Mike Tyson showed up, put on a brave face, and fought till the end. He had a point to prove to himself—that he could hang in the ring with a fighter half his age. And he did it. But there is more to it. The boxing legend has confessed to a near-death experience, which has the boxing world wishing for his better health.

Tyson, 58, fought Jake Paul this past Friday. He went the distance but failed to secure the win. However, he earned the boxing community’s respect for his spirit. In the post-fight confession, the former world champion opened up about his health struggles.

Mike Tyson makes a jarring admission

Tyson, at 50-7, turned to his X handle and disclosed what the fight meant to him. In addition, he revealed how he had a near-death experience in June, where he lost 25 pounds and lost half of his blood. He wrote, “I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.”

Then, expressing his experience of fighting before his family in a sold-out arena, ‘Iron Mike’ said, “To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for. Thank you 🙏.” But his revelation and fighting display struck an emotional cord with the fans, as they turned to the comment section and shared their opinions.

Fans shower love on ‘Iron Mike’

Paul, at 11-1, was among the first to respond. Lauding the former heavyweight champion, he said, “Love you Mike. It was an honor. You’re an inspiration to us all.” Paul, 27, had also shown his respect for Tyson as he bowed before him in the final seconds of the fight and decided not to go for the knockout.

Donald Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr. also heaped praise on Tyson. He called him a legend and penned, “You’re the man buddy. A true legend. Well done.” He sat through the whole event with his kids and watched the Brooklyn native try to turn back the clock. While it didn’t happen, he commended Tyson for his resilience and determination.

Tristan Tate also shared similar sentiments. He declared, “Take care of yourself Mike. We all love you.” Tyson had come into the fight with a troubled history of medical issues, such as sciatica and an ulcer flare-up. But Tyson could now focus on maintaining his health.

A fan pointed out the risk Tyson took to secure the payout. They announced, “You took a risk to secure $20m for your kids. It’s time for you to relax and enjoy life champ.” While there was no confirmation about the official payouts, boxing industry analysts put the numbers close to $20 million.

Lastly, someone believed the fight would have panned out differently if Tyson was still in his prime. They claimed, “If you sent Jake back in time to fight 1988 Iron Mike, he wouldn’t have woken up until last night. Enjoy your life and your family, champ. You’re still the GOAT.” Tyson, in his prime, was a brutal knockout artist, as suggested by his KO ratio of 88%, and he would have easily brushed aside Paul.

What do you make of this confession by Mike Tyson? Let us know in the comments below.