Mike Tyson’s fight against Jake Paul could be over in 30 seconds, according to the boxing legend’s former trainer. The bout between the ex-heavyweight champion of the world and the YouTube-turned-boxer will now take place on November 15.
The original July date was shelved after Tyson, 58, was diagnosed with a flare-up of an ulcer problem. Given his age, 31 years Paul’s senior, there are question marks over whether Iron Mike should be stepping into the ring at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium in Texas.
Former three-weight world champion Jeff Fenech knows Tyson well having trained the 'Baddest Man of the Planet' at the end of his professional career in the mid-2000s. The Australian, who was in Tyson's corner for his last pro fight – a knockout defeat to Kevin McBride back in 2005 – has reservations but reckons it could be a short and easy night for his friend if he's clever.
“If it was my decision, I’d much prefer him not fight at all, but he’s going to fight,” Fenech told the Mirror. “I spoke to him about the fight. Realistically, if Mike uses upstairs and nothing else, and does the right things, this could be the easiest money he’s ever made.
“When you’re both throwing punches, it’s a 50/50 thing who lands. But if Mike concentrates and makes him miss, and then makes him pay… That’s what Mike’s an expert in, he’s got great head movement.
“If he does that in 30 seconds, the fight could be over in 30 seconds. Mike just needs to use his common sense, don’t try to punch when he’s punching, make him miss and make him pay.”
Paul, whose only career defeat came against Tommy Fury, has never boxed anyone in Tyson’s class. Fenech believes the 27-year-old won’t be able to handle his opponent’s power.
“Jake Paul doesn’t have the skill, the boxing knowledge,” added Fenech, 60. “I’ve watched him but anyone can punch a pad or a bag or someone who really can’t fight. When you’re bigger and you’re stronger, that’s all good.
“But Mike, as a heavyweight, was a great defensive fighter. He could slip and make people miss. If he does that and lands a counter-punch, then the fight is going to be over.
“There’s not a chance in the world Jake Paul can take a Mike Tyson hook, a Mike Tyson right hand or a Mike Tyson uppercut. That’s what I’m hoping [for]. I love Mike, he’s a great friend, he’s like family to me. I just hope everything goes well.”
