The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations has sanctioned the boxing match between YouTuber-turned-prizefighter Jake Paul and former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. The fight will be considered a professional bout and will have an impact on the fighters' professional boxing records. 'He's Too Old, He's Senile' WWE United States Champion Logan Paul Claims He Refused to Fight Mike Tyson (Watch Video).

Mike Tyson Confirms the ‘Pro Fight’

Tyson, who is 57 years old, has not won a professional boxing match since 2003. He fought professionally twice after his 50th win, but he was defeated by Danny Williams in 2004 and Kevin McBride in 2005. When Tyson enters the ring on July 20, he will be 58 years old, while Paul, his opponent, will be 27 years old. This age gap of 31 years will be the largest in the history of professional boxing, surpassing the 24-year gap between Archie Moore and Mike DiBiase in 1963. Moore defeated DiBiase by third-round TKO, but he was quite active, fighting four times as a 48-year-old before retiring at 49. ‘Still Wanna F*** With Me?’ Mike Tyson Sends Message to Jake Paul As He Undergoes Intense Training Ahead of Their Fight (Watch Video)

Jake Paul Gives ‘Nod’ for the Pro Fight

Although Paul vs. Tyson is a sanctioned fight, it won't follow standard rules. The fight will be contested over eight two-minute rounds instead of the standard three-minute rounds for men's boxing matches. Additionally, the gloves used by the fighters will weigh 14 ounces, which is larger than normal. Head gears are also not allowed in the match. But knockouts are still in the rules for the bout allowing both stars to go all-out in the match.

Tyson last fought professionally in 2005, but he did have an exhibition bout with Roy Jones Jr. in 2020. The fight was "scored" by three guest judges, who ruled it a split draw, although the legitimacy of those scorecards can be questioned.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 29, 2024 10:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).