Former five-division World Champion Floyd Mayweather and former Undisputed Heavyweight Champion Mike Tyson have announced an exhibition bout set for spring 2026. The exact date and possible restrictions have not yet been disclosed, but both fighters confirmed the matchup on social media and gave their first comments.
Floyd Mayweather spoke about his legacy:
“I’ve been doing this for 30 years, and during all this time, there hasn’t been a single fighter who could tarnish my legacy. You already know that if I do something, it’s going to be big and legendary. I’m the best in boxing. This exhibition fight will give fans what they want.”
He also addressed his critics:
“I’m sure if I were in their position, I’d be upset too. I’d be mad at Mayweather. How the hell can someone get paid like this for 29 or 30 straight years? I’d be mad too. I’d hate Mayweather too. Keep hating. People only talk about winners. I’m a winner. So keep talking.”
Mike Tyson described it as part of a new era in boxing:
“When CSI approached me with the idea of fighting Floyd Mayweather, I thought: ‘No, that’s impossible.’ But Floyd agreed. This fight is something neither the world nor I could have imagined. Boxing has entered a new era of unpredictability, and this fight is as unpredictable as it gets.
I still can’t believe Floyd really wants to do this. It’s going to be bad for his health, but he wants it, so the contract is signed and the fight will happen!”
Organizers Richard and Craig Miele, co-founders of CSI Sports and Fight Sports, expressed their ambitions:
“Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather are two of the brightest figures in sports, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. They are 21st-century icons. Tyson vs Mayweather will shatter all TV, streaming, and economic records set by Mike Tyson in 2024.
We are preparing a massive promotional campaign with weekly premium content and global marketing reach. The event will take place at a world-class arena and will be presented to a global audience with new technological elements in the ring that will change the way boxing is presented and judged for years to come.”
Floyd Mayweather last fought professionally in 2017, stopping Conor McGregor, before moving on to eight exhibitions, including one against Logan Paul.
Mike Tyson had an exhibition with Roy Jones Jr. in 2020, which was scored a draw. In fall 2024, he officially ended retirement to face Jake Paul, losing by decision after eight two-minute rounds.
At the weigh-in before the Paul fight, Tyson came in at 103.6 kg, while Mayweather’s usual weight sits around 75 kg.
Photo: MMA Fighting, MARCA