It may be an exhibition match, but Roy Jones Jr. expects Mike Tyson to come out swinging when the two meet in September.
Jones told ESPN on Tuesday that while betting on himself, he knows Tyson is as powerful as ever.
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“A lot of times people say legs are the first thing to go, and my legs were really a key part of my style, my skill level. They say power is the last thing left, and their power was the key element of their skill set, “he said.
“His skill set, his power, is still there. My skill set, my legs, are still there, but not what they used to be. So I wouldn’t be mad if they said he was the favorite, but I wouldn’t agree with that “.
Tyson and Jones, both in their 50s, will step into the ring for an eight-round exhibition game at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on September 12, but Jones says he anticipates Tyson will not stop.
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“For me, I know how to have fun in the ring and try to do my best,” he told ESPN. “But at the same time, Mike knows in a way. It’s like playing with a pit bull puppy. … He will play, but he will be lost because all he knows is [to] … ahead. So that’s all Mike knows: go ahead. So I have to be prepared for whatever Mike comes out. “
Rumors of Tyson’s return have been circulating for months after the 54-year-old man posted multiple videos on his social media showing his legendary skill set and speed. His coach said in May that Tyson could realistically fight again in six months if he wanted to.
Jones last entered the ring in February 2018, where he finished with a career record of 66-9. Tyson, by comparison, has not had a professional fight since June 2005. He is 50-6.
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“Because you are dealing with Mike Tyson, you are at the mercy of Mike Tyson,” said Jones.
“If Mike decides to turn it on for five seconds, who’s going to save you? No one. So you better be ready to save yourself. Better get ready for that. You don’t know what Mike could do. You don’t know what Mike might come to. Mike can get mad because he can’t hit you the way he wants. “
