Social Media Star Jake Paul To Face Boxing Legend Mike Tyson In Netflix’s First Live Combat Sports Show

Social media sensation turned boxer, Jake Paul, is set to step into the ring against former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson on July 20.

The streaming giant will provide live coverage of the bout, marking its debut in live sports production.

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The clash between the 27-year-old Paul and the 57-year-old Tyson will be the main event of Netflix’s first foray into combat sports.

Tyson, who has not fought since his exhibition bout with Roy Jones Jr in November 2020, will face Paul, a YouTube influencer who transitioned into a professional boxing career four years ago.

The nature of the bout, whether a professional fight or an exhibition, remains uncertain, pending approval from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which oversees boxing in the US.

“My sights are set on becoming a world champion, and now I have a chance to prove myself against the greatest heavyweight champion of the world, the baddest man on the planet and the most dangerous boxer of all time. Time to put Iron Mike to sleep,” Paul said on X, formerly Twitter.

Tyson also shared his thoughts on the upcoming fight: “I’m very much looking forward to stepping into the ring with Jake Paul at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.”

 “It’s a full circle moment that will be beyond thrilling to watch; as I started him off on his boxing journey on the undercard of my fight with Roy Jones and now I plan to finish him.”

The announcement has sparked controversy within the industry. UFC great Michael Bisping and mixed martial artist Dillon Danis took to social media to criticize Paul’s choice of opponent. 

Bisping tweeted, “You should be ashamed of yourself,” Bisping said.

The match is scheduled at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, making it Netflix’s third venture into live sporting events.

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