In an unprecedented clash of eras, Jake Paul emerged victorious over the legendary Mike Tyson on Friday night at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The event, streamed live on Netflix, saw the 27-year-old social media star-turned-boxer outclass the 58-year-old Hall of Famer, earning a unanimous decision after eight rounds.

Paul’s Dominance Over “Iron Mike”

Paul’s youth and activity proved too much for Tyson, who returned to professional boxing for the first time since 2005. Despite his legendary knockout power and ring IQ, Tyson struggled with movement and endurance throughout the bout. Paul outlanded Tyson significantly, landing 78 of 278 punches (28%) compared to Tyson’s 18 of 97 (18%).

The judges scored the fight decisively for Paul: 80-72, 79-73, and 79-73. While Paul showed restraint in the later rounds, his superior conditioning and accuracy carried him to victory.

A Difficult Return for Tyson

Tyson, who had been dealing with health issues earlier in the year, including an ulcer flare-up, entered the ring with visible limitations. Wearing a leg brace and struggling to move fluidly, the former heavyweight champion couldn’t keep up with his younger opponent. By the fight’s end, Tyson hinted at a possible return to the ring, even suggesting Jake’s brother, Logan Paul, as a future opponent.

Katie Taylor Defends Titles in Co-Main Event

The co-main event featured a spectacular rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano for Taylor’s IBF, WBA, WBC, and WBO super-lightweight titles. Taylor edged Serrano via unanimous decision (95-94 across the board) in what many are calling a Fight of the Year contender. This marks Taylor’s second victory over Serrano, following their 2022 classic at Madison Square Garden.

Fight Card Results

• Heavyweight: Jake Paul def. Mike Tyson via unanimous decision (80-72, 79-73, 79-73)
• Super Lightweight: Katie Taylor def. Amanda Serrano via unanimous decision (95-94, 95-94, 95-94)
• WBC Welterweight Title: Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos ends in a split draw (114-112 Ramos, 116-110 Barrios, 113-113)
• Super Middleweight: Neeraj Goyat def. Whindersson Nunes via unanimous decision (59-55, 60-54, 60-54)

Preliminary Card Highlights:

• Super Middleweight: Shadasia Green def. Melinda Watpool via split decision
• Lightweight: Lucas Bahdi def. Armando Casamonica via majority decision
• Featherweight: Bruce Carrington Jr. def. Dana Coolwell via unanimous decision

Netflix’s Combat Sports Debut Marred by Technical Issues

While the fights delivered excitement, Netflix faced criticism for streaming issues. Buffering problems plagued many viewers, detracting from the overall experience. Despite the setbacks, the platform’s first live boxing event attracted a massive audience, cementing its entry into the world of combat sports.

What’s Next?

Jake Paul’s victory solidifies his position as a legitimate boxer, while Tyson’s performance raises questions about the role of aging legends in today’s combat sports landscape. Fans now eagerly await announcements about Paul’s next opponent and whether Tyson will step into the ring again.