Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul: Disinterested Tyson agitates Paul at odd news conference

Mike Tyson spoke just a few words, Jake Paul made crude references and Briton Tony Bellew was escorted out of the arena by security at a baffling news conference in Texas.

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson, 58, will face YouTuber-turned-fighter Paul, 27, at Dallas’ AT&T Stadium on Friday.

Tyson has not fought as a professional in 19 years and appeared disinterested as Paul dominated the microphone.

Paul tried to goad Tyson by asking him about comments made in a documentary where the former champion described himself as “natural born killer”.

Tyson refused to play ball. “That’s what I said,” he replied.

Perhaps the most bizarre moment at Wednesday’s event at the Toyota Music Factory in Irving came when Liverpool’s Bellew inaudibly shouted into a microphone – which he had brought along – from the press area.

The chaos was quite fitting for an event criticised by many boxing purists, but it was given some credibility by the presence of pound-for-pound greats Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano.

Light-welterweight champion Taylor edged her rival to win by split decision in an all-time classic in 2022.

The pair – who will compete for the undisputed title in the chief support – conducted themselves appropriately to build up to the richest fight in female boxing.