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In just a few years, Jake Paul has made a name for himself in the combat sports world, securing a boxing match with none other than the legendary Mike Tyson. The age difference between the two fighters has become a major talking point leading up to the bout. So, just how old is “The Problem Child”?
Mike Tyson, the former heavyweight champion, will step into the ring on July 20 at the age of 58, with only one boxing match in the last two decades. His birthday falls on June 30. In contrast, Jake Paul has quickly built a professional boxing record of 9-1 with six wins by knockout, all within the past four years. When Paul steps into the ring at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, he will be 27 years old.
This 31-year age gap between Paul and Tyson is quite unusual in boxing, as sanctioning bodies typically avoid matchups with such significant age differences, especially when one fighter is close to being considered a senior citizen.
Born on January 17, 1997, Paul won’t even turn 28 until next year. While Tyson remains the most decorated boxer Paul has ever faced, with a professional record of 50-6 with two no-contests, including 44 wins by KO/TKO, it’s worth noting that age can significantly impact a boxer’s performance.
Despite Tyson’s impressive training videos and fierce appearance, there’s a notable difference between hitting mitts in training and facing a heavy-handed opponent in a real fight, particularly when there’s a substantial age gap.
In reality, regardless of whether Paul is 27 or 37, many would have concerns about Tyson facing a younger opponent. A boxer’s prime typically ends in their 30s, and fighting past this age can lead to diminished physical abilities, including timing, accuracy, and resilience.
Medical experts, including Dr. Stephen Hughes, have expressed concern about Tyson’s return to the ring at almost 58 years old, citing the increased risk of brain trauma and cardiac events in older individuals undergoing intense physical activities.
While there are risks for both fighters, with no human being immune to brain trauma, Paul’s youth could give him an advantage in the match. As for how the fight will unfold, only time will tell!