Why Mike Tyson Fought Jake Paul: A Debt from 38 Years Ago?

More than three decades after their infamous 1986 fight, Mitch Green is reigniting controversy surrounding his bout with boxing legend Mike Tyson. In a recent interview on Vlad TV, Green made serious allegations regarding financial issues and even claimed that he might pursue legal action against Tyson due to what he perceives as unfair treatment.

The 1986 Fight and Financial Disparity

Green and Tyson faced off in May 1986, in a match that revealed a stark financial discrepancy. Tyson, then an up-and-coming star, was reportedly paid $200,000 for the fight, while Green only took home $30,000. However, Green claims that Tyson could have earned as much as $1 million.

“They said $750,000, in some interviews they said he got a million,” Green recalled.

This surprising revelation comes just weeks after Tyson suffered a shocking loss to YouTube star Jake Paul in Texas, where Tyson, despite being a legend, was reported to have earned $20 million. Green’s comments continue to reflect his deep resentment over the financial disparity from their 1986 fight and subsequent events related to Tyson.

Don King and Financial Deception

Green also accused the famous promoter Don King of deceiving him regarding the financial agreements. “Don King was the one who set up the fight… I asked, ‘[Tyson] was paid how much?’ And he responded, ‘A little more!'” Green shared.

Tension and Breakdown Before the Fight

Green’s frustration boiled over during the weigh-in, when he initially threatened to back out of the fight. Ultimately, he agreed to fight after negotiating his contract release with Carl King, Don King’s son, despite receiving a lower purse.

Aftermath of the Fight and the 1988 Street Brawl

Though encouraged by his mother, Green admitted that his enthusiasm waned due to the pay disparity. Tyson won the fight by unanimous decision, further cementing his rapid rise in boxing. However, Green’s grievances with Tyson did not end after their 1986 match.

In 1988, the two crossed paths again at a Dapper Dan clothing store in Harlem. Tyson, there to pick up a custom-made jacket, was confronted by Green, who wanted a rematch. The encounter escalated into a street brawl, leaving Green with a swollen eye and Tyson requiring treatment for a broken hand.

The Endless Lawsuit

Green filed a lawsuit against Tyson, seeking $25 million in damages. However, after nine years of litigation, Green only received $45,000—a fraction of the amount he initially demanded, which was not even enough to cover his legal fees.