At a press conference held at Fanatics Fest in New York City, boxing legend Mike Tyson appeared unfazed by Jake Paul’s provocations as they promoted their upcoming fight on November 15. Despite Paul’s best efforts to stir controversy and taunt the former heavyweight champion, Tyson, 58, showed little interest in engaging, maintaining a calm and bemused demeanor throughout the event.

Jake Paul, 27, embraced his role as the “villain,” delighting in boos from the crowd and responding with insults and obscene gestures. He compared himself to Muhammad Ali, claiming to be the “anti-hero” of modern boxing. Paul also mocked Tyson for postponing the fight, originally scheduled for July, due to a reported ulcer flare-up, which Paul dismissively called a “menopause break.”

Tyson, however, refused to take the bait, often shaking his head and asking the audience to “be respectful.” The contrast between this composed attitude and Tyson’s past as a fierce, trash-talking champion was stark. Tyson seemed to treat the event as a mere spectacle, hinting that he would let his actions in the ring speak for themselves.

Paul repeatedly emphasized what a victory over Tyson would mean for his career and finances, boasting of potential earnings and the historical significance of knocking out a boxing legend. Yet Tyson’s lack of engagement suggested he saw little to prove, given his storied career.

As the press conference wrapped up, Tyson did offer a glimpse of his old self, declaring that he would “f*** [Paul] up” and predicting that Paul would spend the fight running from him. While Tyson’s lighthearted approach during their face-off might suggest he’s in it for the rumored $20 million payday, it remains to be seen if he’ll bring the same intensity to the ring in Arlington, Texas.