In what was billed as the biggest boxing match of 2024, Jake Paul, 27, defeated boxing legend Mike Tyson, 58, by a comprehensive score of 79-73. The eight-round fight at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, went the distance, with Paul dominating throughout, showcasing his youthful energy and speed while Tyson struggled with the effects of age.
Tyson, attempting a strong start, was slow on his feet, and despite his early bursts in the first two rounds, it became clear that his reflexes were no match for Paul’s. By the third round, Paul had gained control, and Tyson’s weariness became apparent. The crowd, which had high expectations for the fight, began to grow impatient as the match progressed, with many hoping for more action from two of the most talked-about fighters in the sport.
In the final moments of the match, Paul bowed down to Tyson, a sign of mutual respect between the two fighters. Paul called Tyson the “G.O.A.T.” (Greatest of All Time), while Tyson referred to Paul as a “good fighter.” The moment of respect did little to alleviate the growing boos from the 72,000 fans who were left disappointed by the lack of action.
The judges scored the fight overwhelmingly in Paul’s favor, with one giving him an 80-72 advantage and the others scoring it 79-73. The fight, which had a much shorter duration than the usual 10 or 12 rounds, with two-minute rounds instead of three, was marked by inefficient punching and wild swings, with both fighters missing numerous blows.
Paul, who is now 11-1 with seven knockouts, reflected on the fight, saying, “I was trying to hurt him a little bit. I was scared he was going to hurt me. I was trying to hurt him. I did my best. I did my best.”
Financially, Tyson is set to earn $20 million from the fight, while Jake Paul will pocket $40 million.