Mike Tyson's leaked purse for Jake Paul fight explains U-turn ahead of press conference

   

As Mike Tyson and Jake Paul prepare to speak to the media, many fans have one question: Why, just why, is this fight happening?

After all, on paper, the prospect of a 58-year-old and 27-year-old going up against each other hardly appeals. It is risky - and there's a reason why the upcoming battle has been so shrouded in controversy.

Tyson insists he's 'feeling great' but health concerns remain after he suffered an ulcer flare up earlier this year.

As Mike Tyson and Jake Paul prepare to speak to the media, many fans have one question: Why, just why, is this fight happening?

After all, on paper, the prospect of a 58-year-old and 27-year-old going up against each other hardly appeals. It is risky - and there's a reason why the upcoming battle has been so shrouded in controversy.

Tyson insists he's 'feeling great' but health concerns remain after he suffered an ulcer flare up earlier this year.

Iron Mike is arguably the best heavyweight boxer of all time, having illuminated the sport during the 1980s and 1990s.

Mike Tyson has performed a U-turn on fighting Jake Paul as the big boxing fight creeps closer

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But, four years on from his showdown against Roy Jones Jr, his return to the ring has many concerned for his safety.

Back in 2022, Tyson said he would never fight Paul. He dismissed the idea, saying he only wants to go up against 'real fighters' - suggesting his young opponent doesn't fall into that category.

“My family loves Jake Paul, I would never, I would never fight him," he said at the time.

"Everyone in my family love this little white motherf****r...

"Let him has his reign, let him have his time.

"I don’t want to fight him man. I fight real fighters.

"I fight fighters that hurt big strong scary men, they’re the ones that I fight.”

However, fast-forward to now, and Tyson has changed his mind. Rightly or wrongly, his return to the ring is nigh.

And money, let's face it, is the reason why. While it's yet to be confirmed how much Tyson is making, former UFC star Henry Cejudo said earlier this year that it was likely to be around $20million.

“I mean, you know what I respect, Uncle Mike… But it obviously takes two to tango," he said earlier this year.

“I feel like there is probably a really good payday for Mike.

"He’s probably going to wind up making close to about 20 mil, and he’s about to turn 58 years old.”

Mike Tyson and Jake Paul will speak at a press conference tonight

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Spanish newspaper Marca also quoted 'unofficial sources' as saying he would be pocketing $20m for returning to the ring.

Therefore, while Tyson and Paul are facing criticism, it's no wonder they're still choosing to press ahead with plans.

Tyson will be paid well and his legacy as a boxing legend is already assured, even if defeat would be a blemish on his record.

Mike Tyson and Jake Paul will do battle on November 15

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Paul has the chance to fight one of the sport's biggest names and enhance his own stock in the process, having won 10 of his 11 professional fights.

Both men will speak to the media tonight.

And the chances of this fight being scrapped, as things stand, look remote with both men adamant the show will go on.