Ryan Garcia makes offer to Jake Paul to replace Mike Tyson for fight after legend suffered health scare
Ryan Garcia has vowed to step in for Mike Tyson after the legend suffered a 'health scare'.
Heavyweight legend Tyson is set to return to the ring aged 58 and face YouTube star Jake Paul on July 20, despite a whole host of medical concerns given it will be a sanctioned professional bout.
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Reports emerged yesterday that Tyson had suffered an 'ulcer flare up' during a flight which left him 'nauseous and dizzy' and saw him receive medical attention.
Concerns were naturally raised as to whether the veteran will be in condition to fight this summer, but Paul insisted the showdown will be going ahead as planned.
But lightweight star Garcia, who is currently trying to prove his innocence after failing two drug tests, has offered to step in if Tyson is forced to withdraw.
He sent messages on Paul on Instagram, which read: "If you down to fight. If Mike can't do it. Let me know I will fill in."
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Paul quickly responded to the offer, playing down a clash, writing: "Everyone is trying to do everything they can to hurt this fight and attack me. You should know about that."
A bout between the pair would be highly unlikely, given Paul has bulked up to nearly 230lbs to face Tyson.
Garcia is currently competing at super-lightweight, and has yet to discover his fate after two failed drug tests following his win over Devin Haney.
Tyson also appears to have recovered sufficiently after his medical incident, while flying.
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And his team have offered a statement, which has downplayed chances of the show being cancelled.
"Thankfully Mr. Tyson is doing great," Tyson's representatives said.
Jake Paul attempts to intimidate Mike Tyson before legend turns his back during tense face off
"He became nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare up 30 minutes before landing.
"He is appreciative to the medical staff that were there to help him."
Tyson suffers from sciatica and was previously seen using a walking stick last year.
It is of huge concern to the boxing world that he will be returning in a competitive battle, given he hasn't fought in a professional clash since losing to Kevin McBride in 2005.
There are fears that Tyson could suffer brain damage given he could absorb punches from a much younger athlete at the age of 58 by the time the outing arrives.
He has attempted to allay concerns by posting a series of training clips, where he still possesses his natural power in short bursts.
The veteran has even vowed to inflict a KO on Paul, despite knowing he will be way beyond the peak of his powers.
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