Despite getting outclassed by an inexperienced Jake Paul in front of 70,000 fans LIVE on Netflix from inside AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Tex., Mike Tyson considers his unanimous decision loss on Friday a smashing success (highlights HERE).
Tyson, who hadn’t fought in nearly 20 years entering this weekend, wasn’t that large of a betting underdog for his main event clash with “Problem Child,” In fact, many fight fans believed “Iron Mike” could pull off the upset after seeing the shape he was in. However, the 58-year-old veteran ultimately gassed out after one round and allowed Paul to cruise to a lopsided victory.
While someone of Tyson’s caliber might feel embarrassed or disappointed by their performance, Tyson is counting his lucky stars that he was able to lock horns with Paul on Netflix. The event produced a record-setting gate and Tyson stands to make more than $20 million for his efforts, but that isn’t why the former heavyweight champion is happy with Friday’s return to action.
Instead, Tyson is just grateful to be able to be in a position to still fight. The aging athlete suffered a gnarly ulcer earlier this year and it really screwed him up. In fact, Tyson revealed after his loss to Paul that he nearly died in June from the physical ailment. Check out Tyson’s entire post-fight reaction below:
This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time.
I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.
To…
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) November 16, 2024
“This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time.
“I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.
“To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for. Thank you.”
Surprisingly, Tyson is not done fighting. When asked during his post-fight interview on Friday if this was the last time fight fans would see him compete “Iron Mike” revealed he plans to come back. It will be interesting to see who he might fight next, but let’s hope his health holds up above all else.
For complete Paul vs. Tyson results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.