Mike Tyson makes decision on boxing future after almost dying before Jake Paul fight

Mike Tyson has now admitted his illness was far worse than previously thought, revealing he required emergency treatment when he lost half of his blood

Mike Tyson has revealed he almost died in the build-up to his fight with Jake Paul as he announced his retirement from boxing.

Tyson, 58, was outpointed by YouTube star Paul, 27, in front of more than 70,000 fans in Dallas on Friday night. Paul later claimed he took it easy on the former undisputed heavyweight world champion who suffered an ulcer flare-up in May, forcing him to postpone his first professional fight in almost 20 years.

And Tyson has now admitted his illness was far worse than previously thought, revealing he required emergency treatment when he lost half of his blood.

“This is one of those situations when you lost but still won,” he said. “I’m grateful for [Friday] night and have no regrets about getting in the ring one last time.

“I almost died in June; I had eight blood transfusions. I lost half my blood and 25lbs in hospital and had to fight to get healthy to fight so I won.

“To have my children see me stand toe to toe and finish eight rounds with a talented fighter half my age in front of a packed Dallas Cowboy stadium is an experience that no man has the right to ask for.”

Paul had promised to knock out Tyson but in the end felt sorry for the fighter formerly known as The Baddest Man on the Planet.

Tyson never looked like causing Paul problems as the younger man cruised to victory on the judges’ scorecards.

“I wanted to give the fans a show; I didn't want to hurt someone that didn't need to be hurt," said the winner. There was a point where he wasn't engaging back. I don't know if he was tired but I could tell his age was showing a little bit.

“I had so much respect for him... after he slapped me I wanted to be aggressive, take him down and knock him out but that went away as the rounds went on."