Mike Tyson’s Last Trainer Has Seen Jake Paul Fight And Now Delivers Honest Verdict: “No Chance”
Image credit: Netflix
Kerr Ferguson
In just one month’s time, Mike Tyson returns to boxing for a controversial contest with Jake Paul.
‘Iron’ Mike still hold the record as the youngest every heavyweight champion, achieved during a meteoric rise in the sport in which opponents were extremely lucky to make it to the second half of the fight.
A prison stint and problems outside of the ropes saw Tyson’s career derail. Many feel he never reached his full potential. In 2005, after back-to-back losses, he hung up the gloves citing a lack of desire for fighting.
The man in the corner for that bouts was Jeff Fenech, the Australian former world champion turned trainer who also prepped the heavyweight legend for his exhibition against Roy Jones Jr in 2022.
Fenech – who is recovering from heart surgery but has been in contact with ‘Iron’ Mike – told Mirror Fighting that he would rather the fight wasn’t happening but still talked up Tyson’s talent.
“If it was my decision, I’d much prefer him not fight at all, but he’s going to fight. I’ve spoken to him a few times [recently]. I spoke to him about the fight. Realistically, if Mike uses upstairs and nothing else, and does the right things, this could be the easiest money he’s ever made.”
After seeing clips of Jake Paul train as well as some of his fights, Fenech is convinced that his man has what it takes to get an early knockout.
“The fight could be over in 30 seconds. Mike just needs to use his common sense, don’t try to punch when he’s punching, make him miss and make him pay.
Jake Paul doesn’t have the skill, the boxing knowledge. I’ve watched him but anyone can punch a pad or a bag or someone who really can’t fight. When you’re bigger and you’re stronger, that’s all good.
But Mike, as a heavyweight, was a great defensive fighter. He could slip and make people miss. If he does that and lands a counter-punch, then the fight is going to be over.
There’s not a chance in the world Jake Paul can take a Mike Tyson hook, a Mike Tyson right hand or a Mike Tyson uppercut. That’s what I’m hoping [for]. I love Mike, he’s a great friend, he’s like family to me. I just hope everything goes well.”
The fight – to be streamed live on Netflix – takes place on November 15 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
