Mike Tyson is confident that he is in a better place today than he was 20 years ago.
After retiring from professional boxing at the age of 38 in 2005, Tyson made a comeback in 2020 with an exhibition bout against Roy Jones Jr. Now, at 58 years old, Tyson is set to face Jake Paul in a highly anticipated eight-round bout this Friday.
Despite facing criticism from fans for fighting someone 30 years younger, Tyson reassures everyone that he is in a much better state now compared to when he retired.
Tyson opened up about his past struggles with substance abuse and how he has overcome them, stating, “I see a better picture of myself now. I see light. I see the world from a different perspective now.”
Throughout his career, Tyson has faced numerous controversies, including a 1992 rape conviction and struggles with addiction. However, he is now clean and focused on his upcoming bout with Paul.
Despite concerns about his health after a recent medical emergency, Tyson is adamant that he is fully prepared for the fight and has been training rigorously.
Tyson expressed his confidence in his abilities, stating, “I’m sparring young guys and they’re hitting me real hard. It wasn’t a picnic when I first started training. I’m fighting with younger guys and they’re really giving me a shellacking at first.”
The bout is scheduled to take place this Friday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas and will be broadcast live on Netflix. Tyson has hinted that this may not be a one-time return to the ring, leaving the possibility open for future fights.
“Sky is the limit,” Tyson said. “We’ll see. I’m interested in doing it again.”