During a recent edition of his “Carcast” podcast, wrestler Goldberg discussed his forthcoming retirement match and drew parallels between himself and Mike Tyson ahead of Tyson’s bout with Jake Paul.
Goldberg will be the same age as Tyson, 58, when he enters the ring for his final match next year.
Here are some key takeaways from the podcast discussion:
Reflections on Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul: “In my professional view, the outcome wasn’t predetermined. It’s important to bear in mind the physical toll of such a match at the age of 58, an experience I can relate to as I prepare for my final fight. It’s paradoxical how the body may betray you first and yet the mind does not. Perhaps Tyson desired to accomplish more – deliver a better knockout punch, make a stronger impression in the boxing world. However, there’s a limit to what your body can do. He was clearly not at his best, as both Roy Jones Jr and Andre Ward pointed out. There’s enormous pressure, even in my line of work which may be perceived as less real, to live up to the condition people remember you in. After the fight, I found myself admiring Jake Paul, not for his boxing skill, but for his humanity. Despite the cocky persona he plays up, akin to Conor McGregor, to attract viewers, he demonstrated deep respect and restraint in his fight with Tyson.”
Discussing the pressure of his final match: “The key is to remain true to myself. While preparing for my last match, I often counsel my 18-year-old son who competes with people older and more experienced. Just as he fights his battles, I have mine facing opponents half my age. Despite the incredible pressure after watching Tyson and Paul, it cannot compare to the expectations I hold for myself.”
On training for the fight: “Knowing I have considerable time before and after the match to recover, I plan to hold nothing back. Preparation is often more daunting than the actual event. This time around, I have more preparation time than for any previous match. If I can’t be ready after all this prep, then it will never be enough.”
On high self-expectations: “I concede that I hold myself up to elevated standards. Despite previously damaging my shoulder, it’s in a better condition than it has been in the past decade, a fact that continues to surprise me. I am ahead of the curve and more prepared than ever before for my final performance. The opportunity to script my own exit strategy from the ring is a gift, something for which I am deeply thankful.”