Training is taking a toll on Mike Tyson, according to the former heavyweight champion.
Tyson, 58, said things are “a little shaky’’ as he prepares to fight 27-year-old Jake Paul.
“It’s hard to walk right now,’’ said Tyson, who mentioned he’s training between three and four times a day. “But two months from now I’m going to be perfect.’’
Tyson, sidelined for several weeks after an ulcer flareup, on Friday discussed preparations for his Nov. 15 fight against Paul. He answered questions about himself while providing commentary during an event for Cage Wars, a mixed martial arts promotion.
The MMA event was held in Schenectady, New York, within an hour of where Tyson developed into the youngest world heavyweight champion in boxing history.
One of the regular Cage Wars announcers told Tyson the event on Friday was starting three hours earlier than usual.
“Is that so that you can get a good night’s sleep and make sure you’re up early tomorrow morning to get to start training for Jake Paul?’’ the announcer asked. “We’re trying to get you out of here a little early tonight?’’
Replied Tyson: “No, I’m going to enjoy my time here tonight with all my childhood friends, and the hell with Jake Paul.’’
Recently, Tyson said, he sparred six rounds. The number of rounds sparred will increase to 10 rounds as he prepares for the heavyweight bout scheduled for eight two-minute rounds.
“The fight is won in the gym,’’ Tyson said.
For recovery, Tyson is using electric stimulation and stem cells.
“Listen, I’ll do anything that will help me,’’ he said.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mike Tyson training hard for Jake Paul: ‘Hard to walk right now’
