Mike Tyson says his defeat by Jake Paul felt like a victory because he “almost died” earlier this year.
The 58-year-old was defeated by the YouTuber-turned-boxer in a unanimous points decision during Friday’s controversial fight in Texas.
Reflecting on the match, Tyson shared on Instagram: “This is one of those moments where you lose but still come out winning.”
He added, “I’m grateful for last night—no regrets about stepping into the ring one last time.”
“I almost died in June,” Tyson revealed. “I had eight blood transfusions, lost half my blood, dropped 25 pounds in the hospital, and had to fight hard to recover so I could compete. So, I won.”
The fight left fans disappointed, with boos erupting toward the end due to the lackluster action. Tyson landed just 18 punches over eight rounds compared to Paul’s 78, marking his seventh loss in 57 fights.
Originally scheduled for July, the bout was postponed in May following medical advice after Tyson suffered a stomach ulcer flare-up—an issue he now acknowledges was far more severe than initially thought.
Reflecting on the experience, Tyson said: “Having my children see me go toe-to-toe and complete eight rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboys stadium is a moment no man has the right to ask for.”
“Thank you,” he added.
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