Eric ‘Butterbean’ Esch, the former boxing heavyweight, has issued a bold challenge to Mike Tyson, claiming he would “knock out” the legendary fighter.
The 58-year-old American, who has shed over 200lbs since 2022, now weighs 290lbs and is eyeing a showdown with Tyson or YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.
Butterbean’s callout comes as Tyson prepares for his highly anticipated bout with Paul, scheduled for 15 November in Arlington, Texas.
Despite his own lengthy absence from professional boxing, Esch remains confident in his ability to defeat the former heavyweight champion.
In a recent interview with AL.com, Butterbean launched a scathing attack on Tyson’s physique and fighting ability.
“I saw Mike about three weeks ago, and he looked pregnant,” Esch remarked. “I would knock him out. He has no chin.”
The former boxer didn’t stop there, labelling Tyson a “bully” and asserting, “His chin would be right there for the taking.”
Butterbean’s confidence stems from his belief that previous opponents failed to challenge Tyson effectively.
“The problem with those who have lost to Tyson is they didn’t challenge him,” he stated.
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Butterbean’s ambitions extend beyond Tyson, as he has repeatedly called out Jake Paul for a potential bout.
Earlier this year, Esch took to social media to challenge Paul to a £1.5 million winner-take-all showdown.
When his initial offer received no response, Butterbean persisted, sharing a video of himself hitting a heavy bag before addressing Paul directly: “Jake Paul, what you waiting on? Are we gonna do this or what?”
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The 58-year-old’s determination to secure a high-profile fight is evident, as he continues to pursue both Tyson and Paul despite the significant age gap and his long absence from professional boxing.
Despite his eagerness for a fight, Butterbean remains sceptical about the upcoming Tyson vs Paul bout.
In a Q&A session, he dismissed the match as a “scam”, stating, “Him (Paul) and Tyson are never going to fight.
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Mike Tyson will fight Jake Paul on November 15
GETTY
“That has been a scam from the very beginning just to boost Jake’s name – and it has.”
The fight, scheduled for 15 November in Arlington, Texas, has already faced setbacks.
Originally planned for July, it was postponed due to Tyson experiencing an ulcer flare-up.
Tyson, now 58, hasn’t fought professionally since 2005, with his last appearance being an exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr four years ago.