After months of anticipation, Mike Tyson and Jake Paul finally squared off in what was one of the most talked-about boxing matches of 2024. The bout, which captivated millions around the globe, ended with Jake Paul securing a unanimous victory over the 58-year-old boxing legend. Following the fight, Tyson hinted at potentially retiring for good, a decision he’s been contemplating since stepping away from professional boxing two decades ago. But for Joe Rogan, this fight never should’ve happened in the first place.
Joe Rogan’s Concerns for Mike Tyson’s Health
Joe Rogan, the UFC commentator and podcast host, has voiced his concerns about Tyson’s health and safety since the fight was first announced. On a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan didn’t hold back when expressing his worries about Tyson’s return to the ring at age 58.
Editorial Guidelines & Fact Checking: At The Viral Pink, we uphold stringent Editorial Guidelines to deliver accurate, reliable, and high-quality content. Our dedicated team of expert contributors rigorously fact-checks all information using credible sources before publication. We strive for transparency, accountability, and up-to-date content, ensuring our readers receive trustworthy information they can rely on.
“But the reality is, Mike is 58 years old, and I was worried,” Rogan said, adding, “I love that guy, and he was a hero of mine when I was a kid. So, to see him, you know, 58 years old, fighting…” Rogan’s sentiments were clear: Tyson’s age and recent medical issues made it a risky proposition, and Rogan was genuinely concerned about the outcome.
The fight was a topic of much debate online, and many fans echoed Rogan’s sentiments, questioning whether the fight was worth it. YouTube user @OzDrDjObstruido commented, “That fight was the biggest RORT in History. Betting agencies should be made to refund any bet placed on that fight and they both need to be thrown out of any boxing agency, and stripped of all titles. Betty White could have got in there and flattened the both of them, if that was really their best. What a Complete Joke.” This comment highlights the frustration many fans felt, believing Tyson wasn’t at his best, and that the fight was a letdown.
Jake Paul’s Rare Praise from Joe Rogan
Despite his worries about Tyson, Rogan made sure to offer rare praise for Jake Paul, who’s often the subject of online ridicule for fighting opponents significantly older or less experienced than him.
“I don’t have anything against Jake Paul,” Rogan admitted on JRE #2233. “I like Jake Paul. I think what he’s doing is genius. He’s making insane amounts of money, he’s having a great time, and he’s a legit boxer. He’s absolutely a legit boxer.”
Rogan’s praise comes amid widespread criticism of Paul for his choice of opponents, with many boxing purists questioning the legitimacy of his opponents’ skills. Yet, as Rogan noted, Paul’s business acumen and boxing capabilities are hard to ignore. Fans, too, seem divided on Paul’s boxing journey. YouTube user @moshfreak900 chimed in with, “Paul won but he’s still a loser!” while @hawaiisage added, “Mike could have knocked out Jake anytime. It was his decision. He’s the GOAT!”
Despite the mixed reactions, Rogan’s comment further solidifies the idea that Jake Paul is more than just a YouTuber stepping into the ring for clout—he’s a legitimate boxer.
The Tyson vs. Paul Fight: Was It Rigged?
The controversy surrounding the fight didn’t end with Rogan’s comments. Some fans have questioned the integrity of the match itself. YouTube user @galvanicmass voiced a popular theory when they wrote, “The fight was rigged. Mike would have smashed Jake… but yeah it was rigged.” This comment points to the skepticism that surrounded the bout, with fans speculating that the outcome was more orchestrated than organic.
Regardless of how fans feel about the legitimacy of the fight, the event itself was undeniably one of the biggest in recent combat sports history, with millions of eyes on the spectacle. Whether it was scripted or not, it had the boxing world buzzing for days.
Joe Rogan’s GOAT Debate: Mike Tyson vs. Jon Jones
In another episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan further delved into his thoughts on who is the greatest of all time (GOAT) in combat sports. While Tyson’s health may have been a concern, Rogan still stands by the idea that, in his prime, Tyson was unparalleled in the ring.
“I maintain that in the time where he (Mike Tyson) was champion, like the two or three years where he was at his best, he was the greatest fighter of all time,” Rogan stated. Tyson’s sheer dominance in his early career is what cements him as a GOAT contender in Rogan’s eyes. However, when discussing current combat sports legends, Jon Jones came up as another serious contender for the GOAT title.
With Jon Jones recently taking on Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 and making his own claim to the throne by sending Miocic into retirement, the GOAT debate rages on. But Tyson’s place in the pantheon of combat sports legends is secure, at least in Rogan’s mind.
The Aftermath: What’s Next for Tyson and Paul?
With the fight now in the rearview mirror, many are left wondering what the future holds for both Tyson and Paul. Tyson’s retirement from boxing seems likely, especially given his comments following the fight. However, whether he will continue to be involved in the sport in other ways—such as in commentary or training—is still up in the air.
As for Jake Paul, it’s clear that he is here to stay in boxing. His rise from YouTube personality to legitimate boxer is impressive, and even Joe Rogan, who is often critical of celebrity boxers, sees the potential in Paul’s career.
FAQ
1. Why was Joe Rogan concerned about Mike Tyson’s health during the fight?
Joe Rogan was concerned because Tyson was 58 years old and had recently suffered from health issues. He feared that the fight posed significant risks to Tyson’s well-being.
2. Did Joe Rogan praise Jake Paul after the fight?
Yes, Rogan praised Jake Paul for his boxing skills, calling him a “legit boxer” and acknowledging his business acumen and success in the sport.
3. Was the Tyson vs. Paul fight considered rigged by fans?
Some fans, like @galvanicmass, speculated that the fight was rigged, though there is no concrete evidence to support this theory.
4. Who did Joe Rogan choose as the GOAT of combat sports?
Joe Rogan considers Mike Tyson as the GOAT based on his dominance during his prime years. However, he also acknowledged Jon Jones as another contender for the title.