The world of boxing is once again at the center of controversy following rumors of a fight between Jake Paul and Gervonta Davis
Although both belong to very different divisions, the idea of a matchup has gained momentum, especially after Paul defeated Mike Tyson in a professional fight that was initially going to be an exhibition.
An unlikely but not impossible fight
During an episode of Sean O’Malley’s podcast, his trainer and a guest debated the feasibility of the fight. The phrase that resonated most was: “They put Tyson in a wheelchair to stand him up,” in reference to the effort that was made for the legendary former champion to fight Paul. This comparison was used to argue that if that was possible, then a duel between Paul and Davis could also be realized.
Differences in weight and size
Jake Paul fights at cruiserweight and has even competed at heavyweight, while Gervonta Davis has shone at super featherweight, lightweight and super lightweight. Paul is 6’1” and weighs over 200 pounds, while Davis is 5’5” and weighs around 150 pounds. The physical difference is abysmal, but it has not prevented both of them from showing interest in a possible confrontation.
The Tyson precedent
The fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson was a watershed moment. Initially planned as an exhibition, it ended up being a professional event sanctioned by the Texas Commission. Tyson, 58, was intensely prepared for the fight, which included physical recovery sessions that left him in a wheelchair before stepping into the ring.
Exhibition or professional fight?
Although there is no official confirmation yet, it is speculated that the fight between Paul and Davis could start as an exhibition and then become professional, as happened with Tyson. Paul’s team has stated that they are open to any format, as long as the result is “real” and definitive.
A fight that is still on everyone’s lips
The fight between Jake Paul and Gervonta Davis continues to divide opinion. The physical and stylistic differences are obvious, but Tyson’s precedent shows that, in modern boxing, almost anything is possible. The phrase about the wheelchair not only sums up the effort behind these shows, but also the willingness to break down barriers in the sport.
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