Mike Tyson breaks silence after defeat to Jake Paul admitting he ‘almost died’ before fight

Mike Tyson has broken his silence following his controversial defeat to Jake Paul by admitting that he “almost died” ahead of the fight. The legendary boxer, 58, took to the ring in Arlington on Friday evening but it was not a successful outing as he was dominated by his younger opponent. Tyson was bettered on points despite not falling to a knockout defeat, and he’s now spoken out on the loss to Paul, admitting that his health took a scary nosedive during his preparations for the bout.

The legendary fighter wrote on Twitter/X: “This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in the ring one last time. “I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in the hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won. To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for. Thank you.”

As reported by the Mirror, Tyson was originally set to take on Paul in July but the fight was postponed due to the former going through a health scare on a flight. Opening up on the incident ahead of the clash, Tyson said to New York Magazine: “I was in the bathroom throwing up blood. “I asked the doctor, ‘Am I going to die?’ He said, ‘We have options.’ Options? I couldn’t believe it. I had, like, eight blood transfusions. The doctor said I lost half my blood. I almost died. “I lost 25 pounds in 11 days. Couldn’t eat. Only liquids. Every time I went to the bathroom, it smelled like tar. Didn’t even smell like s*** anymore. It was disgusting. “It threw me off [when I continued training]. All my coordination, stamina, everything was hectic getting back. I was peaked already. I could have fought him that day. Now I got to start from scratch. I just don’t give up. I’m an a****** sometimes. I’m a d***. If I haven’t outlived my enemies, I’ve turned them into my friends.”

Mike Tyson’s honesty and vulnerability in sharing his near-death experience before the fight with Jake Paul provides a unique insight into the challenges he faced leading up to the match. It highlights the immense physical and mental strength required of athletes at the highest level, even legends like Tyson, to overcome adversity and compete in the ring.

In a world where athletes are often portrayed as invincible, Tyson’s transparency about his health struggles serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination needed to pursue one’s passion despite facing life-threatening obstacles. His message of gratitude for being able to step into the ring one last time resonates with fans who admire his never-give-up attitude and fighting spirit.

Tyson’s story also sheds light on the importance of prioritising health and well-being, even in the pursuit of one’s goals. By sharing his experience, he not only inspires others to persevere in the face of adversity but also encourages individuals to value their physical and mental health above all else. Tyson’s journey from a health scare to a high-profile boxing match serves as a powerful example of courage, perseverance, and the indomitable human spirit.