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Dubbed as the most significant bout of the 21st century, heavyweight champion Mike Tyson is making a comeback from retirement to square off against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. What’s more, the showdown is set to take place at none other than AT&T Stadium.
While the fight is still months away, anticipation is building rapidly. Videos of the 57-year-old Tyson training in the gym have only added fuel to the excitement. Despite tickets not being available for sale yet, over 75,000 eager fans have already signed up for presale access, as reported by Paul.
However, not everyone is enthusiastic about the upcoming clash. Arnie Verbeek, the founder of Maple Avenue Boxing Gym in Dallas, where elite athletes train, has voiced his reservations. He believes that the summer showdown could be detrimental to the integrity of the sport, particularly expressing safety concerns about a 27-year-old pitting against a man more than twice his age.
Verbeek emphasized the risks involved, pointing out that Jake Paul lacks the experience of a seasoned professional fighter, while Mike Tyson’s age makes him vulnerable to injury.
According to Vivid Seats, the event ranks among the hottest sports tickets ever at AT&T Stadium, with fans anticipated to travel over 500 miles to witness the spectacle, with each ticket fetching an average of approximately $500.
While the financial allure of the event is undeniable, Verbeek remains skeptical, stating that the substantial purse of 40 million dollars may not outweigh the potential risks involved for both competitors.
The fight is slated for July 20, but whether it will be officially sanctioned as a professional competition remains uncertain. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation disclosed to NBC 5 that while the promoter has requested the event, they are yet to receive proposed details, including the fight card, which will influence the rules governing the bouts. All matches are subject to review and approval by TDLR.