Jake Paul defeated Mike Tyson by unanimous decision after 8 2-minute round on Friday night, scoring the fight at 80-72, 79-73 and 79-73.
The fight was underwhelming for many, with 58-year-old Tyson landing only 18 of the 97 punches he threw.
Plenty of sporting greats made their feelings clear about the match. Former heavyweight champ and Tyson’s past boxing foe Evander Holyfield said the fight “wasn’t a good one”. Basketball legend Magic Johnson tweeted that he found the bout so “sad” that he turned off his TV. He added, “This fight tonight was not great for boxing.”
Paul, 27, has been criticized for fighting a man nearly three decades older. He gave Tyson his dues, however, saying in the ring post-fight, “First and foremost, Mike Tyson, it’s an honor. He’s a legend and the greatest to ever do it. He’s the G.O.A.T. I look up to him and am inspired by him. It was an honor being able to fight him. He’s the baddest man on the planet. It was really tough like I expected it to be.”
Tyson’s taken his defeat in stride, though, sharing, “This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time.”