Evander Holyfield has made a startling “retirement” claim about Mike Tyson ahead of his pro bout with Jake Paul.
Tyson will return to action on July 20 to face Paul under the auspices of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), which marks a major shift in policy.
The Tyson vs. Paul fight will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with VIP ticket packages costing an astounding $2 million.
The pair recently embarked on a media tour where they faced off, but fans seem to think the feud is over now.
Holyfield, who had a fierce rivalry with Tyson during his legendary career, sees it differently.
He believes the outcome is up to Paul and even suggested the former world heavyweight champion could “retire” in the ring.
When asked what his predictions were, Holyfield replied: “I don't know. It all depends on how Jake fights.”
“The question is, can Jake Paul hit a good shot?
“I've never seen him get hit by anyone.
“But Mike might get out of the ring, sit down and say, 'I'm done.'”
Mike Tyson and Jake Paul face off ahead of their fight on July 20. Image: Getty
Tyson has not competed professionally since losing to Ireland's Kevin McBride in June 2005.
However, he came out of retirement to face fellow boxing great Roy Jones Jr. in an exhibition fight in November 2020.
The boxing star, who will be 58 by the time he takes on the 27-year-old boxer, has been documenting his training camp on social media and appears to be in great shape, showcasing his legendary hand speed and power.
Meanwhile, Paul defeated Ryan Boland in his last bout to improve his professional record to 9-1.
He boasts wins over Nate Diaz and Anderson Silva and is looking for the biggest win of his career.
Featured image credit: Getty
Topics: Mike Tyson, Jake Paul, boxing