Sports fans around the world are expressing concerns over the recent return of American boxing icon Butterbean, whose real name is Eric Esch.
The 58-year-old heavyweight, known for his larger-than-life presence in the ring, has stunned fans not only with his comeback but also with the dramatic weight loss journey he’s undergone in recent years.
A Remarkable Transformation: 90 Kilos Shed
Butterbean, a former IBA super heavyweight champion, professional wrestler, and kickboxer, has revealed that he once tipped the scales at an astonishing 26 stone (233 kg).
However, after years of struggle, he has shed an incredible 15 stone (90 kg), completely transforming his body.
His impressive weight loss has been attributed to his dedication to DDP Yoga, a program developed by former WWE wrestler Diamond Dallas Page.
The Comeback Fight: A Struggle in the Ring
After a long hiatus from the ring, Butterbean returned to combat sports last weekend in Las Vegas.
His opponent? Wrestling legend Minoru Suzuki.
Fans were left concerned as they watched the once-dominant fighter struggle physically during the match.
Although Suzuki, clearly a seasoned professional, appeared to take it easy on Butterbean, the footage raised alarm among fans, who noticed the heavyweight wasn’t quite the fighter he once was.
Fan Reactions: Mixed Emotions and Worries
The reaction on social media was swift, with many fans expressing concern.
“What the hell is going on?” posted one user.
Another questioned, “Why was Butterbean wrestling?” A third fan even joked with a reference to a Johnny Knoxville quote from Jackass, asking, “Is Butterbean ok?”
Talks of a Boxing Comeback: Jake Paul and Brock Lesnar Challenges
Butterbean’s return to the ring isn’t just limited to wrestling.
In 2022, he sparked intrigue when he revealed he was considering a boxing comeback.
He even called out YouTube sensation Jake Paul, saying, “I’m at fight weight.
You’ll have to listen to my podcast to find out exactly how much weight I’ve lost, but I haven’t weighed this in over 20 years.
That’ll give you an idea.” The former champ went on to challenge Paul, saying, “Let’s get it on, me and you, Jake Paul.”
In early 2025, Butterbean set his sights even higher, challenging UFC and WWE star Brock Lesnar to a boxing match.
Lesnar, known for his championships across WWE, UFC, and NCAA, is regarded as one of the toughest athletes in combat sports.
Butterbean boldly declared, “I would love to fight Brock Lesnar in a boxing match.
He runs his mouth, he’s a big guy, it would be a great fight and something that people would want to see.”
A Bold Vision for the Future
The heavyweight icon isn’t backing down. “It’s going to be a real fight, not just a money grab,” he stated.
“I don’t want an exhibition, I want a real fight.”
Butterbean even mentioned a deal with Lucky Energy, an energy drink company, which he believes will help make the fight with Lesnar a reality.
As the boxing world watches with bated breath, only time will tell whether Butterbean’s bold challenges to Jake Paul and Brock Lesnar will come to fruition.
For now, fans can’t help but worry about the toll his comeback is taking on his health and whether the legend of Butterbean is ready to make a return to the top.