Legendary heavyweight boxer Mike Tyson expressed gratitude despite losing a unanimous decision to Jake Paul in their headline heavyweight bout on Friday night. The fight, held at AT&T Stadium in Dallas before 72,300 fans and a global audience of 60 million households via Netflix, marked Tyson’s return to the ring at age 58.
“This is one of those situations where you lose but still win,” Tyson posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday. “I’m grateful for last night. No regrets for getting in the ring one last time.”
Mike Tyson revealed that his journey to the fight was marked by severe health challenges. The bout, initially scheduled for July, was delayed after Tyson suffered a medical emergency during a flight in May. The former champion disclosed that he had vomited blood and subsequently required eight blood transfusions, losing half his blood and 25 pounds during his hospitalisation.
“I almost died in June,” Tyson admitted. “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.”
Paul, meanwhile, celebrated the fight’s record-breaking viewership and teased his next challenge. “Record-breaking. Love you, Mike,” Paul posted on X. “Numbers don’t lie. Announcement coming soon…”
While Tyson has not ruled out another return to the ring, the 58-year-old is savouring the moment, calling it a triumphant comeback after overcoming significant adversity.
