Mike Tyson says he ‘almost died’ before losing to Jake Paul

Mike Tyson said he was grateful for the opportunity to fight Jake Paul, whom he called a “talented boxer” in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday afternoon. Paul’s statement came after Paul defeated him in a lopsided unanimous decision at AT&T Stadium on Friday night. Tyson, 58, performed well in all eight rounds against the 27-year-old social media star.

“This is one of those situations where you lose but still win. I’m grateful for last night. I don’t regret getting in the ring for the last time,” Tyson began. “I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25 pounds in the hospital and had to fight my way back to health so I won. Let my kids see me face to face Standing and finishing 8 rounds with a very talented guy.

Tyson and Paul were originally scheduled to face off on July 20, but the legendary boxer ended up suffering an ulcer outbreak on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles in May. “I went to the bathroom and threw up blood,” Tyson revealed on USA Today’s “Countdown: Paul vs. Tyson.” I’m draining the tar.

After the game, Paul sang praises for Tyson. “He’s a legend,” ESPN captured him saying. “He’s the greatest player of all time, he’s the GOAT. I respect him. I’m inspired by him and we wouldn’t be here without him. He’s an icon. He’s the toughest man on the planet.” The game aired on Netflix, marking the streaming service’s first foray into live sports. It wasn’t all plain sailing for the streamer, as many viewers took to social media to mention buffering issues. Check out Mike Tyson’s full statement about his loss to Jake Paul below.