THE WBC has urged Mike Tyson and Roy Jones Jr to wear headgear and 180z gloves for their exhibition bout amid fears for their safety.
The two boxing legends have signed for an eight-rounder on September 12, sanctioned by the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC).
Mike Tyson is boxing Roy Jones in an eight-round exhibition bout
Jones and Tyson will not wear headgear for the bout
And though they have been warned to avoid knockouts, both will box in 12oz gloves and no head guards.
It has led to concerns from the WBC – who have nothing to do with the bout – but want to see extra safety measures put in place for the fighters, who have a combined age of 105.
World Boxing News reports WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman as saying: “Both Tyson and Jones should wear headgear that boxers use in sparring.
“They should also wear 16, or even 18-ounce gloves.
“This event is a charity initiative that is highly appreciated and seeks to give sports fans a moment of entertainment.
“That is why the World Boxing Council fully supports the realisation of it. But I repeat, in no way can the safety of the contenders be neglected.
“I am certain that the California State Athletic Commission is taking every single provision to ensure their safety before and during the event.”
Despite CSAC Andy Foster pleading with the headliners to pull their punches, Jones knows the commission “can’t control” the feared puncher and will treat the bout like any of his other 75.
He told Yahoo Sports: “It’s a sparring session, but you have to remember, I’m the small guy here.
“Andy Foster can’t control Mike once Mike gets in the ring. I’ve got to defend myself like I’m in a real fight.
“If Mike goes out there and decides to start hammering, what am I supposed to do, look at Andy? Hell no. I’ve got to defend myself and get back in it.”
Watch Mike Tyson floor Corey Sanders and bully him around ring in brutal last exhibition fight in 2006 to pay off debts
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
