In a showdown that fused boxing’s rich history with its unpredictable future, Mike Tyson and Jake Paul faced off in a bout that drew massive attention worldwide. Despite Paul’s booming boxing career, many fans and experts speculated that the fight was rigged, especially since ‘The Problem Child’ appeared to lack the urgency to knock out the 58-year-old Tyson.
But not everyone shares that view. UFC star Sean O’Malley and his coach Tim Welch have a different take on the fight, suggesting that things may not have been as they seemed.
Sean O’Malley shares his honest opinion on the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Critics have raised eyebrows over Mike Tyson’s performance, suggesting that the former heavyweight champion, known for his ferocious knockout power, seemed unusually restrained in the fight. His failure to unleash the aggression that once defined his legendary career, combined with Jake Paul’s apparent ability to hold his own against a seasoned veteran, led some to question whether the fight was rigged.
The pacing of the bout also raised suspicions, with some claiming both fighters focused more on putting on a spectacle than competing at full intensity. However, former UFC 135lbs king Sean O’Malley and his coach Tim Welch have a different perspective. The pair shared their thoughts on their YouTube channel, expressing disappointment over the rigging claims that followed the fight.
While they enjoyed watching the match, O’Malley defended Tyson’s performance, praising him for going the full eight rounds against a much younger opponent. Tyson, who had faced significant health challenges leading up to the fight, showed remarkable resilience in putting on a competitive display. O’Malley, speaking candidly, said, “People still say this the Mike Tyson one was rigged. It drives me crazy. I’m like bro they were trying to knock each other out in there. And I’m sure war like nah f..k was.”
View this post on Instagram
One of the individuals who expressed significant concern about the fight was UFC color commentator Joe Rogan. A longtime fan of Mike Tyson, Rogan had always been vocal about his reservations regarding the bout. On a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, he shared his relief after seeing Tyson emerge from the fight without any major issues.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Joe Rogan is happy for Mike Tyson after he faced no problems in his fight with Jake Paul
UFC commentator Joe Rogan has been outspoken about his disapproval of the fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul on multiple occasions. On The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Rogan expressed his concerns about the decision to match a 58-year-old Tyson—who was also recovering from a recent medical emergency—against a much younger and active competitor. He admitted that his primary worry heading into the fight was Tyson’s safety, given the risks associated with someone of his age and health condition.
Reflecting on the event in a recent episode, Rogan revealed how relieved he was that the fight concluded without any serious mishaps. He said, “But the reality is, Mike is 58 years old, and I was worried. You know, I just… I love that guy, and he was a hero of mine when I was a kid. So, to see him, you know, 58 years old, fighting…”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While he acknowledged his concerns for Tyson, Rogan also took a moment to praise Jake Paul’s rise in the boxing world. He commented, “I don’t have anything against Jake Paul. I like Jake Paul and I think what he’s doing is genius. I think what he’s doing is, like, I mean, he’s making insane amounts of money, he’s having a great time, and he’s a legit boxer. He’s absolutely a legit boxer.”
What are your thoughts on Mike Tyson’s performance against Jake Paul? Do you think it was the right fight for Tyson at his age, or was it more about entertainment? Let us know in the comments below.
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
Challenge Your Sports Knowledge!
Solve the puzzle and prove your knowledge of iconic players, terms, and moments.
Debate
Was Tyson's fight with Jake Paul a true boxing match or just a spectacle for the cameras?
What’s your perspective on:
Was Tyson's fight with Jake Paul a true boxing match or just a spectacle for the cameras?
Have an interesting take?