Netflix’s first live-streamed sporting event came and went this past Saturday night. Jake Paul and Mike Tyson left much to be desired in the wake of their bout. As it played out, the fight simply looked like one young guy versus a much older guy. There wasn’t much reminiscent of Tyson’s training montages. It left the viewing public feeling robbed. It also left them wondering how legitimate was this whole thing. Did Tyson not throw more punches because of that? Neither one of these fighters had much to lose. However, on a human and health level, people certainly had more concern for Tyson.
I’m a native Brooklynite, and I have always been a fan of Tyson fights. As a kid, I was mesmerized by the aura and the aggression. Even his off-center interviews piqued my interest during fight weekend. Admittedly, my household wasn’t buying the pay-per-views, nonetheless, I was there for the replays and recaps. When Netflix produced the three-part Countdown documentary for this most recent fight, I was encouraged by Tyson’s training. I also figured that the sheer amount of experience that Tyson possesses would’ve allowed him to fair well against Paul.
After such a dismal type showing from Tyson, it was clear to me that this should be it. I’m glad that he got a fly payday, but at some point, you run the risk of blatantly cheating the fans. In addition to that, you run a bigger risk of being seriously hurt in the ring. If Tyson were to fight again, we’re talking about a man who at that point would be as close to 60 years old as it gets. I don’t think it’s necessary. Plus with his recent showing, a better fight isn’t on the horizon.
When asked if this was it, Tyson said that he didn’t think so. He even teased a showdown with Paul’s brother, Logan. But I don’t see it happening. If it were to go down, they damn sure couldn’t sell out a football stadium. In truth, they didn’t sell out “Jerry World” to begin with.
What we were able to witness last weekend was a throwback feel. It was the joys of pop culture moment, meant to bring everyone together. We expected a car crash of some sort that we couldn’t look away from. What we got was a match that many did look away from. It was one that people almost felt guilty for watching. For Netflix, it was an opportunity to get their servers on point for live sports broadcasts. But let’s hope this is the last time Most Valuable Promotions tries an okie doke like this. I’d be fine with Tyson staying retired for good. Nothing can take away from his boxing legacy. But he doesn’t need to beat himself up any longer. Not for nothing, for 90 percent of our population, he’d give them the work.
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