Mike Tyson has been accused of ‘selling his pride’ to fight Jake Paul as the fallout from their farcical bout in Texas continues. Last month, the pair went head-to-head over eight rounds at the AT&T Stadium in what was sanctioned as a professional contest, with the fight streamed on Netflix by more than 65million people worldwide.
But far from the event signifying the renaissance of the 58-year-old, once notoriously dubbed ‘The Baddest Man on the Planet’, instead Tyson’s age was apparent as he turned in a toothless display, throwing just 21 punches and seemingly struggling to make the final bell.
He was still reportedly paid around £15.5million for his efforts, equating to nearly £1million a minute, with YouTuber Paul claiming to have made almost double that amount.
It’s ‘The Problem Child’ who has since come in for much of the criticism, having been widely accused of again handpicking a weak opponent and tainting the credibility of boxing. But now Anthony Crolla has said it’s Tyson, who had not fought at pro-level since being beaten by Irish journeyman Kevin McBride in 2005, who should take the flak.
“I think the whole thing was dangerous,” the former WBA lightweight world champion told Express Sport. “But unpopular opinion here, Jake Paul is Jake Paul. An unbelievable businessman as he proved from putting on a show. Mike Tyson’s got to take responsibility for this.”
Speaking on behalf of Freebets, Crolla did admit that the money involved would have tempted any retired boxer, himself included, to step back into the ring. But he also argued that being motivated by the financial aspect didn’t exonerate the former world heavyweight champion from criticism.
“Everyone is saying things about Jake Paul, but Tyson chose to be part of it for an unbelievable pay day. It was an uncomfortable watch,” continued Crolla. “He’s got to take the criticism that comes with his decision.”
Crolla also admitted he struggled to embrace the notion of internet celebrities becoming increasingly influential in boxing. But while he understands the scepticism that surrounds the likes of Paul, 27, he also took aim at the likes of Carl Froch and Andre Ward, who have become embroiled in verbal online feuds with the American and even challenged him to bouts.
“With Jake Paul, you’re getting a lot of pro’s and ex pro’s calling him out,” added Crolla. “When they do that they’re just feeding it. The professionals really don’t like him but they keep people talking about him which is exactly what he wants.”
Crolla currently remains heavily involved in boxing as a coach, with two of his latest proteges, Welsh boxing twins Ioan and Goran Croft, winning on their professional debuts in Ireland this month. But at 38, he insists he won’t be following ‘Iron Mike’ back onto the pro-scene, with only the prospect of a lucrative exhibition fight likely to make him consider a ring return.
“I don’t miss boxing because I’m still around it so much, whether it be with the fighters, doing the punditry, I’m around it more than ever,” he said. “Listen, I miss walking out of a packed out area and people singing my name but no, there will never be any chance of a comeback. If a load of money got offered on a plate to fight a YouTuber it is something I’d probably consider…..but professionally I’m not interested.”
