When two big names like Jake Paul and Mike Tyson step into the ring, you expect fireworks. But for Shaquille O’Neal—NBA legend, cultural icon, and no stranger to the thrill of competition—the much-hyped Paul vs. Tyson fight didn’t just fail to deliver, it felt like a dud.
On a recent episode of The Big Podcast, Shaq didn’t hold back in sharing his thoughts on the bout, which saw Jake Paul defeat 58-year-old Tyson by unanimous decision. While the fight drew major buzz and filled seats in Dallas, O’Neal left unimpressed. “I felt like I got robbed,” he said bluntly.
Leading up to the event, concerns about Tyson’s age and health dominated the conversation. At 58 years old, Tyson isn’t the Iron Mike of old—he’s a boxing legend whose last pro win was all the way back in 2003. The pre-fight chatter even brought ethics into question, especially after a medical scare sidelined Tyson from a prior booking in July. Still, fans tuned in, lured by Tyson’s reputation and Paul’s penchant for making headlines in the ring.
The BIG Podcast with SHAQ
But the fight itself? According to Shaq, it lacked the sizzle fans paid for. “Great people like us, we’re remembered for what we do, and what we did,” O’Neal said, referring to Tyson’s illustrious career. “Mike was putting out those 15-second clips, and I love Mike, but he’s 58. I could cut a 10-second Instagram clip and make myself look like Victor Wembanyama—but that doesn’t mean I could get out there with the young boys.”
Shaq’s snark wasn’t reserved for Tyson alone. He took aim at Paul, too, suggesting there’s not much honor in beating someone well past their prime. “If Jake Paul really beats a 58-year-old Mike Tyson, is that something to be happy about? That’s like me playing a 70-year-old Wilt Chamberlain and bragging, ‘I’m the most dominant!’” O’Neal quipped.
O’Neal’s criticisms go beyond the entertainment value of the fight. They touch on the broader ethical questions surrounding celebrity boxing. “When [Evander Holyfield] fought Vitor Belfort, I didn’t feel good about that either,” Shaq added. “I just didn’t like it.”
Click here to see the full Big Podcast episode on YouTube
It’s a sentiment many fans and critics share. While these matchups may generate buzz and big bucks, they often leave audiences wondering if the spectacle overshadows the sport.
Still, despite O’Neal’s dissatisfaction, there’s no denying the financial success of Paul vs. Tyson. Streaming on Netflix, the fight drew massive viewership numbers, but it wasn’t without controversy. Rumors swirled post-fight, with some accusing Paul of tipping Tyson off to oncoming punches—a claim Paul’s camp strongly denied in a public statement.
For Shaq, authenticity and competition go hand in hand. While he acknowledges Tyson’s legendary status, he’s not here for smoke-and-mirrors performances. And as someone who knows a thing or two about legacy, O’Neal wants legends like Tyson to be remembered for their prime, not a lackluster comeback against a YouTuber-turned-boxer.
As Shaq put it, “If we’re celebrating Jake Paul for beating a legend who’s 58, what are we really celebrating?”
Even when a fight leaves him underwhelmed, Shaq never fails to entertain. Whether he’s on The Big Podcast dropping truth bombs or cheering ringside with other A-listers, he remains one of the most candid and entertaining voices in sports.
So, what’s next for Shaq? Probably something bigger and better than Paul vs. Tyson. As for Jake Paul, well, maybe it’s time for him to take on someone closer to his age and skill level. After all, Shaq’s watching—and he’s got plenty more to say.
Until the next big fight (or debate), you can always count on Shaq to bring the heat. 🏀💥