Mike Tyson lost his fight against influencer Jake Paul, but the 58-year-old earned widespread admiration for his resilience through the eight-round match.
However, his former trainer, Jeff Fenech, has expressed regret after urging people to bet on the legendary boxer to win the match against Paul.
Mike Tyson called the experience a victory, sharing gratitude for stepping into the ring again despite his health challenges.
Jeff Fenech Admits Regret Over Mike Tyson’s Loss To Jake Paul
In an interview with Australia Nine’s “Today,” Jeff Fenech, former trainer to Tyson, admitted he was overwhelmed with calls after urging “so many” people to bet on the boxer in his fight against Jake Paul last Friday.
Following the highly anticipated heavyweight clash, held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which ended with Paul, 27, securing a unanimous decision victory over the 58-year-old Tyson after eight rounds, Fenech expressed his regret, stating, “Yeah, I was [surprised].”
“I had so many people ring me, and so many people lost money because of me. I’m pretty embarrassed,” he added, per the New York Post.
Despite Tyson’s defeat, Fenech insisted the fight wasn’t just about the result.
“It may have been a terrible fight, but what he represented and what he was trying to do isn’t just to show people he can fight, he’s trying to show people that at 58 you can work hard,” he explained. “He’s changed his whole life around and I think that’s what it’s about. The rest of the stuff far outweighs the fight.”
Jeff Fenech Warns Mike Tyson Against Returning To The Ring
Fenech, who previously worked with Tyson in the past, including his final fight in 2005 against Kevin McBride, after which Tyson retired with a record of 50 wins and six losses, believed that Iron Mike had the potential to secure one of the fastest wins of his career if he approached it correctly.
However, in the aftermath of Tyson’s loss to Paul, Fenech revealed he has spoken with the former heavyweight champion several times, discouraging Tyson from stepping into the ring again.
“My advice would be that you don’t have to do that again,” Fenech stated. “He’s talking about being sick … but at 58 and working your body the way he did, it’s very difficult to stay healthy. Sometimes, you overdo it and burn your engine out.”
Still, Fenech remains impressed by Tyson’s transformation. He said, “For me, I’m so proud of how Mike has changed his life around and over 100 million people watched at home. Although all of us fight people can say what a terrible fight that was, most people think what a great job Mike Tyson did.”
The Legendary Boxer’s Current Trainer Also Expressed Surprise At His Loss
Rafael Cordeiro, Tyson’s trainer, recently spoke about Saturday’s fight at AT&T Stadium, expressing gratitude that the boxing icon can now focus on spending quality time with his family after months of intense preparation.
“We worked for seven months for this moment. I really believed we had this victory before the fight. He never asked to give up,” Cordeiro shared, per the Daily Mail.
Despite the loss, Cordeiro emphasized Tyson’s enduring legacy: “He (Tyson) is the people’s champion. He has inspired many people outside the ring. Most importantly, Mike comes home to his loved ones.”
Mike Tyson Reveals Near-Death Experience After Losing His Fight With Jake Paul
In the lead-up to his boxing match with Paul, Tyson faced significant health challenges, including a severe ulcer flare-up that required the fight, originally slated for July 20, to be postponed.
Following the match, the boxing icon took to X to share a shocking revelation.
“This is one of those situations when you lost but still won,” he began. “I’m grateful for last night. No regrets about getting in the ring one last time. I almost died in June.”
Tyson added: “Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in 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.”
Fans Hail The Boxing Legend For Being An Inspiration After His Jake Paul Fight
In response to Tyson’s heartfelt post, Paul commented: “Love you, Mike. It was an honor. You’re an inspiration to us all.”
Fans also poured in with messages of admiration and respect for the boxing legend. “You’ll always be the greatest boxer of all time to me,” one fan wrote. “I watched you all my life. Nobody even comes close. Thank you for being you. I wish I could have met you in person.”
Another added: “You’re the GOAT Tyson. Hope you see me in other endeavors outside boxing again. Mike Tyson Mysteries comes to mind.”
