Jake Paul Issues Bold Warning to Mike Tyson Ahead of Fight with Mike Perry
The Problem Child is intent on creating more problems
Jake Paul‘s 2024 is either going to be a smashing success — or a colossal flop. In a few days, boxing fans might know for sure, one way or the other.
Paul was set to fight former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson on July 20 — but that bout has been pushed back to November, owing to Tyson‘s ulcer flare-up in May. Instead, Paul is set to battle bare-knuckle fighter Mike Perry at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida on Saturday. If that bout goes well, it is full speed ahead for the Tyson fight on Nov. 15. But if it doesn’t go well for Paul…all bets might just be off.
Paul: If I don’t beat Perry…
Paul seems to be keenly aware of the gamble he is making by fighting Perry — who has developed a reputation as one of the world’s fiercest bare-knuckle fighters through his UFC exploits. And although his focus is firmly on Perry, Paul understands that he is putting himself in some danger ahead of receiving the biggest paycheck in his life this November.
“A lot of people think I’m crazy for pivoting to this; why Mike Perry, why now, why take the risk, you could lose the biggest payday of your life against Mike Tyson if you lose to Mike Perry who is a violent killer, a bare-knuckle, undefeated legend over there,” Paul told DAZN in a new interview.
Paul has told DAZN and ESPN‘s “Pat McAfee Show” the same thing: if he loses to Perry, the Tyson fight isn’t going to happen.
“This whole entire thing is a giant risk,” Paul said. “I’m focused on July 20, I’m focused on Mike Perry and just being in that mindset is what will lead me to victory.”
So why is Paul choosing to fight Perry, who boasts a perfect 5-0 record as a bare-knuckle fighter? One word: showmanship.
“I need the experience, I need to stay active. I fear no man, I’m ready anytime, any place, anyone, and I truly back that up with my action,” Paul explained to DAZN. “It’s not something I just say walking around. I’m just down to f***ing fight and I love performing.”
Paul understands the bet he’s making, and how easily it could backfire and set his boxing career back. The former YouTube star is going forward with it anyway, and it remains to be seen whether he can ward off Perry’s challenge on Saturday night.
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