Mike Tyson, one of boxing’s most iconic figures, is set to make a shocking return to the ring at the age of 58, facing off against the much younger YouTube sensation-turned-professional boxer, Jake Paul, on November 15. This highly anticipated bout marks Tyson’s first sanctioned professional fight since his retirement in 2005, but the matchup has sparked widespread concern and controversy within the boxing community.

Tyson, who has struggled with health issues in recent years, including sciatica and a recent ulcer flare-up, will be stepping back into the ring against a fighter who is not only 32 years his junior but also in his physical prime. British cruiserweight prospect Aloys Junior, who has been likened to Tyson due to his own powerful punches and impressive knockout record, has expressed serious doubts about Tyson’s chances in this fight.

“I think he may get stopped, to be honest with you,” Junior told talkSPORT.com. “He is just too old, and your body has declined too much at that age. It is not good for his boxing legacy, especially if he gets stopped like that by Jake Paul. I wouldn’t want to see that at all, but who knows? He was one of my idols. If the fight ever happens, we don’t know, but I just wouldn’t like to see that.”

Tyson, known for his ferocious power and dominant reign as the undisputed heavyweight champion in his prime, has continued to showcase his formidable punching ability in recent training footage. However, many believe that the age difference between Tyson and Paul, combined with Paul’s increasing power as he bulks up to around 230 pounds, could be too much for the boxing legend to overcome.

Despite these concerns, Roy Jones Jr., who fought Tyson in an exhibition match in 2020, remains confident in Tyson’s abilities. “Mike Tyson is still the strongest puncher that I’ve ever been in the ring with. Ever,” Jones Jr. stated. “At 55 at the time, now I think 57, might be 58, he’s still the strongest puncher. First time he hit me in my chin, I felt like a mule had kicked me in my chest.”

Jones Jr. went on to explain the challenge that Paul will face, emphasizing Tyson’s ability to close the gap quickly and land devastating punches. “Jake’s not going to fight close, and he can’t stay away from him because Mike will close the gap too quick. He’s hoping he’ll be muscly enough to push him backward and keep him off him, but he won’t be able to stay away from him.”

As the fight date approaches, the debate continues over whether this bout is a thrilling return for a boxing legend or a dangerous risk for a fighter well past his prime. Fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if Tyson can defy the odds and add one more chapter to his storied career or if the younger, stronger Paul will hand him a humbling defeat.