Boxing legend Mike Tyson will make another return to the ring to face boxing star Floyd Mayweather.
The two icons will square off in an exhibition match in 2026. While the exact time and date are yet to be announced, both fighters have already signed a deal with CSI Sports/FIGHT Sports to promote the matchup. Tyson admitted he was shocked when approached about the bout.
“When CSI came to me about stepping in the ring with Floyd Mayweather, I thought, ‘No way this happens,’” Tyson said in a statement. “But Floyd said yes. This fight is something neither the world nor I ever thought would or could happen. However, boxing has entered a new era of the unpredictable, and this fight is as unpredictable as it gets.
“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!”
Mayweather also shared his reaction after being contacted by the promoters.
“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 has been away from the professional ring for years, but he hasn’t shied away from exhibition bouts. The 48-year-old retired from professional boxing after defeating UFC star Conor McGregor in a historic showdown.
Since then, he has competed in eight exhibition matches, three of which were against influencers-turned-fighters. In his last appearance, he fought John Gotti III in August 2024, but the bout ended in a no-contest. Mayweather retired with an unbeaten professional record of 50-0, winning 15 major championship belts across five weight classes from super featherweight to light middleweight.
Tyson, on the other hand, dominated the heavyweight division in the late 1980s and is remembered as one of boxing’s most feared punchers. The former undisputed heavyweight champion fought Jake Paul in his first professional fight in 20 years but lost via unanimous decision. Tyson reigned as heavyweight champion from 1987 to 1990, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats.
The upcoming exhibition already has fans buzzing, with analysts, including former UFC champion Daniel Cormier, noting how crossover events continue to redefine combat sports.
