Concerns were immediately raised about Mike Tyson’s health after it was announced that he would be fighting Jake Paul, with many expressing worry over the 30-year age difference between the two.
Nathan Howarth, Development and Operations Director at Concussion Legacy Foundation UK, recently expressed his concerns about Tyson’s return to the ring in an interview with Betway.
Boxing carries an inherent danger of concussion, as well as an elevated likelihood of severe brain injury, as evidenced by cases of brain bleeds.
While I am not implying that there is evidence suggesting that Mike [Tyson] would be at risk of this as an older fighter, it is important to consider the impact of subclinical concussions.
“We are aware that your risk of developing conditions like Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is increased by your exposure to head impacts.”
Medical professionals are increasingly focused on gaining a better understanding of CTE, a brain disease that has become more prevalent among retired NFL athletes. This has prompted an increase in safety measures and precautions regarding concussions in the sport.
However, it is Tyson’s age that is of greatest concern to Howarth in terms of the potential for serious brain injuries.
At 57 years old, the exact risks may not be known, but it is evident that there is a higher potential for older individuals to be impacted.
“Individuals who engage in boxing must be mindful of the potential hazards, especially for someone nearing 60 years of age. It is unlikely that the sport will have a beneficial effect on their brain, as studies suggest that the brain’s ability to heal diminishes with age.”
According to concussion specialist Howarth, even boxing icon Deontay Wilder has joined the discussion on the Tyson fight, criticizing the boxing commission.
“Sportsbook Review reported that Wilder expressed his disapproval of the commission’s decision to grant a license to Mike Tyson after a 20-year hiatus from boxing.”
“There are numerous instances where individuals have been struck in the wrong location and at an unfortunate time, resulting in comas.”
“Mike is deemed unfit for this. Ultimately, Mike’s significance is disregarded. It seems clear that there is a lack of concern for Mike, as the fight would not have been approved if anyone truly cared for him.”
According to Wilder, if a former boxing world champion were to lose to a YouTuber, it would damage Tyson’s reputation within the boxing community.
“I do not wish to witness a YouTuber challenge one of my idols,”Wilder expressed. “If he enters the ring and defeats Mike, it could potentially damage his legacy.”
“I don’t want my final memory of him to be getting knocked out by a YouTuber. The last actions a person takes are often what is remembered about them.”
According to Howarth, Tyson is putting himself at risk for serious brain damage by participating in a boxing match at an advanced age. Both Howarth and Wilder share concerns about Tyson’s well-being as the July 20 fight against Jake Paul approaches.
Leave a Reply