Mike Tyson reveals he 'almost died' and had 8 blood transfusions months before losing to Jake Paul

Mike Tyson reveals he 'almost died' and had 8 blood transfusions months before losing to Jake Paul
Mike Tyson, who returned to the ring for the first time since 2005, lost to Jake Paul at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas (Getty Images)

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,” 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.

Jake Paul and Mike Tyson fight during LIVE On Netflix: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson at AT&T Stadium on November 15, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images for Netflix © 2024)
Jake Paul and Mike Tyson fight during 'LIVE On Netflix: Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson' at AT&T Stadium on November 15, 2024, in Arlington, Texas (Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

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.

Mike Tyson and Jake Paul fight during LIVE On Netflix: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson at AT&T Stadium on November 15, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images for Netflix © 2024)
Mike Tyson and Jake Paul fight during 'LIVE On Netflix: Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson' at AT&T Stadium on November 15, 2024, in Arlington, Texas (Al Bello/Getty Images)

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."



 

Another added, "You are still the GOAT Iron Mike Tyson I dare anyone else to try and do the same "



 

One commentator remarked, "Brother you won. You are the goat always"



 

"Don't explain. You still remain to be our Legend Iron Mike," a fan wrote.



 

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"



 

Jake Paul chimed in, "Love you Mike. It was an honor. You’re an inspiration to us all."



 

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.

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