Jake Paul contradicts Mike Tyson over rules for boxing fight

Mike Tyson and Jake Paul are set to fight on Saturday July 20

Jake Paul has revealed he wants his fight with Mike Tyson to be a professional bout.

Paul and Tyson will clash in Texas this summer despite the near 30-year age gap. Tyson will be 58 when he steps through the ropes and concerns have been raised over whether the fight should be sanctioned by the Texan authorities.

Tyson himself admitted the fight would be an exhibition – but Paul has contradicted the heavyweight legend and insists they hope the fight will be added to their professional records. “Mike and I want this to be a pro fight, full face shots. We’re submitting that request to the commission. It’s an all-out war,” he told FOX News. “There’s been all thee fake videos about not being able to hit each other, and we’ll be wearing big gloves but it’s all fake news.”

Paul has won nine of his 10 professional fights with his sole defeat coming against Tommy Fury last year. He has knocked out his last two opponents in the first round but believes Tyson will provide a stern test despite his age.

“I think he’s underestimating me, I truly, truly think that,” he added. “It’s a heavyweight fight, he’s the bigger man but I’m the faster man. He’s the much stronger man but I’m fresh. He’s experienced. I’m smart but in the ring he may be smarter. It’s are really interesting match-up and people see the training videos and think he’s a beat.

“But i know I have what it takes to beat him. It’s an honour to be in the ring with him but I’m confident I’ll have my hand raised. It’s going to be tough, he’s going to be getting inside but I believe i have the faster feet and faster hands and I’m going to be finding the angles.”

Paul also called on presidential candidate Donald Trump to be ringside for the fight in Texas. “Trump, if you’re watching this, this is an invite,” he said. “I know you used to promote Tyson, so I’d love to have you at the fight. Vivek came to my other fight. And, of course, the silver fox, Barron Trump. So, Donny, pull up, we’ve got tickets for you.”