Mike Tyson’s former trainer says Jake Paul didn’t stand a chance when he stepped into the ring with the boxing icon.
“The Problem Child” faces Tyson in a highly controversial fight on July 20 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
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Concerns have been raised over Tyson’s health as he prepares to box a man 31 years his junior.
“Iron Mike” will be 58 years old by the time he steps between the ropes while Paul is in his athletic prime at 27 years old.
Yet despite his father’s time against him, Jeff Fenech, who trained Tyson in his last three fights in the paid ranks, is convinced his veteran fighter’s power will be too much for Paul.
“I have no doubt [Tyson wins] if Mike takes it easy and doesn’t try to punch at the same time,” Fenech told Wide World of Sports.
“If he makes Jake Paul miss, Mike will knock him out in a few rounds. One hundred percent.
“I spoke to Mike and told him how I felt. I hope he listens to me.
“Anyway, we said the same thing. If he does what he says, I have no doubt he will knock him out. He won’t have any problems.”
It was initially thought that Paul vs. Tyson would be staged as an exhibition fight.
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However, last month it was confirmed that the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation was allowing it as a professional competition under amended rules.
The cross-match will take place over eight two-minute rounds, instead of the three minutes usually contested by professionals.
Meanwhile, both fighters will wear 14-ounce gloves, instead of ten-ounce mitts.
As is common in professional boxing, neither man will wear headgear while knockouts are permitted and the result will appear on both of their professional records.
Paul will move up to heavyweight for the first time in his career to face Tyson after previously campaigning at cruiserweight.
The YouTube star weighed up to 230 pounds before fight night and insists he is very comfortable at that weight.
“I’m a born heavyweight. This is what I was born to do: to move up in this weight class,” he said at the launch press conference earlier this month.
“I’m going to show Mike who has more power because he underestimates me. I think everyone underestimates me and I think I hit harder.
“I know it’s going to be hard. I know I’m going to have to fight through adversity. I know I could even go on the canvas.
“I’m scared, don’t get me wrong, but it’s not fear that’s stopping me. It’s about going for it, even if I’m scared. That’s true bravery.”
