It’s been two months since they fought, but Jake Paul and Mike Tyson met once again. However, this time, it wasn’t for a fight. The two gathered at the prestigious inauguration of Donald Trump’s second presidential term. A particular piece of footage from the event seems to have gone viral, drawing a wide range of reactions from fans and followers.

On November 15, Jake Paul and Mike Tyson first met in the ring, in front of nearly seventy thousand spectators at AT&T Stadium, with millions more watching globally. The two fought in an eight-round special rules bout, which ended with Paul’s victory by unanimous decision. The event, part of the MVP-Netflix show, also featured the rematch between Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor as the co-main event. It sparked a flood of reactions from fans and experts alike. Nevertheless, the night proved to be a wholesome spectacle, drawing many casual viewers to the world of boxing.

Jake Paul and Mike Tyson reunite for a cheerful gathering

In the social media posts, Jake Paul tagged Mike Tyson with the caption “Best Friends.” But not many fans seem enthused by what they saw. Amid loud cheers from the gathered crowd, the short video shows the former heavyweight champion sitting on the shoulder of the YouTuber-turned-boxer, who gradually lifts him to even louder cheers.

Raising his right hand, Tyson appears to be shouting enthusiastically. It marked one of the most unexpected returns. Despite retiring in 2005, Mike Tyson made a return nineteen years later to face an opponent thirty years his junior.

The significant age gap and concerns about his physical form raised widespread worries about his health, prompting criticism of the matchup. The fight was not without its share of scrutiny. On one hand, rumors circulated that the November 15 clash was ‘rigged’ or ‘scripted.’ Others speculated that ‘The Problem Child’ may have deliberately gone easy on the former heavyweight champion.

So, the Paul-Tyson get-together didn’t sit well with many fans. A few felt outraged as the video went viral. Let’s check out a few of these reactions.

Fans aren’t buying into any of it

Despite laughing, fans clearly disapprove of Mike Tyson’s actions. As this fan said, “Little less of a Tyson fan now 😂.” Following an icon is subjective. However, at times, the decisions an icon makes can place them under scrutiny. Some fans might even question the sincerity with which they’ve supported the star.

This fan seems deeply disappointed by Jake Paul’s attendance at the event. “Speechless… won’t watch another Jake Paul fight in my life #longliverealboxing 😢,” they said. Likely feeling betrayed or let down, the hashtag ‘#longliverealboxing‘ highlights their criticism of Jake Paul’s involvement in the sport. Many view it as less authentic compared to traditional boxing.

This fan suggested that perhaps financial gains motivated Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. They quipped, “They bamboozled everyone and made millions. I’d be friends too!” The comment reflects a cynical and sarcastic view. Like many, the fan might have felt that the two ‘staged’ the fight for mutual benefit.

Another fan echoed similar feelings. They mentioned, “Best business partners, Jake Paul got paid for beating up an old guy. And Tyson got paid for taking a few punches from a youngster. Yeah, they’re friends.” Given the age difference, this fan’s view has been echoed by many. Rumors that the duel was ‘staged’ persisted for a while. However, Jake Paul and his team have since released an official statement denying such claims.

The age gap continues to be a focal point for criticism, mostly aimed at Jake Paul. Like this fan said, “Keep Jake away from retirement homes.” There’s a thirty-year age gap between Paul and Tyson. It’s not the first matchup of its kind. However, it could raise concerns if it becomes a trend.

Thus, what seemed like an innocuous gathering quickly turned into a barrage of jabs at one of boxing’s greatest fighters.

Fans will now closely watch who Paul faces next. The next matchup is still uncertain. Many will be watching to see if he targets another retired or semi-retired boxer, or perhaps a former UFC champion.

What about you? Do you agree with the fans’ reactions to the Paul-Tyson reunion?