Boxing Legend's Comeback: Is It Safe?

At 58 years old, Mike Tyson is stepping back into the ring to face 27-year-old Jake Paul. Many, including legendary boxing broadcaster Jim Lampley, are worried about Tyson's health. After all, this is Tyson's first professional fight since 2005. The bout has been modified to eight two-minute rounds instead of ten three-minute rounds, and fighters will wear 14-ounce gloves instead of 10-ounce gloves to reduce the impact of punches. But the real concern is Tyson's age.

Dr. Julia Iafrate, a sports medicine physician, explains that as we age, our brains shrink while our skulls stay the same size. This means older boxers like Tyson are at a higher risk for brain injuries. Paul, despite not being a polished boxer, can throw big punches. He weighed in at 227. 2 pounds, just slightly lighter than Tyson at 228. 4 pounds. Boxing is risky at any age, but the risks increase with age. Even if Tyson relies on his power and smarts, the potential for serious harm is real. Shawn Porter, a two-time welterweight champion, points out that boxers choose this profession, and sometimes they do things at older ages that others might not. But the question remains: is this fight safe for Tyson?

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