Mike Tyson and Jake Paul suspended after record-breaking fight

Boxing legend Mike Tyson and social media star Jake Paul have both received 28-day suspensions from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) following their controversial eight-round fight in Dallas.

The fight smashed Netflix’s live streaming record, with 65 million viewers worldwide and 38 million from the U.S. alone. Despite the massive audience, fans and critics were divided over the event’s quality.

Under TDLR rules, fighters are required to rest for three days per round fought, leading to the 28-day suspension for both Tyson and Paul.

Tyson, 58, started strong but struggled with stamina as the fight progressed. Jake Paul, 27, took advantage and won by unanimous decision.

After the match, Paul apologised to fans, saying, “I’m sorry I didn’t knock him out,” and admitted to holding back out of respect for Tyson. While some praised Paul’s gesture, others criticised the fight for lacking intensity.

For Tyson, the fight was another chapter in his exhibition career. However, Paul views his victory as a step toward his goal of becoming a cruiserweight champion. “I believe I can win a title within the next 24 months,” he said.

The fight’s record-breaking success cemented Paul’s status as a major draw in boxing, but many fans compared it unfavourably to the co-main event between Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor. Their bout, filled with skill and determination, ended with Taylor winning by unanimous decision.

Both Serrano and Taylor also received 45-day suspensions due to TDLR regulations.

As Tyson and Paul serve their suspensions, debates continue about whether their fight was a true sporting event or simply a well-planned spectacle.