Chris Rock isn’t holding back when it comes to Jake Paul’s latest boxing match. During his recent hosting gig on Saturday Night Live, Rock took aim at Paul’s decision to fight 58-year-old Mike Tyson. The comedian mocked Paul for choosing an opponent well past his prime, questioning why the 27-year-old boxer would face someone old enough to be receiving senior discounts.
Chris Rock Takes a Swing at Jake Paul for Beating a 58-Year-Old Tyson
In the latest Saturday Night Live episode, Chris Rock made a reference to Paul during his opening monologue, adding his signature comedic style to the performance.
“It’s been a bad year for my people, the blacks. It’s not been a good year. Kamala [Harris] and [P.] Diddy, Jake Paul beating Mike Tyson. What the hell?” Chris Rock said. “Who is this Jake Paul, this 27-year old punching a 60-year old man in the face? Is this what the white man has reduced himself to? Stop it! Well, who’s he going to fight next? Morgan Freeman?”
“I hate Jake Paul! I got landlord hate for him. I hate him! I hate him like cocaine hates monogamy.”
The match, held on November 15 at AT&T Stadium, ended with Paul winning by split decision. Tyson, despite his legendary status, appeared sluggish and struggled to keep up with Paul’s younger energy. While Tyson showed glimpses of his former self, he couldn’t manage to match Paul’s speed and stamina.
The event, however, was a massive success in terms of viewership, breaking records for the most-streamed sporting event in U.S. history. 65 million households tuned in via Netflix, and Paul reportedly earned $40 million, with Tyson taking home $20 million.
Despite the financial success, the fight didn’t win over many fans. Critics, including other fighters, called out the unusual rules and the lack of action during the match.
Jake Paul, on the other hand, seems indifferent to the criticism, focusing instead on the financial rewards and attention his matches bring. As the debate continues about whether his approach is good for boxing, one thing is clear, Chris Rock’s jokes landed harder than most of the punches in the ring.