Mike Tyson weighed 228 lbs for his last fight against Jake Paul. He doesn’t look anywhere near that number now.
The former undisputed heavyweight champion has shown up noticeably slimmer as talk of a bout with Floyd Mayweather continues.
The Weight Shift Is The Real Signal
Tyson looks closer to cruiserweight territory than the heavyweight build he carried against Paul, and that matters more than any “it’s on” soundbite.
The cruiserweight limit is 200 lbs — nearly 30 pounds lighter than Tyson’s last outing. If he’s positioning himself anywhere near that range, it changes how this fight would realistically be structured.
Tyson confirmed the drop himself.
“I feel incredible,” Tyson said, pulling at his shirt to emphasize the difference. “I was extra large, I’m a large now.”
Heavyweights don’t usually fit into large sizing. The visual and the admission both point in the same direction.
There is still no official date for Tyson vs. Mayweather. But Tyson was clear when asked by TMZ Sports.
“Yeah, it’s happening,” Tyson said. “S***, yeah, it’s happening!”
A Catchweight Points To Logic
Mayweather has competed as high as super welterweight and is known to walk around at about 160 lbs. Even in an exhibition setting, a true heavyweight gap makes little business or competitive sense.
If this moves from talk to contract, a catchweight or firm upper limit is the logical route. Tyson trimming down now suggests that discussion is already happening.
Africa Timeline Doubtful, U.S. Shift Realistic
The bout has been floated for March in Africa, but with no confirmed date and limited runway, that window looks increasingly unrealistic.
If it lands this year, a U.S. venue such as Las Vegas is a far more practical staging ground.
Tyson’s body is sending the clearest message so far. A 228-lb Tyson suggested spectacle. A leaner, cruiserweight-looking Tyson suggests intent.
The date remains unsettled. The weight shift does not.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
