A landmark moment for women`s boxing recently unfolded as Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano completed their epic trilogy bout live on Netflix. While the spotlight was firmly on the two elite athletes delivering a memorable performance, a high-stakes side plot involving event promoter Jake Paul and boxing icon Mike Tyson added a unique layer of intrigue, culminating in a significant financial transaction.
The Million-Dollar Wager
Jake Paul, who has increasingly positioned himself as a serious force in boxing promotion, particularly for elevating women`s boxing, was heavily invested in the success of the Taylor-Serrano 3 event. Amanda Serrano is signed to Paul`s Most Valuable Promotions. To further amplify interest and perhaps demonstrate confidence in his fighter, Paul entered into a rather substantial wager with the legendary Mike Tyson.
The terms of the bet were remarkably straightforward for such a large sum: if Amanda Serrano won the third fight, Mike Tyson would owe Jake Paul $1 million. Conversely, if Katie Taylor emerged victorious, Jake Paul would be writing a check for $1 million to Mike Tyson. A clear financial incentive tied directly to the outcome of the main event.
Taylor Secures Victory, Tyson Secures Winnings
The highly anticipated third meeting lived up to expectations, showcasing the skill and tenacity of both champions. After a grueling contest that went the distance, Katie Taylor was awarded the victory via majority decision, retaining her super-lightweight championship and definitively winning the trilogy series against her formidable rival.
Taylor`s win had immediate repercussions beyond the ring. For Mike Tyson, it signaled that the terms of the bet had been met, and his account was due for a seven-figure boost.
Tyson`s Swift Claim
Quickly acknowledging the result and, more pointedly, his winnings, Mike Tyson took to social media platform X. His message was concise and direct, leaving no ambiguity about the bet`s resolution.
Posting his reaction, Tyson stated: “Congrats to Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano on the trilogy fight on Netflix. Jake Paul, see you at dinner to collect my million!” It was a simple, almost casual declaration to his fellow boxing personality, confirming the settlement of their high-profile wager. One can only speculate on the conversation and the menu during that particular meal.
Paul Reflects on the Event
Despite his fighter losing the decision and the subsequent $1 million payout, Jake Paul`s public response focused on the broader impact of the event. Recognizing the significance of the all-women`s championship card and the quality of the main event, Paul`s post on X offered a different perspective.
Paul`s reaction was equally brief: “Women won tonight.” This statement underscores his apparent commitment to shining a light on women`s boxing. While he personally lost the bet on Serrano, the overall success and visibility of the event, which reportedly earned a Guinness World Record for the most world championship belts contested on a single card, could be viewed as a win for his promotional efforts and the sport itself. It highlights a pragmatic approach: lose a personal wager, but gain credibility and advance a cause you support.
Beyond the Bet: Paul`s Evolving Role
This entire scenario, from the high-stakes bet with a legend like Tyson to promoting a historic women`s boxing card, illustrates the unique and sometimes unpredictable path Jake Paul is carving in the boxing world. Transitioning from polarizing celebrity fighter to a significant promoter, he is increasingly involved in facilitating legitimate, high-level contests.
His willingness to make such public, high-value wagers adds an element of theatre that keeps eyes on the sport and his endeavors. It`s a blend of spectacle and genuine business, perhaps suggesting a growing seriousness in his long-term involvement with boxing, even if it comes with expensive lessons paid out to icons like Mike Tyson.
While Katie Taylor`s dominant victory was the sporting headline of the night, the post-fight dynamic involving Jake Paul, Mike Tyson, and a cool $1 million provides a fascinating footnote. It`s a reminder that in the complex world of boxing, the interactions and financial stakes between its key figures, both in and out of the ring, are often just as compelling as the fights themselves.
