Lennox Lewis is throwing his weight behind Mike Tyson for the upcoming battle against Jake Paul, predicting a tough fight ahead.

Although it’s been years since Tyson’s last professional match ended in defeat to Kevin McBride in 2005, he made a comeback of sorts in an exhibition with Roy Jones Jr. just four years ago. Tyson, 58, plans to duke it out with “The Problem Child” on November 15 at Texas’ own AT&T Arena, where as many as 90,000 spectators can witness the clash.

Tyson and Paul were initially slated to spar earlier in the year, but Tyson had to bow out due to an ulcer issue and was told to hang up his gloves temporarily. Despite concerns over his health and some shade being thrown over the fight due to the extensive age gap – Tyson being 31 years senior to Paul – critics are watching closely.

Plenty have put their bets on young gun “The Problem Child” to triumph on Texan soil. However, earlier in the year, Lewis – who once faced Tyson in the ring – is convinced that ‘Iron Mike could surprise folks. “I’m concerned for Jake Paul,” Lennox told The Guardian.

“Tyson still knows how to punch, as you can see when he’s hitting a bag. If Jake Paul gets hit by one of those punches, he’s going to feel it. I know Jake Paul doesn’t want to get hit. Tyson comes forward and he knows how to cut off the ring.

“It could be a matter of time, as how good is Jake Paul’s defence? I saw Mike a couple of weeks ago and he looked good. He was walking around without a shirt and showing off his body so he’s getting ready.”

Back in their prime, Lewis bested Tyson in 2002 with a knockout in the eighth round, defending his collection of heavyweight world titles. Speaking with TMZ, Lennox “The Lion” has again forecasted the outcome of the upcoming fight, backing Tyson to win against Paul if his condition is on point.

Tyson hasn't fought professionally for 19 years

Tyson hasn’t fought professionally for 19 years ( 

Image:

Getty Images for Netflix)

“I would hope he would go into a fight where he would win,” Lewis commented. “He’s a boxer, he knows how to protect himself, he knows how to throw body shots, he knows how to cut off the ring. He is younger than me so it really depends on his mobility, whether he can move fast around the ring when he’s going after a younger guy.

“We will have to see. I haven’t seen him lately to know if he can take it, but I have seen him looking muscular, so of course he can take it if he is in good shape.”

Lewis also hinted at a potential rematch with Tyson. He said: “Let’s see how he makes out in this fight first. I have spoken to Mike, just about fighting. Let’s hope his health is ok. You can’t see things on the outside that may be affecting you on the inside. I wouldn’t want to say he is okay then all of a sudden something happens.”