What happened to Mike Tyson? Boxing legend has in-flight medical scare before Jake Paul fight

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Jake Paul - Mike Tyson
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Former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson had a “medical emergency” on a plane from Miami to Los Angeles on Sunday, described as "an ulcer flare up," according to Tyson's representatives.

Tyson, who is due to fight YouTuber Jake Paul on July 20, was treated during the flight and then tended to by paramedics after landing.

MORE: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight odds, prediction, betting analysis

What happened to Mike Tyson?

“Mike had some kind of medical emergency on the plane and paramedics boarded,” an eyewitness told In Touch. “Before the paramedics arrived, the flight issued an announcement asking for a doctor — the message even came on everyone’s screens.“

The flight was originally delayed 80 minutes and Tyson had posed for pictures briefly with fans at the gate. There were no issues before takeoff and the incident allegedly took place shortly before landing.

“He was in first class, but we were an exit row,” the eyewitness continues. “They asked us to stay on the plane so paramedics could enter. [The stewardess] said something like, ‘He’s a really important passenger so we wanna make sure he’s OK.’ I knew it was him, but I just mouthed the words ‘Mike Tyson’ and she nodded her head yes.”

MORE: Explaining Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson rules and regulations

Thankfully, all seems to be well and the ex-champ recovered quickly.

“Thankfully Mr. Tyson is doing great. He became nauseous and dizzy due to an ulcer flare up 30 minutes before landing,” said Tyson’s rep in a statement to In Touch. “He is appreciative to the medical staff that were there to help him.”

Despite Tyson’s quick recovery, there will still be questions regarding the 57-year-old's ability to compete in a professional boxing match against a man 30 years his junior.

Is Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight still on?

At time of writing, there is nothing to suggest that the July 20 fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson is in jeopardy. The eight-round bout is scheduled to take place at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

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Tom Gray is a deputy editor covering Combat Sports at The Sporting News.
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