As is typical for Drake, the rapper has once again faced a significant loss on a sports wager. This time, it was the boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson that led to his financial setback.
The highly anticipated bout, involving the YouTuber-turned-boxer and the heavyweight legend, took place this evening at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, following a year-long buildup.
In the end, Jake Paul emerged victorious, winning the bout by unanimous decision.
Many spectators and fans, including Drake, believed Tyson would claim victory, prompting the rapper to place a $355,000 bet on Tyson’s success.
However, those familiar with the so-called ‘Drake Curse’ know that the rapper’s bets on sporting events, whether UFC, soccer, or basketball, often end in disappointment, with his chosen winners frequently losing.
The internet seems to think Drake’s involvement might have played a part in Tyson’s loss tonight. One Twitter user remarked, “IT’S ALWAYS DRAKE.” Another commented, “I’ve never seen Drake win a bet.” A third added, “Mike Tyson might not have won but at least Drake lost.” And as one user put it, “Dude can’t catch a break this year.”
The initial plan for Tyson and Paul to fight was set for the summer, but Tyson had to withdraw due to an ‘ulcer flare-up’ that occurred just two months before the scheduled match.
Fans were eager to witness the event, with some paying up to $2 million for VIP tickets. All tickets for the event sold out, as 65,000 attendees filled the stadium, and millions more watched through Netflix’s global streaming service.
Though the exact amount of money at stake hasn’t been disclosed, it’s believed that the winner will take home tens of millions of dollars. At a press conference in August, Paul stated, “I’m here to make $40 million and knock out a legend.”
Rumor has it that Tyson’s purse is valued at $20 million.
The financial details for the loser remain uncertain, but both fighters have expressed that the money is not a necessity for them.
Celebrity Net Worth estimates Tyson’s worth at $10 million, while Paul is said to be worth $80 million, making it a substantial payday for either boxer, despite their lack of concern for the financial reward.