Roy Jones Jr and Mike Tyson enjoyed an exhibition during the COVID-19 pandemic playfully titled Lockdown Knockdown.
The bout – which was scored a draw after eight rounds – went well with both men understanding the assignment and putting on a show for fans. On the undercard was Jake Paul, the brash YouTuber looking to make a name for himself in the sport.
Fast forward to today and Tyson will face Paul in a pro contest over eight two minute rounds. The fight has drawn considerable criticism due to the 30-year age gap.
Jones – who has called ‘Iron’ Mike the hardest puncher he’s been in the ring with – previously offered his opinion on how either man might win but has now made a proper prediction to FightHype.
“I think it’s a great fight and a great marketing situation as well because a lot of people want to see it. It’s a young lion and an old lion. It’s a great situation for them. It gives Jake a chance with Mike being as old as he is. I think it’s a great opportunity for both fighters but I still think Mike is gonna be a little bit too much for Jake.”
Jones was asked if Paul’s youth may overwhelm the 58-year-old vet. He said it could later in the fight but that Tyson would make the first three rounds ‘devastating.’
“If [Jake] can get to round four or five maybe, yeah, but he has to get out of them first three rounds … [Mike’s] still got the power. The first three rounds are gonna be devastating … [If Mike catches him] it’s over, if he throws them. You the old lion, so go ahead and do what you gotta do to get it over with.”
Following an initial postponement due to an ulcer flare-up on Tyson’s part, the fight is now set for November 15.