Mike Tyson must pass an unusual test before facing Jake Paul.
Mike Tyson’s fight against Jake Paul could be cancelled if ‘Iron Mike’ fails some unusual tests.
Boxing legend Tyson and YouTuber-turned-fighter Paul are set to meet in an eagerly anticipated bout on July 20 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The fight will be a pro bout, Tyson’s first since 2005 when he lost to Ireland’s Kevin McBride, who now lives a very different life.
However, fresh doubts were cast over the fight after the 57-year-old suffered a medical emergency on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday.
According to his representatives, Tyson became nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare and received medical attention.
But he is now doing ‘great’, per his team.
“Thankfully Mr. Tyson is doing great,” the boxer’s representatives said. “He became nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare up 30 minutes before landing. He is appreciative to the medical staff that were there to help him.”
A source said: “Mike had some kind of medical emergency on the plane and paramedics boarded.
“Before the paramedics arrived the flight issued an announcement asking for a doctor – the message even came on everyone’s screens.”
Given the age difference between the two fighters – Tyson will be 31 years older than 27-year-old Paul come fight night – there were already concerns about the former heavyweight world champion’s health.
Mike Tyson and Jake Paul go head-to-head. Image: Getty
Even when taking the recent scare out of the equation, the fight will be cancelled if Tyson fails a health test written into the fight rules by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Speaking to USA Today Sports, TDLR communications manager Tela Mange explained that fighters over the age of 36 must submit favourable results from an electroencephalogram (EEG) and an electrocardiogram (EKG).
An EEG is used to evaluate brain disorders whilst an EKG is used to detect heart problems.
“We can also request additional testing if we think it’s appropriate,” Mange said.
Though the fight will be classified as a pro bout, the two fighters will contest eight round of two minutes rather than three, and will wear 14-ounce gloves that are heavier than usual.
