Jake Paul’s controversial victory over Mike Tyson earlier this month has received a largely mixed response from the world of combat sports.
The 27-year-old produced a pedestrian performance to outpoint his 58-year-old opponent through eight two-minute rounds, headlining Netflix’s first ever live boxing event at the AT&T Stadium, Texas.
But while both combatants were paid handsomely for their efforts, several concerns over the health of Mike Tyson were expressed before and after the contest.
UFC commentator and esteemed podcaster Joe Rogan, for instance, breathed a sigh of relief when Tyson, a shadow of his former self, exited the ring unscathed.
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Joe Rogan believes that Jake Paul is a ‘legit boxer’
Following his unanimous decision victory over ‘Iron Mike,’ Jake Paul has put himself in the shop window for another lucrative payday.
The social media sensation reportedly took home a staggering $40 million, while Tyson, despite seemingly contributing an equal amount to the promotion, ultimately received $20 million for his troubles.
And so, with Paul looking to capitalize on the intrigue surrounding his last outing, it appears that his polarizing boxing career is only just beginning.
Sure enough, several active and retired fighters have already expressed a desire to take on the American, who has extended his professional record to 11-1.
But while he has been presented with a plethora of options, Paul is now under a degree of pressure to prove himself against a professional boxer.
Regardless of who his next opponent is, though, Rogan remains impressed with how ‘El Gallo’ has built his profile in the sport.
“I don’t have anything against Jake Paul,” Rogan said on his podcast. “I like Jake Paul. I think what he’s doing is genius. I think what he’s doing is, like – I mean, he’s making insane amounts of money, he’s having a great time, he’s a legit boxer.
“He’s absolutely a legit boxer. If you do [hate him], you’re an idiot. But the reality is, Mike is 58 years old, and I was worried. I love that guy, and he was a hero of mine when I was a kid.”
Amanda Serrano becomes the most-followed female boxer on social media
Not only has Paul elevated his own profile, but he has also had a remarkable impact on the career of Amanda Serrano.
On the undercard of Paul vs. Tyson, Serrano locked horns with Katie Taylor in a compelling rematch, only to lose a highly contentious unanimous decision.
But still, the women’s boxing icon, whose illustrious career is navigated by Most Valuable Promotions, has become one of the world’s most recognizable fighters over the past few months.
And now, the 36-year-old boasts nearly 200 thousand followers on X, with Paul branding her as the most-followed female boxer on social media of all time.