Concern has been shared about the condition of Mike Tyson just days before his highly anticipated boxing match against Jake Paul.
The 58-year-old former champion is set to face the much younger YouTuber-turned-fighter in Texas later this month.
However, a new Netflix documentary has revealed that Tyson suffered a serious health scare, vomiting blood on a flight, which led to the bout being postponed from its original July date.
The documentary, Countdown: Paul v Tyson, shows behind-the-scenes footage of both fighters’ intense training camps, but also reveals the alarming incident that forced the delay.
Tyson’s health has raised concerns, with middleweight champion Denzel Bentley expressing his doubts about the former champion’s ability to compete at a high level.
In an interview with talkSport, Bentley said: “It’s not the Mike Tyson that we know. We saw him make a comeback against Roy Jones Jr and he couldn’t hurt him, so what makes you think he will hurt Jake Paul?
“All he will do is damage his record and legacy as one of our heroes, I won’t be watching it to be honest.”
This will be Tyson’s first fight since an exhibition event in 2020, and his first professional bout since 2005.
The Netflix documentary reveals Tyson pushing himself to the brink, often seen drenched in sweat, reports the Mirror.
After suffering from an ulcer, Tyson is depicted receiving medical care in hospital, with a doctor advising him to moderate his exercise regime.
Despite claims that he toned down his workouts, the documentary hints that Tyson didn’t take his foot off the pedal, with Paul also not easing up.
Fans remain undeterred by concerns over the ex-world champion’s health, with many voicing their predictions online.
One fan speculated on social media: “Just throwing this out there: Mike Tyson is going to destroy Jake Paul in under 4 rounds.”
Another remarked: “I think Jake Paul is in for a surprise. As a boxer, I think you (Tyson) are more deadly now in the ring.”
The Texas Department of License and Regulation has confirmed they will assess the health of both fighters before the bout.
Yet, they won’t test Tyson until just days prior to the fight.
A spokesperson stated: “TDLR is aware of media reports regarding an episode involving Mr. Tyson. At present, Mr. Tyson and Mr. Paul have met the medical requirements for this event.
“Before the event, TDLR will conduct pre-fight physicals to ensure the health of both fighters.”
Tyson himself has sought to reassure fans, insisting he’s in top shape.
Countdown: Paul vs Tyson is streaming on Netflix.