Mike Tyson releases first video statement after controversial Jake Paul fight confirmed

Mike Tyson has released a video statement after his controversial fight against Jake Paul was confirmed.

Last week, it was confirmed that Tyson and Paul will fight at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on July 20.

Announcing the fight, which is set to be streamed on Netflix, the platform wrote on social media: “It’s JAKE PAUL vs. MIKE TYSON — yes, really! — in a LIVE BOXING event at AT&T Stadium you won’t want to miss. Airing live on Netflix Saturday, July 20 #PaulTyson.”

Tyson said of facing Paul: “I’m very much looking forward to stepping into the ring with Jake Paul at the AT&T STADIUM IN ARLINGTON, TEXAS. He's grown significantly as a boxer over the years, so it will be a lot of fun to see what the will and ambition of a “kid” can do with the experience and aptitude of a GOAT.

“It's a full circle moment that will be beyond thrilling to watch; as I started him on his boxing journey on the undercard of my fight with Roy Jones and now I plan to finish him.”

The former heavyweight world champion has since posted a video on his social media.

Tyson was filmed saying: “Sign the contract big boy, come on, sign the contract.”

The video was posted to promote his new range of t-shirts.

Writing on social media, Paul said: “I could not be more excited to make this amazing fight available to all Netflix subscribers alongside the hardest hitter of all time, Mike Tyson, on Saturday, July 20th.

“Whether you're tuning in on Netflix or showing out in person, whether you're team Paul or team Tyson, or whether you're a lifelong boxing fan or watching your first fight, you're not going to want to miss this event.”

He added: “My sights are set on becoming a world champion, and now I have a chance to prove myself against the greatest heavyweight champion of the world, the baddest man on the planet and the most dangerous boxer of all time. Time to put Iron Mike to sleep.”