After Mike Tyson’s sensational ring return was confirmed for September 12, the former undisputed world heavyweight champion has warned fellow legend Roy Jones Jr. that he will not be taking their eight-round exhibition bout lightly.
After hinting on social media for several months that he would end his 15-year ring exodus, Mike Tyson (50-6, 44 KOs & 2 NCs) officially announced that he and Roy Jones Jr. (66-9, 47 KOs) would meet in Carson, California, in an event dubbed ‘Frontline Battle’.
Speaking following the internet-breaking news of his September 12 bout, Tyson said that four-weight king Jones will have to find a way to deal with his relentless approach – regardless of the ‘exhibition’ nature of the contest.
“We’re both accomplished fighters. We know how to take care of ourselves – we’ll be alright. Trust me,” Tyson told ESPN’s ‘First Take’ with Max Kellerman, “I’m looking to be 100% of Mike Tyson in the ring. I’m a neophyte in taking it easy. I don’t know how to do it that way. I am one speed, forward. I don’t know, Roy is just going to have to deal with that.
“The fact is, we live a different lifestyle, being the greatest. I never took that many punches. I [retired]. I lived my life. I’ve been through some experiences and now I’m back. I feel that I took care of my body and state of mind better than most fighters that retired before me, and came back. It’s going to be amazing. I’m looking forward to it.
“It’s just because I can do it, and I believe other people believe they can do it, too. Just because I’m 54, it doesn’t mean I have to start a new career and our life is totally over. Not when you feel as beautiful as I do. I’m sure other people feel the same way.”