In 1986, at the age of 20, Mike Tyson became the youngest-ever heavyweight champion. He then went to win on the next 19 fights by Knockout. He was the most feared opponent in the boxing realm. Now at 57, he stands as a living legend, an idol, and one of the best in the sport, even today. But Jake Paul, the Problem Child, is maybe on the course to make everyone forget the legend of Mike Tyson.

On 20th July, the perception of Mike Tyson might permanently change, as Jake fights him in the AT&T Stadium in Texas. Could this bout rewrite history? What legacy would Tyson leave for those who’ve never seen his prime? A “bloody sad” prospect, suggests Jeffries, compelling us to ponder the stakes beyond the ring.

The historic impact of Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul

In a thought-provoking Instagram clip, Tony Jeffries, an Olympic medalist with deep roots in the boxing world, candidly expressed his concerns over the upcoming bout between Tyson and Jake Paul. He speculates on a scenario that could significantly tarnish the legendary status of Tyson. “If Jake Paul did land that one punch on Mike Tyson, and he did finish Mike Tyson. I’m not saying he’s going to do it, but if he did, what happens to Mike Tyson’s legacy then?“ he pondered.

Jeffries further elaborated. “The younger generation that doesn’t know who Mike Tyson is the way that I know him, and you probably know him, looking up to him as this living legend, this icon, one of the best to ever do it. He will be remembered by the younger generation as that guy who got knocked out by Jake Paul.  Now imagine that how bloody sad would that be?“ he said, voicing a concern that resonates with many boxing enthusiasts.

Read more: Impressed by “70 Million” Reach, Mike Tyson’s Brutally Honest Take on Jake Paul’s Skills Resurfaces

Accentuating the gravity of his reflection, Jeffries captioned his post with a disclaimer intertwined with a subtle warning: “Again I’m not saying this is going to happen…. In fact, I don’t think it will…. But in boxing, anything can happen, especially when a young, fit strong 27-year-old who CAN punch, fights a 58-year-old.” And this isn’t the first time Tony has opposed this fight.

Jeffries acknowledges knockout potential in Paul’s favor

Tony Jeffries, with his deep-rooted expertise in boxing, acknowledges the high stakes for Mike Tyson in the upcoming bout with Jake Paul. “He has nothing to prove,” Jeffries stated. However, he pointed out the precarious situation Tyson faces: “If it goes horribly wrong for Mike Tyson, he will be remembered by the younger generation as ‘that old boxer that got knocked out by Jake Paul’,” highlighting the potential reputational shift.

Recognizing the fight’s significance, Jeffries admitted, “I’m sorry to say, this is possible.” He noted the contrasting fortunes, emphasizing, “I think this fight is GREAT for Jake, not Mike,” spotlighting the opportunity for Paul against the backdrop of risk for Tyson.

Also Read: Concerned About Mike Tyson’s Health, Dana White Hilariously Proposes 93 Years Old Clint Eastwood Fight to Jake Paul

How will this fight alter our collective memory of Tyson, and what could it herald for the future of celebrity boxing?