more entertainment and money.
Nevertheless, it is still vital to recognize Tyson’s accomplishments during his training and the fight, being of his age and having survived a medical emergency a couple of months prior. His efforts did not go to waste as they got him back in the ring one last time, giving fans a chance to see the unforgettable and glorious “Iron Mike” fight again.
