Jake Pauls shocking unanimous decision victory over Mike Tyson has left the boxing world in shock, but it was Pauls immediate reaction that captured even more attention. After eight intense rounds, Paul emerged the victor, however, he shocked everyone when he admitted in a post-fight interview that he actually didnt want to hurt Mike and that he, in a sense, carried him during the fight.

The matchup, which took place in Arlington, Texas, was one of the most anticipated in recent boxing history. Jake Paul, known for his transition from YouTuber to professional boxer, faced living legend Mike Tyson, who at 58 had decided to return to the ring. Despite expectations about Tysons power, the fight quickly proved that Pauls youth and resilience would make the difference.

The fight was a back-and-forth of strategy, with Tyson starting strong in the early rounds but quickly losing ground to Pauls unstoppable pace and quickness. Although Tyson showed flashes of his ability, it was clear that the physical difference between the two, given Tysons age, played in Pauls favor. At the end of the eighth round, the judges declared Paul the winner by unanimous decision, with scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 79-73.

However, what really surprised the public was Jake Pauls statement immediately after the fight. In an interview with the journalists present, Paul said: I didnt want to hurt Mike. I knew what he represented for boxing and I deeply respect him. I carried him a little bit, I wasnt trying to give him everything, since he was a legend, and I didnt feel comfortable with the idea of him suffering a humiliating defeat.

These words were unexpected, considering the intensity and competitive nature of boxing, where victory is the main goal, regardless of the opponents age. However, Paul made it clear that although he was focused on winning, his respect for Tyson influenced his approach during the fight.

Pauls statement divided the opinions of fans. On the one hand, some saw in his words a gesture of humility and respect towards a boxing icon, while others criticized him for not having shown his full potential and instead having gone soft on Tyson.

Its impressive that a 26-year-old has the respect to not want to humiliate a man who has given so much to boxing. But at the same time, I would expect someone as competitive as Jake Paul to not hold back his strength just out of respect, commented one fan on social media.