ROY JONES JR has become the latest to offer himself to Jake Paul as a replacement for Mike Tyson.
YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul was due to face heavyweight boxing icon Tyson on July 20 in Texas.
But the Baddest Man on The Planet suffered an ulcer flare up just weeks before the fight while boarding a plane.
As a result, doctors warned Tyson against training which saw the controversial clash KO’d for the time being.
Paul explored finding a new opponent but Netflix are desperate for their first live boxing event to involve Iron Mike.
So SunSport understands the fight looks to be rescheduled for the final quarter of the year, anywhere from October to December.
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But still, it did not stop the names from queuing up to act as a replacement for Tyson, including his last opponent.
Jones, 55, drew with Tyson over eight exhibition rounds in 2020.
But the American icon fought as recently as April 2023 when he lost on points to ex-UFC champion Anthony Pettis, 37.
And Jones is now gonna stay ready in case he is needed in the ring one more time amid Tyson’s health scare.
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He told Betway: “I’m kind of thinking about that. I might try and get into shape incase that happens. Maybe I get myself in shape for that.
“I never thought about doing it before but with the situation of the fight.
“I think that’s a great idea and I’ll be ready and in shape because if the fight doesn’t happen then the ideal guy to substitute in place of Mike Tyson to fight Jake Paul is something I have been thinking about. If the fight is out there then yes.”
Both Tyson, 57, and Paul, 27, have remained determined to keep their fight for the ages alive.
Tyson said: “I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time.
“Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover.
“My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will be back to my full training schedule soon.
“Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good.
“I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”
Paul added: “I fully support postponing the event so Mike Tyson has no excuses come fight night.
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“My fans know I don’t want to face Iron Mike at anything but his best, but let there be no mistake – when he steps into the ring with me, I will be ready to claim my W with a sensational finish.
“Paul vs Tyson will be one for the ages, and I promise to bring my best for this once-in-a-lifetime matchup.”
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
