Boxing big-hitter Butterbean,has claimed he would “knock out” Mike Tyson as he eyes a heavyweight clash with the legendary fighter. The 58-year-old icon, real name Erik Esch, has been long angling for one last big scrap.
He has made no secret of his desire to face either Tyson or YouTuber-turned boxer Jake Paul, having called both men out in the past. Iron Mike is currently preparing for his long-awaited showdown with Paul which is scheduled to take place on November 15 in Arlington, Texas.
Since 2022, Butterbean has been on a quest to shape up and has lost over 200lbs. He currently weighs 290lbs and following his stunning transformation, the American legend is now hoping to face down Tyson in the ring for one final big pay-day.
Tyson was last seen in the ring four years ago when he faced Roy Jones Jr in an exhibition contest. He hasn’t fought professionally since 2005, where he lost to Kevin McBride, making any bout with Butterbean highly unlikely, despite his upcoming clash against Paul.
Paul, however, has been very much active in the ring and was last seen in action back in July. The self-styled ‘Problem Child’ secured a huge knockout against former UFC welterweight contender Mike Perry. Tyson and Paul were originally supposed to meet in July, however Tyson was forced to pull out of the contest because of an ulcer flare up. Not one to mince words, Butterbean believes the much hyped showdown between Paul and Tyson is a “scam” and in an excitable rant claimed the fight would never happen, despite it being earmarked for next month.
Speaking during a Q&A session, he said: “Him (Paul) and Tyson are never going to fight. That has been a scam from the very beginning just to boost Jake’s name – and it has.”