**Butterbean Opens Door to Mike Tyson Fight After Overcoming Personal Struggles**
Boxing enthusiasts may have reason to celebrate, as former heavyweight star Butterbean has expressed renewed interest in finally facing Mike Tyson – a contest long speculated but repeatedly postponed. Butterbean, whose real name is Eric Esch, has shed light on the circumstances that prevented the fight in 2020 and shared his motivations for potentially stepping back into the ring.
The prospect of a Butterbean-Tyson showdown first gained momentum five years ago. At the time, Butterbean, who retired from professional boxing in 2013, categorically dismissed any comeback rumours. However, he has now revealed that health rather than hesitation was at the root of his decision. In a recent interview, the 58-year-old American explained, “The reason I turned it down was because I couldn’t walk. I was in a wheelchair. There’s no way you can take a fight in that condition.”
During his years away from the ring, Butterbean endured significant physical challenges. His weight soared to 515 pounds (36.7 stone), leaving him largely immobile and confined to a wheelchair. This period took a toll on his mental health, with the former boxer battling depression so severe he struggled to get out of bed for almost a year. Reflecting on his battles, he acknowledged the often-unseen mental struggles of public personalities: “People don’t realise how common depression is for fighters and celebrities. When you lose faith in yourself and can’t even walk to the shop, it gets grim.”
Butterbean credits his remarkable turnaround to an intensive training programme developed by former WWE wrestler ‘Diamond’ Dallas Page. Through a regimen focused on yoga and fitness, he has shed over 15 stone, bringing his weight down to a much leaner 285 pounds. “I feel better now at my age than I did in my twenties,” he said. “It’s like I’ve found the Fountain of Youth.”
Now, reinvigorated and out of his wheelchair, Butterbean has Tyson firmly in his sights for what he promises would be his last appearance in the sport. He voiced confidence about his chances, telling journalists: “People don’t realise Tyson doesn’t have much of a chin. He’s usually so quick, he’s hard to hit, but I’ve sparred with fighters trained just like him and had no problems.”
Tyson, while representing the pinnacle of Butterbean’s ambitions, is not the only potential opponent. The YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, who has risen to prominence with a string of high-profile fights, is also of interest. Butterbean reflected, “Jake talked a lot when I was at my worst, but now I’m ready and in shape at 285. He’s hesitant because he knows I’m a legend, but the challenge is open.”
Since debuting in 2020, Paul has carved an unconventional path, amassing a 12-1 record and recording victories over notable fighters like Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz. Butterbean, while acknowledging Paul’s achievements, appears convinced he can offer both Tyson and Paul a real fight, placing either contest on the table.
Part of Butterbean’s recent resurgence has also involved new business ventures. He has partnered with Lucky Energy to launch his own beverage, Butterbean’s Knockout Punch, a fruity energy drink, and appeared in promotional videos teasing his boxing comeback. At a mock press conference, he warned: “There’s only one fighter who likes taking on retired, bald guys. Jake Paul, I’m coming for you.”
Although at present no official date or agreement exists for either contest, Butterbean’s transformation has reopened possibilities many believed closed. His story stands as a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the enduring lure of the boxing ring.
Whether a bout with Tyson or Paul materialises remains to be seen. What is certain is that Butterbean, against considerable odds, has reclaimed his life – and, potentially, his place among the heavyweight greats. Boxing fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if this anticipated clash finally becomes a reality.