Mike Tyson's most recent media appearance to promote his upcoming exhibition fight with fellow legend Roy Jones Jr. did not appear to go to plan.
Tyson, 54, joined Good Morning Britain hosts Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid on the Tuesday edition of the breakfast show via video call from Los Angeles — which was still in the latter stages of Monday night, Pacific time.
After some early technical issues, Tyson greeted Morgan and Reid with an overabundance of "peace" signs before ignoring some questions and answering others in very awkward fashion.
When Reid asked him about the potential dangers of two fighters now in their 50s competing without protective gear, Tyson didn't really answer the actual question.
"I think it’s very wonderful that we’re fighting together," said a tired-looking Tyson, who was seen rubbing his head and moving slightly out of camera view on multiple occasions throughout.
"It’s a fight that we should’ve had sooner, but unfortunately we’re having it now and that’s going to be awesome."
In response to Morgan's questions about the fight, Tyson responded:
"Pretty much, I am just ready to do this, I feel really good, I am ready to do this."
The entire segment led to concern from viewers on social media:
The Tyson-Jones Jr. exhibition will be contested with a referee under orders to shut the contest down if it goes "beyond the boundaries of a competitive boxing exhibition".
Tyson has gone on record in the past as saying he wants the bout to lead to a full-on "Legends Only" league for retired stars of various sports, but this transatlantic media appearance has prompted more doubts than intrigue.