Former heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson and undefeated five-division champion Floyd Mayweather will meet in an exhibition match next year.
Tyson and Mayweather agree to exhibition fight
According to CSI Sports, the promotional company behind the event, the fight will take place in the spring of 2026 (Autumn in South Africa), though the exact venue and date are not yet confirmed.
The bout is scheduled for eight rounds and, like other exhibition matches, will not count towards either fighter’s professional record.
Tyson, who turns 60 next year, said he never thought this fight would be possible.
“This fight is something neither the world nor I ever thought would or could happen. Boxing has entered a new era of the unpredictable – and this fight is as unpredictable as it gets,” Tyson said.
He also hinted at concerns about Mayweather stepping into the ring with him:
“I still can’t believe Floyd wants to really do this. It’s going to be detrimental to his health, but he wants to do it, so it’s signed and it’s happening.”
Tyson recently returned to the ring in November 2024 against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul. That fight ended in a points loss for Tyson and drew criticism from fans who felt the bout lacked intensity.
Floyd Mayweather, who retired undefeated with a 50-0 record, said he sees the fight as another way to entertain fans and strengthen his legacy.
“I’ve been doing this for 30 years and there hasn’t been a single fighter that can tarnish my legacy,” Mayweather said.
“You already know that if I am going to do something, it’s going to be big and it’s going to be legendary. I’m the best in the business of boxing. This exhibition will give the fans what they want.”
Mayweather last fought professionally in 2017 when he defeated Conor McGregor. Since then, he has taken part in exhibition bouts but has not returned to competitive boxing.
Age, weight and health concerns
The announcement has raised questions because of the age and weight difference between the fighters. Tyson, who fought as a heavyweight, is almost 60 years old, while Mayweather, 48, spent his career in lighter weight classes.
Tyson also suffered a health scare in May 2024 due to a gastric ulcer, which delayed his fight with Jake Paul. Fans have expressed concern about whether the 8-round contest is safe for either boxer.
Despite these worries, promoters expect the fight to be a huge box-office draw, as it brings together two of the most famous names in boxing history.
CSI Sports has promised new in-ring technology for scoring and fan engagement during the fight. Further details about the venue and ticket sales will be released in the coming months.
For now, both Tyson and Mayweather have confirmed that the fight is signed and will happen in 2026.
