Floyd Mayweather Jr. Announces Return to Professional Boxing

Floyd Mayweather Jr. has declared his intention to come out of retirement and resume his professional boxing career following an exhibition match against Mike Tyson scheduled for spring 2026. This announcement comes just days before Mayweather's 49th birthday. He has signed an exclusive agreement with CSI Sports/Fight Sports to promote his upcoming events. Mayweather expressed confidence in his ability to generate significant revenue, stating, "I still have what it takes to set more records in the sport of boxing."

ESPNCBS Sports

Mayweather, who retired in 2017 with an undefeated record of 50-0 after defeating Conor McGregor, has participated in several exhibition matches since then, including bouts against Logan Paul and Mikuru Asakura. The planned exhibition with Tyson was confirmed last year, with reports suggesting it may take place on April 25 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, although no official confirmation of the date or broadcasting details has been provided.

ESPN

Floyd Mayweather Jr. is a prominent figure in boxing, known for his defensive prowess and business acumen. He retired with a perfect record and has since engaged in various exhibition matches, maintaining his presence in the sport. Mike Tyson, a former heavyweight champion, has also participated in exhibitions since his retirement in 2004, including a notable draw against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020. Both fighters, now in their late 40s, represent a unique matchup that has garnered significant public interest.

CBS Sports

Richard and Craig Miele, co-founders of CSI Sports/Fight Sports, emphasized their commitment to delivering high-profile boxing events, stating, "Signing Floyd Mayweather to un-retire after he captures another world-wide audience with his Mike Tyson match-up highlights our commitment to providing our global audience with the most high-profile fighters in the sport." They anticipate further announcements that will excite fans and contribute to the growth of boxing in 2026.

ESPNCBS Sports

While Mayweather's return has generated excitement, some critics question the viability of a professional comeback at his age, especially against younger competitors. Concerns have been raised about the physical demands of professional boxing and the implications of such high-profile matches on the sport's integrity.

ESPN

There are discrepancies regarding the specifics of the upcoming exhibition fight, particularly concerning the date and location. While reports suggest April 25 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, CSI Sports has not confirmed these details. Additionally, there is no information on the ruleset for the exhibition or Mayweather's subsequent professional opponent.

CBS Sports

• “I still have what it takes to set more records in the sport of boxing,” — Floyd Mayweather Jr.

ESPN

• “Signing Floyd Mayweather to un-retire after he captures another world-wide audience with his Mike Tyson match-up, highlights our commitment to providing our global audience with the most high-profile fighters in the sport,” — Richard and Craig Miele, CSI Sports/Fight Sports

ESPN

Mayweather's return to professional boxing marks a significant moment in the sport, as fans and analysts alike await further developments regarding his upcoming matches and the implications for the boxing landscape.

ESPN