In the lead-up to one of the most anticipated and controversial boxing events in recent history, Evander Holyfield, the former world heavyweight champion, has weighed in on the fiery rivalry between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. This week, Tyson made headlines when he slapped Jake Paul during a ceremonial weigh-in, sending shockwaves through the boxing community and setting the stage for their showdown. Holyfield, who is no stranger to Tyson’s explosive power and presence in the ring, has some strong thoughts on the upcoming fight—and specifically on Paul’s chances against the legendary former champion.

The Slap Heard ‘Round the Boxing World

The tension between Tyson and Jake Paul has been building for months. Both men have exchanged barbs on social media, with Paul frequently taunting Tyson and claiming that he could outbox the former undisputed heavyweight champion. But it was during the recent weigh-in that things took a dramatic turn. Tyson, who has been training intensely for his return to the ring, slapped Jake Paul in a moment that seemed to reflect the growing animosity between the two.

Many fans and analysts were shocked by the slap, interpreting it as a demonstration of Tyson’s dominance and intimidation ahead of the fight. Holyfield, who knows Tyson better than anyone, sees it as a clear message to Paul.

Holyfield: “Jake Paul CAN’T Outbox Tyson”

In a recent interview, Holyfield, who faced Tyson twice in the 1990s (including the infamous “Ear Bite” fight), offered his unfiltered thoughts on the upcoming bout. The two have a long history together, and Holyfield has firsthand experience of Tyson’s power and ferocity in the ring. When asked about Jake Paul’s chances of beating Tyson, Holyfield didn’t hold back.

“Jake Paul can’t outbox Mike Tyson,” Holyfield said emphatically. “Jake might be a decent boxer for his level, but he’s nowhere near on the level of Tyson. Mike has fought and beaten some of the best fighters in history. His experience, his power, his ring IQ—Paul can’t compete with that.”

Holyfield is well aware of Tyson’s legendary status in the sport, having faced him at the height of Tyson’s career. While Paul has made a name for himself in the boxing world by knocking out several opponents with limited experience, Holyfield believes there is no comparison when it comes to facing someone with the pedigree of Tyson.

Tyson’s Experience vs. Paul’s Youth

While Jake Paul has a strong social media following and has made waves in the boxing world with a perfect record, Holyfield emphasized that experience is what truly matters at the highest level. Tyson, now in his 50s, may not be in his prime, but his decades of experience in the ring make him a formidable opponent for anyone—especially someone like Paul.

“Tyson has been in the ring with the best of the best. He has fought some of the greatest heavyweights in history,” Holyfield continued. “Paul might have power, but boxing is more than just strength. It’s about knowing what to do at every moment of the fight, reading your opponent, and controlling the pace. Tyson has all of that, and Jake doesn’t.”

Holyfield also noted that Tyson’s mental toughness is something that Paul won’t be able to match. “Mike Tyson is like a lion in the ring. Once he gets into that mindset, he’s a different beast. Jake Paul doesn’t know what he’s in for.”

The Slap as a Sign of Tyson’s Focus

Holyfield was quick to point out that Tyson’s slap at the weigh-in was not just a random act of aggression, but a display of his focus and intensity. “That slap was just a reminder,” said Holyfield. “Tyson is ready. He’s always been a guy who shows you who’s boss without saying much. That slap wasn’t a mistake—it was intentional. Tyson is letting Jake know that the talk is over. It’s time to fight.”

Holyfield also reflected on his own experiences with Tyson, explaining that he has always respected Tyson’s ability to turn up the intensity when it matters most. “When Mike Tyson gets into a fight, he doesn’t just show up for the paycheck. He shows up to dominate. Jake Paul won’t be able to handle that.”

Holyfield’s Prediction: Tyson by Knockout

When asked about how he thinks the fight will unfold, Holyfield didn’t hesitate to predict a clear outcome in Tyson’s favor. “Tyson is going to knock him out. That’s what I believe will happen,” Holyfield stated. “Jake Paul may have some moments, but Tyson’s experience and power will overwhelm him. It’s going to be a tough night for Jake.”

Holyfield also touched on the broader context of the fight, emphasizing the importance of Tyson’s legacy in the sport of boxing. “Mike Tyson is one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. He’s a man who changed the sport of boxing and left a lasting impact. This fight is bigger than just Jake Paul. It’s about Tyson showing the world that he’s still the baddest man on the planet.”

Jake Paul’s Challenge: Can He Beat Tyson?

While Holyfield is clear in his belief that Tyson will win, he also acknowledged that anything can happen in boxing. Jake Paul has proven himself to be a hard-hitting fighter with a growing following, and it’s clear that he’s hungry for a chance to prove the doubters wrong. However, as Holyfield emphasized, even if Paul possesses a strong knockout punch, it’s the intangible qualities—like ring intelligence, experience, and mental toughness—that Tyson possesses in spades.

“Jake Paul might think he can outbox Tyson, but there’s a reason why Mike Tyson has been one of the most feared men in boxing for decades,” Holyfield concluded. “Jake doesn’t have that kind of pedigree. Tyson is a different animal.”

The Countdown Begins

As the fight draws nearer, all eyes will be on Tyson and Paul as they face off in the ring. Holyfield’s words will undoubtedly fuel the debate, as fans and analysts alike eagerly await to see whether Jake Paul can defy the odds or if Mike Tyson will once again prove why he is regarded as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.

One thing is for certain—this fight will not be like any other. It’s a clash of two worlds, one of raw power and experience, the other of ambition and youthful confidence. But as Holyfield warns, when it comes to Tyson, there’s simply no substitute for the years of knowledge and skill that he brings to the ring.