The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has officially sanctioned the July 20 bout between Mike Tyson and YouTuber Jake Paul as a professional fight, despite Tyson's 19-year hiatus from professional boxing. This decision was informed by various criteria traditionally used to evaluate a boxer's fitness for a fight, which seem somewhat dated in Tyson's case.
Specifically, the department considered Tyson's extensive history in the ring, which includes 56 bouts dating back to 1986 against notable figures like Michael Spinks, Larry Holmes, Evander Holyfield, and Lennox Lewis, accumulating 215 career rounds, 22 of which ended in first-round knockouts or stoppages. Jake Paul, 27, by contrast, has only participated in 10 bouts and 46 rounds in his burgeoning, novelty career. The fight, scheduled to be streamed on Netflix from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, will consist of eight two-minute rounds, with the fighters wearing 14-ounce gloves, larger than the usual 10 ounces, and no headgear.
Tela Goodwin Mange, a spokesperson for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, emphasized the comprehensive evaluation undertaken to ensure the event’s safety and compliance with regulatory standards. “Our combative sports staff evaluate numerous factors to determine if an event can be held in a manner that is safe for both contestants and in compliance with department laws and rules,” she stated. In addition to reviewing Tyson’s medical prerequisites and required medical tests, the Texas Combative Sports Advisory Board also inspected video footage of his sparring and training sessions to ensure his physical readiness for the fight.
The upcoming bout has stirred mixed reactions, balancing concerns over Tyson’s age and vulnerability to injury against the excitement of his return to the ring. Yet, Texas officials have reiterated their commitment to prioritizing fighter safety over any potential profits from the event.
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