The massive hype behind Mike Tyson taking on YouTuber turned boxer Jake Paul really got the world going. The mammoth clash roped in 65 million viewers globally proving to be quite a success. Even though the lackluster bout didn’t live up to the hype, it still managed to do good numbers. However, there was one particular moment that irked UFC champion Jon Jones.
After getting a vicious third round TKO over Stipe Miocic, Jones spoke about Paul vs Tyson. Sitting down in the post-fight presser, Jon Jones addressed one strange moment that really made him laugh. Backstage footage of ‘Iron Mike’ donning a strange outfit wasn’t something that anyone anticipated, and neither did Jones.
I did catch the fight. It was hard to see him so old; you know? Roy Jones Jr. kept saying those legs aren’t working… I wish he didn’t show us his a**. That was a little wild (laughs). Mike, you didn’t have to do that. Mike’s a freak, I bet. I am like you, nasty old man. You old dirty b***ard you.
Jon Jones via UFC 309 post-fight presser
Tyson’s outing against Paul did not merit the main-event spotlight and month long build up. This made the fans furious, who had awaited to see more action. The 58-year-old retired boxer seemed to struggle heavily during his walk to the ring and even had knee braces on. Previously, Tyson suffered health complication, that postponed the fight once before.
The way that the Netflix fight unfolded made Jones feel quite relieved. Not only did ‘Iron Mike’ rake in millions, but he also managed to come out of it without a scratch. The UFC champion respected the legendary boxer for the effort. He also gave his thoughts on the fight and praised Paul for playing a smart game.
Jon Jones praises Jake Paul for a brilliant game plan against Mike Tyson debunking mercy claims
Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson left the world drawing up their own conclusions. One of the theories that made rounds suggested Tyson being shown mercy by Paul, who allegedly did not press on. Putting these rumors to the ground, Jones reacted to the fight with words of praise for Paul.
Jon Jones doesn’t believe Jake Paul showed mercy against Mike Tyson (Image via Open Source)Taking full advantage of his youth, ‘The Problem Child’ chose to engage from a distance. Despite being severely limited in movement, Tyson showed great resilience in slipping out of powerful punches and landing a few of his own. As such, Jones felt the younger Paul brother wanted to avoid devastating punches from the legendary boxer.
I don’t think Jake gave him mercy. I think Jake played it smart; I think that’s what it was. Jake knows that, you’re winning. Let’s stop while you are ahead. Let’s coast, let’s get through this fight. Cause Mike can drop anyone with one shot.
Jon Jones via UFC 309 Post Fight Presser
Paul and Jones have a good relationship. In recent times, the MMA community have accused the UFC heavyweight champion of ducking Tom Aspinall. However, ‘The Problem Child’ vouched for Jones saying the UFC champion would accept it if $25 million were on the table. Paul always collaborates with UFC fighters. As such, some sort of collaboration might happen between Jones and Paul in the future.
