The anticipated fight, set for July 20 at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, was called off due to Tyson’s health issues, specifically a recent ulcer flare-up that prevented him from training. The event is being organized by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) in partnership with Netflix, who have announced that a new date will be disclosed on 7 June.

Despite the setback, Paul took to Instagram to share his thoughts: “Obviously devastating news, I’m heartbroken, speechless, gutted. We’ve been working so hard over here, everyone in this camp and I feel bad for everyone in this event, the whole undercard. This opportunity has been ripped from all of us, but I do value Mike’s health.”

He continued, showing support for Tyson’s well-being: “Love that guy, so much respect for him and I want Mike to be healthy. He still says he’s going to knock me out and I bought myself some time so Mike is still talking s*** over there. But Mike if you still want to do this, like you’ve said behind closed doors, I’m ready whenever you’re ready.”

Paul concluded with optimism about the future of the match: “This is too big an opportunity, this fight’s going to change the world. I turn all my Ls into Ws – a motto I live by – and the universe makes no mistakes so let’s see what’s in store, but sorry this didn’t work out,” reports the Mirror.

The rescheduling of the bout has thrown several other fights into disarray, including the highly anticipated light-welterweight championship rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, which is now expected to be postponed along with the rest of the event’s lineup.

Tyson explained his situation: “Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover. My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will be back to my full training schedule soon.”

MVP commented on the decision: “Both Mike and Jake are in agreement that it is only fair to ensure that both athletes have equal training time to prepare for this important match and are able to compete at the highest level. The health and wellbeing of athletes is our top priority.”

Paul, who last stepped into the ring in March, has won nine out of his ten bouts since switching to boxing. His sole defeat came at the hands of Tommy Fury, who took the win with a split decision in February of the previous year.