Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr. reportedly sells 1.2 million pay-per-views
Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr. was a smashing success.
On Saturday night, Tyson and Jones Jr. returned to the ring for an exhibition match that captured the attention of the sporting world. Many were intrigued to see how Tyson would look after not boxing since 2005. The card also saw YouTuber, Jake Paul brutally knock out Nate Robinson and former world champion, Badou Jack vs. Blake McKernan.
It was a very unique card on paper but one many thought was must-see TV. And, according to boxing reporter, Dan Rafael, the event sold around 1.2 million pay-per-views.
I believe the number was so huge because it was a perfect storm. Massive nostalgia during the pandemic. The pandemic kept a lot of people at home over Thanksgiving weekend. The price was $50 not the absurd $80ish for other #boxing events. Curiosity factor about Tyson.
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) December 2, 2020
It is no doubt a massive success for Legends Only League, Triller, and everyone involved. But, as Rafael pointed out, it happening on Thanksgiving weekend, and only charging $50 instead of $80 no doubt added some buys.
With the event having so much success, it should be no surprise to see Mike Tyson box again. He could rematch Jones Jr., but could also take on someone like Evander Holyfield who has been calling him out. The former undisputed heavyweight champion even confirmed after the event he would box again.
“I used to do it for three minutes – and sometimes it would only last two minutes,” Mike Tyson said after the fight. I’m just happy I got this under my belt and I’m looking to go further and do more. Absolutely (I’ll do it again). I was very happy to be here. Everybody knows I can go eight or 10 rounds, and that’s what I’m grateful for. Fighting.”
Although Tyson was paid quite a bit for his return, he said he was donating a good chunk to charity. So, when he fights again, he will continue to do that as he says he is focused on helping people in need.
“No, this is bigger than winning championships,” he said. “We’re humanitarians – we’re helping people. This is bigger. I’m into that now.”
