Hulk Hogan has completely revised his stance on the most contentious fight of 2024.
The WWE icon was initially thrilled to witness Jake Paul go head-to-head with Mike Tyson at Texas’ AT&T Stadium on November 15. However, his enthusiasm has since waned.
Hogan recently observed Paul during a sparring session in preparation for what could be his biggest fight yet.
‘The Problem Child’ is set to have a significant age advantage, being 31 years younger than Tyson as they step into the ring.
He is heavily favored to prevail against the 58-year-old former undisputed heavyweight champion, who hasn’t competed in a legitimate match since being defeated by Kevin McBride back in 2005.
“Your brother is too strong,” Hogan mentioned on Logan Paul’s podcast.
“Last night, when I saw him set up the guy with his left and follow through with the overhand right, I thought, ‘Oh my God!’ It was genuinely frightening.
“I adore Mike, and I just don’t want him to get hurt, dear God.”
This genuine concern for Tyson marks a shift from Hogan’s initial excitement for the matchup.
Back in June, the 71-year-old referred to Paul vs Tyson as the ‘Fight of the Century’ and even suggested that his longtime friend could potentially pull off an upset against the much younger fighter.
Hogan’s enthusiasm remained even after the fight was postponed due to a concerning medical issue Tyson encountered mid-flight that prevented him from competing on the originally scheduled date of July 20.
“When he’s focused, he’s a force to be reckoned with,” he expressed in June.
“I’ve recognized that fierce look in his eyes. It’s reminiscent of a dog that you don’t quite trust—you know it might bite. That’s the expression he’s got now.
“I recall that look from 25 years ago, and it’s genuinely unsettling.”
“I was excited about the fight, and I’m relieved it’s been rescheduled because I want to see both men at their best.”
“I truly believe this will be the Fight of the Century, brothers. It’s going to be an epic showdown.”
Hogan’s worries for Tyson’s safety showcase a larger trend of concern from many regarding the fighter’s return to the ring.
Despite this, Paul asserts that his next challenger is still more than capable of competing at a high level and insists that doubting Tyson is disrespectful to one of boxing’s greatest legends.
“First and foremost, I think it’s insulting to Mike,” Paul responded when talkSPORT MMA asked for his thoughts on critics of the matchup.
“I challenge them to step into the ring with him. If Mike wants to fight, then let’s make it happen. If he’s ready for a pro fight, then I’m on board.
“Fighting Mike Tyson is legendary. It’s a remarkable opportunity to share the ring with him, and if he wants it to be a professional bout, then I’m all for it.”
“When you observe his training videos or watch him hit the pads, you can see he has a 30-pound weight advantage and incredible strength.
“People can say whatever they want, but they’ll still tune in to watch.”
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