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Mike Tyson’s fight against Jake Paul postponed after medical incident

Mike Tyson speaks onstage at the press conference to promote the upcoming Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match at the Apollo Theater on May 13, 2024 in New York City. Photo by Steve Ferdman/UPI
Mike Tyson speaks onstage at the press conference to promote the upcoming Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match at the Apollo Theater on May 13, 2024 in New York City. Photo by Steve Ferdman/UPI | Licensed Photo

June 1 (UPI) – Mike Tyson’s fight was postponed less than a week after the former heavyweight champion suffered a medical emergency on a flight involving paramedics.

Tyson, 54, was examined after the incident on Sunday on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles.

“During a follow-up visit with medical professionals on Thursday regarding his recent stomach ulcer, Mike Tyson was advised to undertake minimal to light training over the next few weeks and then return to full training without restrictions,” said a statement from combat sports promoter Most Valuable Promotions.

“Both Mike and Jake agree that it is only fair to ensure that both athletes have equal time to train to prepare for this important match and compete at the highest level. The health and wellbeing of the athletes is our top priority and we fully support Mike in taking the time he needs to perform at the level he expects of himself.”

The fight was scheduled for July 20 and was to air on Netflix. Paul, 27, is coming from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

“The fight will be rescheduled for later this year after Mike can resume training without restrictions and both fighters have equal time to prepare for this once in a lifetime fight! Stay tuned, the new fight date will be announced late next week at http://tudum.com/paulvstyson.

You don’t need to do anything to keep your current tickets and seats. To request a refund, contact SeatGeek at (email protected) with the subject line “Paul vs. Tyson.”

It was supposed to be Tyson’s return to the ring since his fight against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020. Tyson resigned in 2005 after his rule as a world heavyweight Champion from 1987-1990.

Tyson became nauseous and dizzy during the flight “due to a stomach ulcer 30 minutes before landing.” Passengers reportedly waited on the plane for 25 minutes after landing at LAX while paramedics treated Tyson.

Ten days later, on June 30, the former boxing champion turns 58.

“I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. Unfortunately, due to the recurrence of my stomach ulcer, my doctor has advised me to reduce my training for a few weeks to rest and recover,” Tyson said. “My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will be back to my full training program soon. Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing forever. I appreciate everyone’s patience and I can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”

“I fully support the postponement of the event so that Mike Tyson has no excuses on fight night,” said Jake Paul. “My fans know that I only want to face Iron Mike at my best, but let’s make no mistake – when he steps into the ring with me, I will be ready to take my victory with a sensational finish. Paul vs. Tyson will be a fight for the ages and I promise to give my best in this once in a lifetime clash.”