Floyd Mayweather Announces Professional Boxing Comeback Following Mike Tyson Exhibition
Boxing icon Floyd Mayweather Jr. has officially declared his return to professional boxing, ending his retirement that began in 2017. The announcement comes ahead of his scheduled exhibition match against fellow legend Mike Tyson, signaling a major shift in the sport's landscape.
Record-Breaking Ambitions and Financial Confidence
In a statement provided to AFP, the 48-year-old former multi-weight world champion expressed unwavering confidence in his abilities. "I still have what it takes to set more records in the sport of boxing," Mayweather asserted. He further emphasized his commercial appeal, stating, "From my upcoming Mike Tyson event to my next professional fight afterwards, no one will generate a bigger gate, have a larger global broadcast audience and generate more money with each event, then my events."
Tentative Summer Return and Exhibition Schedule
Mayweather confirmed that his first professional bout since 2017 is tentatively planned for this summer, though his opponent remains undisclosed. Additional details are anticipated "in the coming weeks" according to the official statement. Meanwhile, boxing publication Ring Magazine reports that Mayweather's exhibition fight with Tyson is scheduled for April 25 in the Democratic Republic of Congo, although neither the date nor venue has received official confirmation.
Legacy of Success and Recent Activity
Retiring with an impeccable 50-0 record in 2017 after defeating former UFC champion Conor McGregor in a globally watched crossover event, Mayweather has maintained visibility through exhibition contests. His post-retirement activities include a victory over John Gotti III in Mexico during August 2024, along with matches against reality television personalities and YouTube fighters. Nicknamed "Money," Mayweather once held the title of world's highest-paid athlete, earning $300 million in 2015 according to Forbes, and was widely regarded as boxing's pound-for-pound king during his peak.
Promotional Partnership and Opponent Context
To facilitate his professional comeback, Mayweather has entered an exclusive agreement with promoter CSI Sports/Fight Sports, which will follow the Tyson exhibition. Tyson, aged 59, last competed in November 2024 in Texas, suffering a decisive loss to YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a Netflix-backed event that attracted approximately 70,000 live spectators and millions of viewers worldwide.
Controversial Career and Anticipated Impact
Mayweather's career has been characterized by both athletic excellence and controversy. While celebrated for his exceptional fitness, technical prowess, and strategic intelligence in the ring, he has faced criticism for his defensive fighting style and past legal issues. His return to professional competition is expected to capture significant global attention, potentially reshaping boxing's commercial and competitive dynamics.
