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Andreas Hale, ESPN
The upcoming boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson on July 20 has been postponed.
Tyson experienced a health issue on a flight from Los Angeles to Miami that required medical attention Sunday. Initially, it didn’t appear that it would affect the fight, but that has changed after Tyson’s most recent health checkup.
“During a follow up consultation on Thursday with medical professionals on his recent ulcer flare up, the recommendation is for Mike Tyson to do minimal to light training over the next few weeks and then return to full training with no limitations,” read an official statement.
A new fight date is expected to be announced June 7, and AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, remains the desired location.
“I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover,” Tyson said via statement. “My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will be back to my full training schedule soon. Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”
Tyson vs. Paul was sanctioned as a professional bout scheduled for eight two-minute rounds and contested at heavyweight with 14-ounce gloves. Tyson, 57, hasn’t won a professional boxing match since 2003, but has an opportunity to notch a win should he be able to defeat the YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul. If and when they step into the ring, the fight will feature the largest age gap in professional boxing history with Tyson turning 58 on June 30 and Paul being 27.
The fight was to be livestreamed on Netflix.
“I fully support postponing the event so Mike Tyson has no excuses come fight night,” Paul said in a statement. “My fans know I don’t want to face Iron Mike at anything but his best, but let there be no mistake — when he steps into the ring with me, I will be ready to claim my W with a sensational finish. Paul vs. Tyson will be one for the ages, and I promise to bring my best for this once-in-a-lifetime matchup.”