Jake Paul has spoken for the first time since his controversial fight against Mike Tyson was postponed on Friday on medical advice.
YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul was set to face former world champion Tyson on July 20 in Texas, but a recent ulcer outbreak left the 57-year-old unable to train.
The incident was the latest in a series of health problems for Tyson, which included the veteran claiming he once broke his back, being seen in a wheelchair and suggestions he would die soon.
The fight, which will stream exclusively on Netflix, has been classified as a professional fight, meaning Tyson, who turns 58 on June 30, will return to the professional arena for the first time since 2005.
And, reflecting on the postponement, Paul spoke openly about his frustrations on Friday night.
Jake Paul has spoken for the first time since his fight against Mike Tyson was postponed
The pair were scheduled to meet on July 20, but a recent ulcer outbreak left Tyson unable to train.
“Obviously, this is devastating news,” he said in a video shared on
‘I just feel bad for everyone involved in this event, the card. “The opportunity has been taken away from all of us.”
However, despite his personal disappointment, Paul sent his well wishes to Tyson before outlining the impact he believes the fight will have on the boxing world.
He added: “I value Mike’s health above all, I love that guy.” I have a lot of respect for him and I want Mike to be healthy.
And he says he’s still going to knock me out and that I bought myself some time, so Mike keeps talking shit there. You said you wanted to do this in the fourth quarter, I’m ready, you just need a little time, so I’ll be ready when you are.
“This is too big an opportunity and I believe this fight is going to change the world and I will turn all my L’s into W’s and that is a motto I live by…
‘The universe doesn’t make mistakes, so let’s see what it has in store for us. But I’m sorry this didn’t work out for everyone, the fans love you guys.”
Speaking after the fight was postponed, Tyson said: “I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time.”
‘Unfortunately, due to my ulcer, my doctor recommended that I lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover.
‘My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will soon be returning to my full training programme. Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing forever.
“I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”
The incident was the latest in a series of health problems for the former world champion.
The ulcer outbreak in question occurred aboard an American Airlines flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday, May 26, prompting flight staff to ask passengers if there was a doctor on board to provide assistance.
Typical symptoms of an ulcer flare-up include nausea and vomiting, bloating, belching and gas pain, as well as chest pain and fatigue.
Tyson said he was “doing very well” in recovery, but was clearly not in good enough health to continue fighting. He even joked earlier that he “doesn’t need” to be 100 percent to beat Paul.
The fight, which has faced significant criticism due to the large age difference between Paul and Tyson, was also supposed to have a co-main event: the rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano. But that also appears to have been delayed as a result of Tyson’s medical emergency.
In announcing the delay, Most Valuable Promotions, which is organizing the event, said Paul-Tyson will be rescheduled for a later date.
In a statement they said: “The highly anticipated upcoming boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will sadly be postponed.”
“During a follow-up consultation Thursday with medical professionals regarding his recent ulcer outbreak, the recommendation is that Mike Tyson do minimal or light training for the next few weeks and then return to full training without limitations.
‘Both Mike and Jake agree that it is fair to ensure that both athletes have equal training time to prepare for this important match and can compete at the highest level.
Paul was “heartbroken” and “gutted” but said the 57-year-old’s health was more important.
Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano’s co-main event is also likely to be delayed.
‘The health and wellbeing of the athletes is our top priority and we fully support Mike in taking the time necessary to allow him to perform at the level he expects of himself.
“Mike is expected to return to his full training program in the coming weeks and is eager to get back in the ring.
‘MVP anticipates rescheduling the game later this year at AT&T Stadium, and we look forward to an exciting and well-prepared competition between these two exceptional athletes. The new date of the fight will be announced next Friday, June 7.’