Former world boxing champion Tony Bellew disrupted the press conference for Mike Tyson and Jake Paul’s upcoming fight by introducing a retiree as the YouTuber-turned-wrestler’s next opponent.
A press conference was held on Wednesday to promote Tyson’s long-awaited return at the age of 58 against Paul, 27, this Friday.
As ESPN’s Andreas Hale opened media questions, Bellew, equipped with his own microphone, began speaking from one of the rows behind the press as part of a stunt for British bookmakers Paddy Power.
“It doesn’t matter what the question is,” Bellew says as the older gentlemen, wrapped in a green robe and green gloves, began shadow boxing alongside him.
‘Jake Paul, the biggest clown in boxing. If Mike lets you survive Saturday night, then here’s your next opponent, Jake.
Tony Bellew mocked Jake Paul by introducing a retiree as his next opponent on Wednesday
Paul was trolled by the former world champion in the press for his fight against Mike Tyson
Confused, host Ariel Helwani responded by asking if it was Bellew or British UFC star Darren Till who caused the interruption.
“I’m Tony Bellew, Ariel,” the Englishman confirmed. ‘Ariel, if Mike lets him survive Saturday night, I’ll have a great-grandfather, not a grandfather (here).
‘This guy has two hips, two new hips. “So this guy is ready for him,” he continued.
‘He is 107 years old, he is a great-grandfather. He’ll give you the chance, I promise.
“Come on, Jake, give this guy a chance,” he added as security tried to take his microphone away before escorting him out of the event.
On 12 November, Bellew launched his partnership with Paddy Power with a promotional video in which he scouted England for Paul’s next opponent.
Bellew then heads to a retirement home to test the boxing and trash-talking skills of some of its male residents.
Paul will fight Mike Tyson, 58, in the first boxing event broadcast on Netflix
The part was inspired by Paul fighting the boxing legend, who is 30 years his senior and 19 years after his last professional fight.
Additionally, Paul has earned a reputation for fighting MMA stars and other athletes past their prime. The Problem Child has wins over Tyron Woodley, Ben Askren, Anderson Silva, Nate Robinson, Nate Diaz and Mike Perry beyond the peak of his powers.
The fight is expected to be the biggest for any boxing event outside of Las Vegas and is the first live combat sports event to air on Netflix.