Boxing legend Mike Tyson believes that UFC CEO Dana White's impending foray into the sport could be a game-changer. In a recent interview, Tyson expressed his enthusiasm for White's involvement, stating that his promotional style could revitalize the sport.
Appearing on the It Is What It Is podcast, 'Iron Mike' said:
“That’s going to be the best thing to happen to boxing, just like UFC. If you’re in UFC, and if anybody’s booing the fight, you’re not going to see that guy. His next fight is going to be in South Dakota somewhere. Only good fights. If you don’t have a good fight, you ain’t never going to see that guy again."
Tyson noted White's strict standards for fights in the UFC, where fighters who consistently deliver lackluster performances risk being cut from the promotion. He believes that a similar approach could be applied to boxing, ensuring that only high-quality matchups are presented to fans:
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"Not like boxing, ‘This guy’s going to fight next month again? We don’t want to see that.’ If any fights stink, you’re not back in the UFC no more, you’re never going to see those guys again.” [H/t: MMA Fighting]
Check out Mike Tyson's interview below:
Mike Tyson all set for a clash against Jake Paul
Mike Tyson is set to make a sensational return to the ring, facing off against Jake Paul in a highly anticipated bout scheduled for November 15, 2024. The clash will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, and will be streamed live on Netflix.
The eight-round heavyweight bout between Tyson and Paul is the main event of a stacked fight card featuring a rematch between women's boxing superstars Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano for the super lightweight title. Additionally, the undercard will include a welterweight title fight between Mario Barrios and Abel Ramos, as well as an influencer fight featuring Neeraj Goyat and Whindersson Nunes.
Tyson hasn't fought professionally since 2005, but his legendary status and recent resurgence in popularity have made him a highly sought-after opponent. Paul has gained notoriety for his boxing career, having defeated several former UFC fighters.