At the age of 58, former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson has decided to return to the boxing ring, facing off against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on July 20, 2024, at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. For the average person, this is an extremely risky endeavor at such an advanced age. Here are some of the potential biological risks that the legendary “Iron Mike” may face as he steps back into the ring.
Repeated blows to the body and head are inevitable in a boxing match, and Tyson is likely to experience these from his younger opponent, who will be seeking a knockout victory. The direct impact of these strikes can have immediate consequences. One potential issue is the risk of a subdural hematoma, a condition where the blood vessels connecting the brain to the meningeal layers are ruptured, causing blood to accumulate and exert pressure on the brain. This can lead to confusion, loss of consciousness, neurological deficits, and in some cases, death.
As individuals age, the brain tends to lose volume, which can elongate the bridging blood vessels and make them more susceptible to rupture. Alcoholism, which Tyson has struggled with in the past, is known to accelerate brain atrophy, further increasing the risk.
At middle age, the chances of heart-related issues, such as arrhythmias, angina, and myocardial infarction (heart attack), also increase. Intense physical activity can cause cardiac fibrosis, leading to heart failure or even sudden death over time. Coronary atherosclerosis, a common occurrence in middle-aged individuals, even in seemingly healthy people, can also result in sudden death during exercise. Tyson’s history of cocaine use significantly exacerbates this risk.
Blows to the chest can also be problematic. Commotio cordis, a condition where the heart muscle is damaged by such impacts, can lead to irregular heart rhythms, reduced cardiac contractility, and even death.
Given Tyson’s age and his previous health struggles, the risks he faces by returning to the boxing ring are substantial. While his competitive spirit and desire to entertain his fans are understandable, the potential biological consequences of this decision are serious and should not be overlooked. The decision to step back into the ring at 58 years old is a risky one, and Tyson and his team must carefully weigh the potential rewards against the significant health hazards he may encounter.
