The real reason why Mike Tyson slapped Jake Paul during final face-off

Mike Tyson caught the attention of the combat sports world after slapping Jake Paul at their ceremonial weigh-ins on Thursday (Nov. 14). The pair are set to clash on Friday (Nov. 15), in what will be Tyson's first professional fight since 2005.

With speculation surrounding the reason for the slap still circulating, an insider close to 'Iron Mike' told First Post that the former heavyweight champion reacted to Paul stepping on his foot.

In an interview taken with GQ Sports five years ago, the Brooklyn native stated that he had "the worst feet in the world". He continued stating that if anybody stood on his feet, he would "totally tap out".

Watch the video below:

In new footage that was uploaded to X by @ChampRDS, 'The Problem Child' can be seen stepping on the toes of Tyson as he closes the distance for the face-off.

Check out Mike Tyson slapping Jake Paul below:

It appears that tempers are finally reaching boiling point as the pair of pugilists prepare to meet in the squared circle in a much anticipated clash.

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Jake Paul reacts to Mike Tyson slapping him

Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will go to war at the AT&T Stadium in Texas.

With 'Iron Mike' having retired from professional boxing in 2005, he has sought to attain a more peaceful state of mind after years of mental and physical warfare. Tyson has been candid about his use of psychedelic drugs to help him reach a calmer state of mind.

But ahead of his return to boxing's professional ranks, the former heavyweight champion has admitted that his former-self has begun to rear its head. The tenacity and aggression that Tyson was infamous for during his career was on display as he slapped Paul on stage ahead of their clash.

'The Problem Child' shared his reaction to the incident in the immediate aftermath while talking to Ariel Helwani, and said:

"I didn't even feel it. He's angry, he's an angry little elf. Mike Tyson, I thought that was a cute slap buddy. But tomorrow you're getting knocked the f**k out. I'm f**king him up Ariel! I'm f**king him up! He hits like a b**ch! It's personal now! He must die!"

Catch Jake Paul's reaction to Mike Tyson slapping him below (1:04:55):