Mike Tyson's fight offer to Butterbean and fighting icon's clear response

Mike Tyson fighting Butterbean could have happened four years ago, and now may well be the next boxing match for 'Iron Mike' after his return to the ring against Jake Paul on November 15.

Talks transpired between their camps in 2020, but they could not agree to any deal. At that time, Butterbean, whose real name is Eric Esch, turned down the fight.

Esch explained then that he did not accept the offer because he was "old" after entering his mid-50s and had "nine grandkids." Butterbean, who last fought seven years prior, insisted he did not want to fight again.

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"I'm totally retired," he clarified. "There's a lot of talk about me being in that fight with Tyson, which was all actually offered to me as an exhibition.

"But I know when it's time, I know I'm old, I've got grandkids, I've got nine grandkids. I'm just enjoying my life right now."

He also acknowledged that his prime days were well behind him and that there was no need to prove anything further in the sport. Esch's preference was to dedicate more time to his family and friends.

However, four years later, the former heavyweight's stance has shifted. Esch has been on a transformative journey, shedding over 200lbs since 2022.

In an interview with AL.com, the former heavyweight made his case. "[Tyson's] chin would be right there for the taking. I would knock Mike Tyson out," Esch claimed.

"I saw Mike about three weeks ago, and he looked pregnant. I would knock him out.

"He has no chin. The problem with those who have lost to Tyson is they didn't challenge him."

In addition to his remarks about Tyson, Esch has been actively seeking a fight with Paul, repeatedly calling him out on social media to provoke a response. Esch made headlines earlier this year by challenging Paul to a £1.5 million winner-takes-all fight.

"Hey Jake Paul, would you fight me for $2m [£1.5m]? Winner takes all," he posted on social media.

Despite receiving no reply, Esch posted a video displaying his readiness, punching a heavy bag and exclaiming to the camera, "Jake Paul, what are you waiting on? Are we gonna do this or what?"