Mike Tyson reveals he 'almost died' and had 8 blood transfusions months before losing to Jake Paul
ARLINGTON, TEXAS: Boxing legend Mike Tyson disclosed that he faced a serious health crisis a few months prior to his fight with Jake Paul, confessing that he "almost died" earlier in the year.
The former heavyweight champion, aged 58, revealed the alarming details of his medical crisis, which involved receiving eight blood transfusions, in a post on X (previously known as Twitter) after his loss to Paul on November 15.
Mike Tyson reflects on life-threatening health battle before Jake Paul fight
In an emotional message, Mike Tyson described the harrowing effects of a life-threatening ulcer that resulted in the loss of half his blood and 25lbs during his hospital stay.
This is one of those situations when you lost but still won. I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time.
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) November 16, 2024
I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.
To…
“This is one of those situations when you lost but still won,” Tyson, 58, penned his initial X post following Paul's victory over the renowned boxer by unanimous decision.
He went on to say, “I’m grateful for last night. No regrets to get in ring one last time. I almost died in June. Had 8 blood transfusions. Lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.”
“To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish 8 rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for,” the 58-year-old added.
Saturday, November 16, signified Tyson's first sanctioned fight since 2005. He expressed his gratitude with a "thank you" and a praying hands emoji at the end of his post. Tyson entered the match with a career record of 50 wins and 6 losses, New York Post reports.
The health scare cast a shadow over the bout, with Tyson seemingly lagging behind Paul throughout most of the match—particularly from the third round onwards—as the 27-year-old YouTuber consistently landed punches, while Tyson countered with significantly less frequency.
Mike Tyson reveals ulcer flare-up led to medical emergency
Mike Tyson experienced an ulcer flare-up and underwent a medical emergency on a flight from Miami to Los Angeles in May, resulting in the postponement of the fight less than a week afterward.
“I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time,” Tyson said in a statement at the time of the postponement.
He added, “Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover. My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will be back to my full training schedule soon."
Tyson continued, “Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”
Internet shows unwavering support for Mike Tyson
Immediately after Mike Tyson disclosed his health challenges, reactions from his fans began appearing in the comments section.
Donald Trump Jr said, "You’re the man buddy. A true legend. Well done."
You’re the man buddy. A true legend. Well done.
— Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) November 17, 2024
Another added, "You are still the GOAT Iron Mike Tyson I dare anyone else to try and do the same "
You are still the GOAT Iron Mike Tyson
— Marjorie Taylor Greene Press Release (Parody) (@MTGrepp) November 16, 2024
I dare anyone else to try and do the same 👏
One commentator remarked, "Brother you won. You are the goat always"
Brother you won. You are the goat always pic.twitter.com/mapZqULW9B
— Stock PlayMaker 🌐 (@stockplaymaker1) November 16, 2024
"Don't explain. You still remain to be our Legend Iron Mike," a fan wrote.
Don't explain. You still remain to be our Legend Iron Mike
— BARRON TRUMP - Commentary (@TrumpBaroon) November 16, 2024
A person said, "Honestly you showed durability, heart, and above all else resilience. To overcome what happened in June and even get in the ring is the biggest win of the night. Forever the goat"
Honestly you showed durability, heart, and above all else resilience. To overcome what happened in June and even get in the ring is the biggest win of the night.
— Kenny Okoye🇳🇬 (@TruthfulUfcFan) November 16, 2024
Forever the goat 🐐 pic.twitter.com/bn1vu571So
Jake Paul chimed in, "Love you Mike. It was an honor. You’re an inspiration to us all."
Love you Mike. It was an honor. You’re an inspiration to us all.
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) November 16, 2024
This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.