Jake Paul has confessed to feeling slower after bulking up for his highly anticipated clash with boxing legend Mike Tyson, set to take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on July 20.

The former YouTuber, now 27, has been training rigorously for the fight, acknowledging the need to gain weight to compete with one of boxing’s all-time greats. During a recent press conference in New York, Paul appeared noticeably heavier and has since discussed the impact of his new physique with TMZ Sports.

“There is definitely slightly more power, but I think the biggest thing is the inside fighting and clinches and not getting pushed around by some of these heavyweights,” Paul stated. “When I’m jogging, I’m so much slower. I feel like a rhino or something; it’s definitely a lot harder to jog. Everything has been good, but it’s been a little transition moving to heavyweight.”

Paul emphasized the importance of his weight gain to avoid being overpowered by Tyson in the ring. “I definitely needed to put on weight so that I’m able to compete with Mike Tyson and so that he’s not able to throw me around in the ring. We’ve been sparring heavyweights and eating more food.”

Despite Tyson’s recent remark calling Paul “fat,” the social media star remains confident. “Mike Tyson has called me fat, but I believe fat will turn into muscle, and come fight night, I believe I will be able to move and dance around the ring like a true heavyweight.”

Tyson, now 58, remains a formidable figure in boxing history, despite having his last fight four years ago, a draw with Roy Jones Jr. Paul respects Tyson’s legendary status, stating, “They say he’s the baddest man on the planet, so let’s find out. Apparently, he’s the final boss… I love the biggest challenges in the world. That’s what’s made my whole entire career is taking big risks and I want the toughest guy out there.”

Paul’s upcoming fight with Tyson promises to be a major event, with both fighters eager to prove themselves in the ring on July 20.