Jake Paul has insisted he made the right decision by bulking up to face Mike Tyson.
The YouTube star will take on heavyweight legend Tyson in a high-profile showdown on July 20, despite being 31-years apart and having vast differences to their physical attributes.
Paul has bulked up to around 230lbs already in preparation to face ‘Iron Mike’, which has seen him look completely different given he has traditionally competed around the cruiserweight limit.
Many fans have questioned whether the switch will be to Paul’s detriment, but the ‘Problem Child’ has suggested it will help him prevent Tyson from bullying him.
“Everything has been good but it’s been a little transition moving to heavyweight,” he told TMZ Sports.
“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. 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.”
Paul showed off a significantly larger frame when posing for photos after his recent media events with Tyson.
Of course, the ‘Problem Child’ will still be likely to possess more stamina and speed than his rival regardless, given Tyson will be 58 when he steps in the ring.
Tyson hasn’t fought competitively since losing to Kevin McBride and retiring in 2005, and has naturally faced medical concerns over the sanctioned professional bout.
The former undisputed heavyweight champion still possesses an element of his natural dynamic power, and has shown it off in ferocious training footage.
Paul has insisted he intends to try and match the legend’s power, and will refuse to ‘take it easy’ on his rival despite his age.
He said: “Absolutely not [Paul will take it easy] because if he has the same opportunity you know damn well he is going to finish me in embarrassing fashion.
“So, I have to reciprocate that same energy. But Mike Tyson is a killer. He’s ruthless.
“He’s the most vicious champion ever. So, I have to channel that Mike Tyson energy to finish him. And the legend must fall.
