Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul full fight 2024: what led to pre-fight showdown?

ARLINGTON, Texas:  Mike Tyson lost his composure and slapped Jake Paul during a tense face-off ahead of their highly anticipated fight on Friday night.

Media reports suggested that the confrontation was sparked after Paul stepped on Tyson’s toe, which may have triggered the legendary boxer’s reaction.

In the lead-up to the fight, Tyson appeared disinterested at Wednesday’s press conference, remaining largely silent. However, after the ceremonial weigh-in, tensions boiled over when Paul, during their stage face-off, approached Tyson on all fours. Tyson then responded with a right-handed slap, sending shockwaves through the crowd at AT&T Stadium.

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The dramatic moment added fuel to an already hyped bout. Paul, known for his showmanship, shrugged off the slap with a smirk but later vowed to make Tyson “pay for every disrespectful move” in interviews.

Tyson, returning to professional boxing for the first time in nearly two decades, has described the fight as deeply personal, beyond just a promotional stunt. Despite his calm demeanor, the former undisputed champion remains intensely focused. Paul, the younger and brash challenger, embraced his role as provocateur, aware of the global attention their clash is sure to attract, especially with Netflix broadcasting the event.

The slap, while seemingly spontaneous, may also serve as a calculated move, adding to the spectacle of what is shaping up to be one of boxing’s most-watched events.