The most debated spectacle in boxing has just been granted full legitimacy. Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has officially sanctioned the July 20th clash between YouTube sensation Jake Paul and legendary former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson as a fully professional heavyweight fight.
The announcement, confirmed by Most Valuable Promotions, means every second of every round will be recorded on both men's official professional records. This is a far cry from the exhibition many had anticipated.
The Stakes Are Now Monumental
For Jake Paul, a victory over one of the most feared punchers in history would represent a seismic shift in his boxing credibility, despite the 30-year age gap. For the 57-year-old Tyson, it's a staggering return to the professional ranks he dominated in the 1980s.
The fight will be contested over eight, two-minute rounds. In a nod to fighter safety and the potential for explosive power, both men will wear 14-ounce gloves, heavier than the standard 10-ounce gloves used in most professional heavyweight contests.
A Global Spectacle on Netflix
Shattering the traditional pay-per-view model, the event will be streamed live globally on Netflix, potentially attracting one of the largest live audiences in boxing history from the 80,000-seat AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, stated: "This will be the fight of the year. We are privileged to have Texas sanction this fight as a professional bout, ensuring clarity for the fighters and an unforgettable experience for fans."
The boxing world is now holding its breath. Will 'The Problem Child' pull off the unthinkable, or will 'Iron Mike' turn back the clock with one last, devastating display of power? The professional record books will now forever tell the tale.
