Mike Tyson slaps Jake Paul during fiery weigh-in ahead of controversial bout
Friday’s bout promises drama, if not boxing purism, as fans and critics alike tune in to witness a spectacle unlike any other.
Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson struck his opponent Jake Paul during the final face-off on 14 November, just hours before their contentious Netflix-backed fight at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The 58-year-old boxing legend landed an open-handed slap on Paul's cheek after the formal weigh-in for the eight-round contest scheduled for 15 November. Security personnel swiftly intervened to separate the two fighters as tensions flared. Tyson was then escorted away from the scene.
"Talking's over" – Tyson keeps it brief
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Tyson, who weighed in at 228.4 pounds while clad in Versace briefs, offered only a terse comment before leaving the stage. "Talking's over," he said, surrounded by his entourage.
Meanwhile, Paul, the 27-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer, dismissed the slap, claiming it had no effect. "I didn't even feel it – he's angry. He's an angry little elf... cute slap, buddy," Paul retorted, drawing a mix of laughter and surprise from the audience.
Weighing in just over a pound lighter at 227.2 pounds, Paul concluded his remarks with an explicit declaration of his intentions for the fight. "He must die," Paul shouted theatrically into the microphone, vowing to knock Tyson out.
A fight dividing the boxing world
The bout, which will air live on Netflix, has sparked intense debate in the boxing community. Critics have voiced concerns over the safety of a 58-year-old returning to the ring nearly four decades after his professional debut and 19 years after his last sanctioned fight.
Despite the controversy, Tyson is reportedly earning $20 million for the fight, which consists of eight two-minute rounds. The clash marks a surreal moment in the sport, with one of its greatest figures stepping into the ring against a man best known for his social media stunts.
Both fighters have remained steadfast in their confidence, with Tyson maintaining his silence in the lead-up and Paul leaning heavily into his persona as the provocateur.
