Heavyweight Champ Who Beat George Foreman Says He’ll “100%” Replace Mike Tyson In Jake Paul Fight

A former heavyweight champion is ready to step in to fight Jake Paul if Mike Tyson doesn’t make it to the ring.

‘Iron’ Mike was set to face the YouTuber turned boxer back in July but an ulcer flare-up for the 58-year-old caused him to postpone the bout.

“I want to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flareup, I have been advised by my doctor to lighten my training for a few weeks to rest and recover.

My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will be back to my full training schedule soon. Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end you will still be knocked out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone’s patience and can’t wait to deliver an unforgettable performance later this year.”

Both the health issue and Tyson’s age have caused some within the sport, such as former world champion Shawn Porter, to say the fight will never happen.

One man who is ready to step in on late notice if the heavyweight icon doesn’t make it to fight night is Shannon Briggs.

Briggs beat George Foreman and Ray Mercer during his 68 fight career and also faced the likes of Lennox Lewis and Vitali Klitschko.

‘The Cannon’ finally won the WBO heavyweight title in 2006 when he defeated Siarhei Liakhovich in the very last second of the fight.

In an interview with Bloody Elbow, Briggs says he is returning to the ring and is ‘100%’ ready to replace Tyson if called upon.

‘100% I’m coming back and fighting. I’ll fight Mike Tyson, Jake Paul anybody.

It’s a great fight. It’s great for Mike because at his age he can still make money, it’s amazing, let’s go champ!

If it happens, then great, but if it don’t I’m here, let’s go champ. 100% [I’ll step in to face Paul if Mike Tyson doesn’t make it], sign me up and I’d do it for free, they wouldn’t even have to pay me.”

Paul vs Tyson takes place on November 15 at the AT&T Stadium in Texas and will be broadcast live on Netflix.