Heavyweight champion who beat George Foreman says he’ll ‘100 percent’ replace Mike Tyson in Jake Paul fight

A former heavyweight champion is ready to step in to fight Jake Paul if Mike Tyson doesn’t step into the ring.

“Iron” Mike was scheduled to face the YouTuber-turned-boxer in July, but an ulcer flare-up in the 58-year-old prompted him to postpone the fight.

“I would like to thank my fans around the world for their support and understanding during this time. Unfortunately, due to my ulcer flare-up, my doctor has advised me to ease off my training for a few weeks to rest and recover.

“My body is in better overall shape than it has been since the 1990s and I will soon be back to my full training schedule. Jake Paul, this may have bought you some time, but in the end, you will still be out and out of boxing for good. I appreciate everyone’s patience and look forward to putting on an unforgettable performance later this year.”

Tyson’s health problems and age have led some in the sport, such as former world champion Shawn Porter, to claim the fight would never happen.

One man who is ready to step in at the last minute if the heavyweight icon fails to show up for the fight is Shannon Briggs.

Briggs defeated George Foreman and Ray Mercer during his 68-fight career and also faced fighters like Lennox Lewis and Vitali Klitschko.

“The Cannon” finally won the WBO heavyweight title in 2006 when he defeated Siarhei Liakhovich in the very last second of the fight.

In an interview with Bloody Elbow, Briggs says he’s returning to the ring and is “100 percent” ready to replace Tyson if he wants to.

“I’m sure I’ll come back and fight. I’ll fight Mike Tyson, Jake Paul and whoever.

This is a great fight. It’s great for Mike because at his age he can still make money, it’s unbelievable, let’s go champ!

If it happens, great, but if it doesn’t, I’m here, we become champions. 100% (I’ll come fight Paul if Mike Tyson isn’t here), sign me up and I’ll do it for free, they wouldn’t even have to pay me.

Paul vs. Tyson will take place on November 15 at AT&T Stadium in Texas and will be streamed live on Netflix.