Mike Tyson, the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history, recently returned to the ring nearly two decades after Kevin McBride stopped him in the sixth round. At 57 years old, Tyson faced 27-year-old Jake Paul in a special rules bout consisting of eight two-minute rounds. Despite his valiant effort, Tyson lost the match via unanimous decision. After the fight, he shared an emotional message with his global fanbase, revealing details about a severe health scare that nearly derailed the event.
In his November 17 post, Tyson disclosed the extent of his medical ordeal. Earlier in the year, he suffered a ruptured ulcer during a flight from Miami to Los Angeles, an incident that landed him in the hospital for over a week. Tyson described the ordeal, saying, “I had a ruptured ulcer, and for a week, I was training tremendously. Everything was great, and then I got sick.” The emergency required eight blood transfusions and resulted in a loss of 25 pounds. Tyson recalled the moment he asked the attending physician if he was going to die, receiving a harrowing response that underscored the severity of his condition.
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.
I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.
To…
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) November 16, 2024
The health scare initially forced the postponement of the fight, originally scheduled for July 20, to November 15. During this time, Tyson underwent a grueling recovery process. He shared how consuming processed food may have triggered his condition, adding that he had urged his wife to stop buying such items. Tyson explained that after eating processed gummies and a pretzel snack, he began experiencing severe stomach pain. While on the flight, his condition worsened, and he passed out, requiring immediate medical attention upon landing.
The former champion described the experience as humbling, revealing that he even contemplated funeral arrangements while in the hospital. Despite the bleak prognosis at one point, Tyson’s condition stabilized, and he gradually returned to training in preparation for his fight against Jake Paul.
Fans and analysts have since debated whether Tyson should retire for good or attempt another comeback. His health scare and subsequent performance against Paul have sparked discussions about his enduring legacy, his current physical capabilities, and the risks associated with continuing to fight at his age. Tyson himself acknowledged the toll the experience took on him, framing his recovery and ability to compete again as a personal victory.
The fight with Jake Paul also raised questions about Tyson’s performance. Some speculated that a contractual agreement might have required him to hold back against the younger, less experienced Paul. However, Tyson maintained that he fought to the best of his ability under the circumstances. Regardless of the outcome, the fight showcased Tyson’s resilience and enduring appeal as one of boxing’s all-time greats.
As fans reflect on Tyson’s journey, many wonder if this bout marked the final chapter in his storied career or if the iconic fighter has one more match left in him. The debate continues as the world watches the evolution of this boxing legend.