The Mycenaean

If you’ve been on social media at all in the past couple days, you would know that the return of Iron Mike Tyson happened on November 26. After nearly 20 years since Tyson’s prime, he has come out at 58 years-old to fight against Jake Paul. Who is a  former YouTuber known for his viral videos with a group known as Team 10. 

With Jake Paul and infamous Iron Mike, we have to look at their fighting history. Tyson has a win count of 50-7 with a total of 44 knockouts, Paul has a win count of 10-1, a fifth of what Tyson has. 

In the weeks leading up to the fight, social media played a massive role in building anticipation and suspense. Both Tyson and Paul have vast followings online, and their constant updates, training videos, and trash talk helped to create excitement around the event.

Owen Mcginnis, senior said, “I think social media has a big impact on how people view this fight, like how some see it as a gimmick fight, which brings more attention to it.” Mcginnis thinks that even if you believe the fight is scripted or not, people still turned it on and watched it.

When the two finally stepped into the ring, the energy was palpable. Tyson, despite being years removed from his prime, looked to be in impressive shape. Paul, on the other hand, seemed eager to prove that he belonged in the ring with one of the sport’s all-time greats.

The first few rounds were an intense back-and-forth. Tyson, known for his aggressive and close-quarters style, looked to pressure Paul with his trademark head movement and explosive combinations. Paul, though less experienced, showcased the improved technique that he’s been honing through his recent bouts. He was able to avoid most of Tyson’s heavy blows, leaning on his defensive skills and his jabs to keep Tyson at bay.

As the fight wore on, it became clear that Tyson’s age was a factor. Though still capable of landing some powerful punches, Tyson’s stamina and speed weren’t what they once were almost two decades ago.

Tyson’s raw power still showed flashes of his old brilliance, but Jake Paul’s poise and ability to avoid the worst of Tyson’s attacks were commendable. In the end, the judges ruled in favor of Jake Paul, giving him a controversial but well-publicized victory over the boxing legend.

The outcome of the Tyson vs. Paul fight has sparked mixed reactions. While some fans praised Paul for taking on one of the greatest of all time and coming away with a victory, others dismissed the match as a money grab — a farce that tarnished Tyson’s legacy.

Commentary and thoughts towards Paul have been very inconsistent, some let their biases take over their thoughts and trash talked Paul’s fighting ability, while others are able to admit he is a professional boxer. 

Aaron Hannon, senior said, “I think he’s a talented boxer, and anyone who dislikes Jake Paul might feel otherwise but I dislike him and definitely think he’s a good boxer.” 

This fight has undoubtedly brought more eyes to the sport of boxing — especially among younger fans who might not otherwise have paid attention. With more celebrities and influencers  jumping into the ring, it’s clear that the intersection of sports, entertainment, and social media has created a new era for combat sports, one that is driven by hype as much as athleticism.