Ryan Garcia claimed he started Jake Paul’s boxing career ahead of the YouTuber’s fight with Mike Tyson.
Last week, it was announced that Paul will face former world champion Tyson in a boxing match in Texas on July 20, with the bout set to be broadcast on Netflix.
Paul beat Ryan Bourland in his 10th professional fight last Saturday, while Tyson, widely regarded among the greatest heavyweights of all time, had his most recent exhibition bout in 2020, but has not boxed professionally since 2005.
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Ahead of the fight, controversial boxer Garcia predicted Tyson would knock out Paul while claiming that he had helped trigger the 27-year-old's boxing career.
Speaking on social media about the fight, Garcia said: "Ask him which house did he go to in Victorville to see how to box. Ask him that. I started him off. Who do you think took him to Canelo’s gym? Me.
“I’m the one that started his career. Little did you know. I’m the one that gave him this idea that he could change and make money off it. I’m the one that did it. Why do you think I’m the one that said, ‘Dang, I shouldn’t have done this.'”
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Garcia added that Tyson would knock Paul out within four rounds.
He continued: “I think he only needs four to beat Jake Paul.
“I don’t think he even needs four. I think if Mike hits him with one good one, it’s over, but that’s just me. I’ve met Mike.
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“Mike is a different breed, bro. When he steps in the room, you’re like, ‘Alright, now I know why people are scared.'”
Tyson was the first heavyweight to simultaneously hold the WBA, WBC and IBF titles in 1987 only for his reign as unified champion to come to a shock end in 1990 with a defeat to Buster Douglas. Tyson would briefly regain the WBA and WBC titles in 1996.
Meanwhile, Paul has won nine of his 10 bouts, mostly against former UFC fighters. His solitary defeat came against British heavyweight Tommy Fury in February 2023.
Chris Byfield