Jake Paul unconcerned with Mike Tyson's health, says no backup needed for boxing match

Jake Paul doesn’t see the need for a backup fighter to replace Mike Tyson if it comes to that.

Paul (10-1) takes on 58-year-old Tyson (50-6-2) on Nov. 15 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. The pair were originally scheduled to box in July, but the bout was postponed after Tyson had an ulcer flareup. Paul faced Mike Perry instead, stopping him by sixth-round TKO.

Despite Tyson’s health causing their fight to be postponed, Paul, whose Most Valuable Promotions is promoting the fight, hasn’t appointed a reserve. The boxing legend hasn’t laced up the gloves since an exhibition match with Roy Jones Jr. in November 2020 and will compete in a professional bout for the first time in almost 20 years.

“I don’t have concerns,” Paul told TMZ of Tyson’s health. “He’s doing great. He’s super healthy behind the scenes and feeling great. That’s what we’re focused on, and there’s not a backup currently.”

Many professionals and pundits have had an issue with Paul vs. Tyson being sanctioned as an official bout by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations. While Paul respects Tyson, he vows to not hold back.

“A pro fight means war, and I don’t take it lightly,” Paul said. “You can get seriously hurt or injured in there. So, if you’re not in there to go to war, then you should just get out.”