Retired UFC fighter claims Jake Paul has contractually made him Mike Tyson's back-up
The contest between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson is one of the most anticipated boxing events of the year but it appears that an alternative plan may be in place.
MMA legend Chael Sonnen has sensationally claimed that he has been written into the contract for Jake Paul's bout with Mike Tyson as a stand-in if the latter is ruled out of the fight. The prospect of the controversial contest between Paul and Tyson has divided the boxing community since its announcement.
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Backed by streaming giants Netflix, the event at Texas' AT&T Stadium on July 20 pits together YouTuber-turned-fighter Paul with the former unified heavyweight world champion Tyson. Separated by 30 years in terms of age, this also represents the first professional bout for the latter in nearly two decades.
His adversary is just ten fights into his own professional career, having made the transition from his days as a Disney child star to an internet celebrity before his forays in the ring. When it comes to Tyson, it still remains to be seen whether he will be able to fight as he will be required to pass electroencephalogram (EEG) and an electrocardiogram (EKG) tests to compete, as per Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation rules.
However, it appears that there is a back-up plan in place if 'Iron Mike' fails the examinations, which will assess his brain and heart health before the event. In fact, ex-UFC star Sonnen has claimed that he could be called on as an alternative, saying on Twitter/X: "I guess it was wise of Jake Paul to write me into the contract as Tyson's backup, wasn't it???"
Followers took to Twitter/X following his post, with one saying: "Don’t tease me Chael. I would flip out if you where coming to Arlington," while to seemed that an enthusiast was still convinced that Paul would prevail, asserting: "Jake wins that Uncle chael. Sorry."
One fan also quipped: "If Tyson doesn’t show up we’ll have another actually good competitor. It’s still kinda funny though how Jake is only going for older guys," while another tipped the MMA icon to beat Paul if they were to face off, adding: "Hell yeah. Would happily see you fight him as a substitution. Honestly I think you would beat him worse than Mike."
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This revelation from Sonnen came after reports emerged that the 57-year-old Tyson had suffered a medical emergency while taking a flight this week. While jetting from Miami to Los Angeles, 'Kid Dynamite' required medical assistance, with the episode confirmed by a spokesperson.
"Thankfully Mr. Tyson is doing great. He became nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare up 30 minutes before landing," a statement read, as his representatives issued an update to the former world champion's fans. "He is appreciative to the medical staff that were there to help him.
As for his upcoming opponent, it appears that he will not be showing any mercy as they face off, as planned, this summer. Paul admitted: "If he has the same opportunity you know damn well he's going to finish me in embarrassing fashion so I have to reciprocate that same energy.
"Mike Tyson is a killer, he's ruthless and he's the most vicious champion ever so I have to channel that Mike Tyson energy to finish him and the legend must fall."