Mike Tyson opens up after defeat to Jake Paul

Almost a year after his controversial return to boxing, Mike Tyson reflects on what he truly learned from his bout with Jake Paul. The fight, held on November 15 at AT&T Stadium, not only made headlines but also gave the former heavyweight world champion a moment of personal revelation.

Tyson lost to Paul, 28, by unanimous decision after eight rounds, making it clear he was no longer in his prime. However, far from only lamenting the defeat, “Iron Mike” admits the fight gave him a valuable lesson about living in the moment and enjoying it to the fullest.

The most important lesson: enjoying the moment

In an interview with People, Tyson revealed that the most significant takeaway from the fight was the need to stay mentally focused and appreciate every moment:

“The moment’s going to be over. Just enjoy it. It doesn’t last forever,” he advised.

The former champion admitted that, apart from the $20 million paycheck, the only things he truly retained from the experience were perspective and a life lesson, as his memory of the fight itself is hazy. On Fox Sports’ Covino & Rich, Tyson recalled:

“I remember coming back from the first round and Jake was like… I don’t know what he was doing. And that’s the last thing I remember.”

The incident revealed that even a boxing veteran can lose focus under pressure, and that mental strength is just as crucial as physical power.

Preparing for Floyd Mayweather

With the loss to Paul behind him, Tyson is now focusing on his upcoming exhibition bout against Floyd Mayweather, scheduled for spring 2026 and organized by SCI Sports and Fight Sports.

“I’m just preparing and looking forward to it. It’s a wonderful thing that could happen,” he shared with the BBC.

Tyson also admitted that he didn’t believe the fight would happen until Mayweather signed the contract. The matchup promises to be historic, pitting Tyson’s strength and aggression against Mayweather’s precision and defense, in what many consider a clash of legends from different generations.

Reflection and growth after defeat

After the fight with Paul, Tyson admitted feeling disoriented and confused during the match, even joking about his bewilderment at his opponent’s movements. However, that experience became a guide for his future approach: to enjoy the moment, maintain focus, and prepare mentally for the challenges ahead.

His upcoming one-man show, “Return of the Mike”, premiering in November, promises to delve deeper into these reflections and showcase Tyson not just as a boxer, but as a man who continues learning even at 59, ready to face any challenge that modern boxing presents.