The boxing world was shocked by the announcement that Mike Tyson would fight Roy Jones Jr. on Sept 12 in an eight-round exhibition fight.
WBN reported that contrasting odds were released on the line almost immediately. One bookmaker had Jones the big favorite. The other saw it wide for Tyson. Fans were licking their lips at the prospect.
MY BOOKIE saw it like this: Mike Tyson -300 Jones +200.
BOVADA went for Mike Tyson +120 Jones -160.
Quite a contrast in views.
Tyson vs Jones odds
Now, a few days on, and with time to digest the fact that the contest is actually happening, oddsmakers are siding with Tyson.
‘Iron’ Mike is -225 and holds a 69.2% chance of winning. For his part, Jones Jr is +230 and has a 30.3% chance of winning.
The big question is, are those fraction crunchers listening to the hype too much?
Videos of Tyson on social media have gone viral time and again. At the same time, Jones has quietly gone about his business training, like Chris Eubank Jr.
One massive advantage Jones holds over his former pound-for-pound king is activity.
Jones went a complete ten rounds just two years ago. Tyson certainly hasn’t gone ten rounds for 24 YEARS. This bout is scheduled for eight.
Despite fears over his safety in what is now called ‘David vs Goliath, the belief is that RJJ only has to get through the first minute of every round.
By that time, Tyson could be blowing hard at 54 and be ripe for the picking for the remainder of the session.
Known for his speed, a more spritely Jones, 51, could be too elusive for Tyson, leaving money to be made for those who a willing to risk it.
Mike Tyson viral videos
Thirty-second bursts of punches are all good and well in the gym, but putting them into practice against Jones could be a different story entirely.
We all know Jones is susceptible to a hard punch, though. Enzo Maccarinelli proved that in Moscow five years ago.
Back then, Jones obviously thought Maccarinelli was way past his best. He didn’t reckon with the Welshman being a puncher, and that’s the last thing to leave any fighter.
If Tyson can catch Jones early, that would undoubtedly be the key to success.
The differences between both men, coupled with their age, are what makes it all the more intriguing to witness.
It all goes down on September 12 in Los Angeles on Pay-Per-View as the dawn of a new legends era begins.
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