Texas Boxing Rules Require Rest After Paul-Tyson Fight

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After Mike Tyson stepped back into the boxing ring at age 58 to face influencer Jake Paul at Dallas’ AT&T Stadium in November, reports emerged about both fighters receiving “official bans” following their eight-round bout, which Paul won by decision.

While social media outlet SPORTbible correctly reported the bans on X, the announcement lacked crucial context about their nature. Rather than being punitive measures, these suspensions are routine safety protocols mandated by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation for all boxers.

Jake Paul and Mike Tyson receive official ban from boxing after Netflix super-fight pic.twitter.com/Wq5lwjSvo5

— Naija (@Naija_PR) November 23, 2024

Texas boxing regulations require competitors to observe a mandatory rest period of three days per completed round. Since Tyson and Paul completed eight rounds, both must observe a 24-day suspension from fighting.

Following the match, Paul addressed speculation about the bout’s legitimacy. He acknowledged holding back during the fight, stating in his post-match comments that he “didn’t want to hurt someone that didn’t need to be hurt.”

Mike Tyson Upset To Discover Jake Paul Fight Contract Includes 'No Punching Jake Paul' Clause https://t.co/8ntzLSQTyL pic.twitter.com/bqao7yVNFw

— The Babylon Bee (@TheBabylonBee) May 25, 2024

The temporary suspensions remain standard procedure, with neither boxer facing additional penalties beyond the required 24-day rest period. This marked Tyson’s first return to professional boxing since his retirement in 2005.