The fight, which took place at AT&T Stadium in Texas on Nov. 15 and aired live on Netflix, saw YouTube-turned-boxer Paul, 27, defeat the 58-year-old Tyson by unanimous decision. The bout, which was Tyson’s first professional fight in 19 years, garnered massive attention, with the event being viewed in 65 million households.
However, following the fight, many observers speculated that the bout was staged despite being an officially sanctioned pro contest after Paul admitted that he was holding back against the former world heavyweight champion.
In response, MVP issued a statement denying these claims and affirming the integrity of the fight.
“Rigging a professional boxing match is a federal crime in the United States,” the statement read. “Paul vs Tyson was a professional match sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations. Both fighters in good faith performed to the best of their abilities with the goal of winning the fight. There were absolutely no restrictions – contractual or otherwise – around either fighter.”
“Trash talk and speculation are common in sports, but suggesting anything other than full effort from these fighters is not only naive but an insult to the work they put into their craft and to the sport itself,” MVP added.
Originally scheduled for July, Tyson and Paul’s fight was postponed after Tyson experienced an ulcer flare-up and had to seek medical attention.
The leading up to the fight was full of hype, especially after Tyson slapped Paul during the weight-in.
However, the action inside the ring did not live up to the anticipation. Tyson’s tired legs failed him after just one round, and he sat back and waited for his opponent to come to him for the majority of the 8-round fight. Paul was not able to land any punch of significance either, with plenty of wild swings and misses.
The fight drew 72,300 fans to the stadium and 60 million more households worldwide. But many were not quite happy. Their dissatisfaction was communicated by boos demanding for more action from both fighters.
“This is one of those situations when you lost but still won,” Tyson posted on X the day after the fight. “I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time.”
He reportedly received US$20 million from the fight, and Paul $40 million.
Nakisa Bidarian, Paul’s business partner, told The Independent: “From day one in this sport, people have doubted his abilities. Jake has not only proven himself repeatedly but he has continuously set historic records that speak for themselves. This event, which broke attendance and viewership milestones for a professional sporting event, is yet another example of his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.”
Paul, who has primarily fought mixed martial artists, including former UFC champions, has knocked out two lesser-known pro boxers before Tyson. His only loss came by decision to Tyson Fury’s half-brother Tommy in early 2023.
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