Evander ‘The Real Deal’ Holyfield knows Mike Tyson better than most and was in Texas shortly after Tyson slapped Jake Paul at the weigh-ins.
An iconic moment before the fight for sport, Netflix and entertainment as all three worlds of streaming, sport and entertainment meet on Friday night in the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson global fight event.
Speaking to the folks at Fight Hub boxing legend Evander Holyfield said of what he saw after the weigh-ins:
“Have you spoken to Mike about his preparation or how he’s feeling in the ring this time around? What are your thoughts on the fight?
Well, you know, obviously, the money is good, but the big question is, will it be an early knockout, or will it be a short fight? The thing with Mike is, I don’t think he’s going to get outboxed. But, if he takes it seriously, he’s going to give it his all.
How big would it be if Jake knocked out Mike?
Oh, it would be huge.
Do you think it would hurt boxing if Jake knocked him out?
No, I don’t think it would hurt boxing. Jake’s got energy, and he’s a good fighter. He’s just a fighter who didn’t go through the system like most boxers, but he can fight.
What do you think of the current state of boxing right now, with fights like this happening? We could’ve had potential fights, but obviously Mike Tyson is 58, closer to 60. Do you think this is a sign that boxing is changing?
Well, all this stuff makes people think they can do it. I started boxing when I was 8 years old. The only reason I knew I could make the Olympic team was because I saw the Spinks brothers do it. They were from the ghetto, and everybody told me I couldn’t be good because I was from the ghetto. But when the Spinks brothers both won gold medals in 1976, I knew I could do it too.
Do you ever think about fighting again? Would you have any interest in one of these kinds of fights?
Well, you know, it’s up to him. My whole thing is, I’m always ready. I stay in shape, but I wouldn’t just fight anyone. The fact of the matter is, I understand I’m older, and I’m going the other way.
You said you wouldn’t fight just anyone, but would you fight Mike Tyson again?
Of course I’d fight him again. I’m always ready to fight. We’re about the same age, so…
What do you think about the whole situation?
Well, you know, the big thing is that people do what they do. Just like anyone else. But, yeah, I don’t know. I don’t know…
Thank you so much. Always an honor.”
Interesting that Holyfield is serious about fighting Tyson again per the above.
Don’t rule that out, either, whatever happens Friday night in Texas live on Netflix.
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