Mike Tyson and Jake Paul will now fight in a full-blown professional bout. The development comes after months-long speculation that the fight will take its course in an exhibition rule-set. However, now with the new rules made apparent, even Oscar De La Hoya has joined the scores of folks who remain concerned for the safety of Iron Mike.

Mike Tyson will be almost 58 by the time his fight night against Jake Paul arrives. His advanced age coupled with the fact that he’s going against an opponent who’s 27, almost 30 years younger to him has alarmed his well-wishers. While they strongly hope that he wins his first pro fight since 2005, they remain concerned if the fighter will come out of the ring without any serious injuries considering his age. In such hopes, De La Hoya sends a prayer for Tyson.

Is Mike Tyson risking his legacy by fighting Paul?

‘Iron Mike’ is undoubtedly one of the best fighters of all time. His record when he hung his gloves stood at 50-6. Such a record instills confidence among his supporters that he might as well defeat ‘The Problem Child.’ However, when reality sets in, his age, issues with sciatica, and inactivity in the ring present another possibility. He might lose. If that happens, will his legacy be tarnished?

In conversation with TMZ, ‘Golden Boy’, an ardent fan of Tyson was asked his take on the upcoming Arlington matchup. His awe for the fighter was reflected in his answer along with his concern. He remarked, “I’m going to pray for Mike Tyson, ’cause I love Mike Tyson. You know, I think, Jake Paul, he’s a real fighter, he really is. It’s a dangerous fight. Mike Tyson, be careful.”

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De La Hoya further reflected on what effects a potential loss could have on his legacy. He noted, “Mike Tyson is cemented. Legacy forever. Mike Tyson will be the man forever.”

The new rules officially communicated by Most Valuable Promotions’s chief, Nakisa Bidarian, not only make it clear that the fight will be professional but also highlight that it will be a matchup of 8 rounds of 2 minutes each. No headgear will be allowed, knockout will be allowed, and 16 oz gloves will be employed. Timothy Bradley, former world champion, thinks these rules will probably work in Mike Tyson’s favor.

How will new rules help ‘The Baddest’?

Two-division champion, Timothy Bradley, believes that two-minute rounds, as opposed to the standard three-minute rounds, would be advantageous for Tyson. To a media house, he said, “Mike Tyson, knock his ass out, baby! It can happen. Two minutes is going to favor Mike Tyson… banging him to the body, hitting him with power shots.”

“He has the potential to knock this man out. The power is the last thing to leave you. Two minutes, that’s all it takes to knock Disney boy the hell out!” Bradley stated confidently.

In the lead-up to the matchup, Tyson has shown his tenacity in his workout videos. The videos have outlined his strength and power. Now that the fight has been sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, he will also be forced to give up marijuana, something that he promotes. The body notes marijuana in its banned substances list. Thus, there is a very real chance, the old Mike Tyson might make his way back.

Do you think Mike Tyson can sustain in the ring in his comeback? Let us know in the comments section below.