Iron Mike Tyson’s Replacement Options for Jake Paul Fight

Introduction

The highly anticipated bout between boxing legend Mike Tyson and social media sensation Jake Paul, scheduled for July 20th at AT&T Stadium in Texas, faces a potential cancellation if Tyson fails a pre-fight test. In the event of Tyson’s withdrawal, four potential opponents could step into the ring to face Paul, each with their unique advantages and star power.

1. Roy Jones Jr.

Roy Jones Jr., a five-weight world champion and International Boxing Hall of Famer, has a storied legacy in the sport. While not as much of a box-office draw as Tyson, Jones Jr. boasts a substantial fanbase and a legendary fighting career. Having already welcomed Tyson back to the ring in 2018, Jones Jr. would be a suitable replacement for ‘Iron’ Mike.

2. Carl Froch

Carl Froch, the former boxing world champion nicknamed “The Cobra,” has been a vocal critic of the Paul vs. Tyson matchup. He possesses a respectable career record, holding multiple world titles and retiring with an impressive winning streak. Despite his retirement in 2014, Froch has maintained his physical fitness and could be a compelling opponent for Paul.

3. Tommy Fury

Tommy Fury, the younger brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, is the only fighter to defeat Jake Paul in professional boxing. A rematch between Paul and Fury would be a highly anticipated clash, considering their previous rivalry and the unfinished business between them. Fury’s victory over Paul last year would also add to the intrigue and excitement surrounding a second bout.

4. KSI

KSI, a popular YouTuber and boxer like Paul, would be the highest-profile replacement for Tyson. Having experienced success in the ring, KSI challenged Tommy Fury in 2023 but suffered a defeat. Despite his setback, KSI remains a significant draw in the social media boxing scene and could generate tremendous hype if he faces Paul.

Conclusion

Should Tyson fail the pre-fight test and withdraw from the Paul bout, any of these four opponents would present a formidable challenge and generate significant interest. While Roy Jones Jr. boasts legendary status and Carl Froch offers a compelling storyline, Tommy Fury and KSI possess strong fan bases and unfinished business with Paul. The choice of replacement will ultimately depend on various factors, including the availability, marketability, and boxing styles of these potential opponents.