Former Bellator lightweight title contender Alexandr Shabliy shared his thoughts on Jake Paul's victory over Mike Tyson in an exhibition match during an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net.
The fight between Tyson and Paul did not impress me at all. Frankly, I had no expectations about it at all. I knew I’d be watching an aged fighter. It’s great that he has the strength to step into the ring, and the event was organized well, but given the age difference, the whole situation was cringe-worthy. It would have been a different story if Tyson had fought a boxer of his own age.
Alexandr Shabliy exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
"Although Jake Paul isn’t a professional boxer, he is young and understands the sport. So overall, the show didn’t impress me. That said, Mike is and always will be a legend. We grew up watching his fights, so it was really uncomfortable to see him getting hit. No matter how you look at it, that takes a toll on his health, and at his age, it will have consequences," Shabliy said.
It's worth noting that the match between Tyson and Paul went the full eight rounds and ended with Paul winning by unanimous decision, with the judges scoring it 79-73.