Jake Paul has spoken for the first time since his controversial fight against Mike Tyson was postponed on medical advice on Friday.
YouTuber and boxer Paul was due to take on former world champion Tyson in Texas on July 20, but a recent flare-up of a stomach ulcer has left the 57-year-old unable to train.
The incident was the latest of a number of health problems for Tyson, including the veteran claiming he once broke his back, being spotted in a wheelchair, and suggestions that he will die soon.
The fight, which will air exclusively on Netflix, is 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 looking back on the postponement, Paul spoke about his frustrations on Friday evening.
Jake Paul has spoken for the first time since his fight against Mike Tyson was postponed
The pair were scheduled to face each other on July 20, but a recent ulcer flare-up left Tyson unable to train
“It’s obviously devastating news,” he said in a video shared on X. ‘I am heartbroken, speechless and devastated. We have worked so hard here in this camp.
“I just feel sorry for everyone involved in this event, the undercard. The opportunity has been taken from us all.”
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 appreciate Mike’s health first and foremost, I love that guy. I have so much respect for him and I want Mike to be healthy.
“And he says he’s still going to knock me out and I bought myself some time, so Mike’s still talking there. You said you wanted to do this in the fourth quarter, I’m ready, you just need some time, so I’ll be ready whenever you are.
“This is too big an opportunity and I think this fight is going to change the world and I (will) turn all my L’s into W’s and that’s a motto I live by, so…
‘The universe doesn’t make mistakes, so let’s see what lies ahead. But sorry this didn’t work out for everyone, the fans, I love you.”
After the fight was postponed, Tyson said: “I would like to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time.
‘Unfortunately, due to the flare-up of my stomach ulcer, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten up my training for a few weeks to rest and recover.
‘My body is generally in better shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will soon be back on my full training regime. Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good.
“I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”
The incident was the latest in a number of health problems for the former world champion
The ulcer flare-up in question occurred aboard an American Airlines flight from Miami to LA on Sunday, May 26, forcing flight crews to ask passengers if a doctor was 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 great” in recovery, but was clearly not healthy enough to keep fighting. He even previously joked that he “doesn’t have to be 100 percent” to beat Paul.
The fight – which has been widely criticized due to the huge age difference between Paul and Tyson – would also have a co-main event: the rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano. But that also appears to have been postponed due to Tyson’s medical emergency.
Announcing the delay, Most Valuable Promotions, which organizes the event, said Paul-Tyson will be rescheduled for a later date.
In a statement they said: ‘The upcoming highly anticipated boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson will unfortunately be postponed.
‘During a follow-up consultation on Thursday with medical professionals regarding his recent flare-up of a stomach ulcer, Mike Tyson is recommended to exercise minimally to lightly for the next few weeks and then return to full training without restrictions.
“Both Mike and Jake agree that it is only fair to ensure that both athletes receive equal training time to prepare for this important competition and 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 will also likely be postponed
“The health and well-being of athletes is our top priority, and we fully support Mike in taking the necessary time to ensure he performs at the level he expects of himself.
‘Mike is expected to return to his full training schedule in the coming weeks and is eager to get back in the ring.
“MVP expects to reschedule the match for later this year at AT&T Stadium, and we look forward to an exciting and well-prepared match between these two exceptional athletes. The new date of the fight will be announced next Friday, June 7.”
