Floyd Mayweather confirms professional boxing return after Tyson fight
Floyd Mayweather Jr has announced plans to end his retirement and resume his professional boxing career following a scheduled exhibition bout against Mike Tyson.
The undefeated five-division world champion has signed an exclusive promotional agreement with CSI Sports just days before his 49th birthday.
Mayweather insists he retains the ability to set new benchmarks in the sport despite not fighting professionally since 2017.
“I still have what it takes to set more records in the sport of boxing,” Mayweather said.
“From my upcoming Mike Tyson event to my next professional fight afterwards, no one will generate a bigger gate or have a larger global broadcast audience.”
Undefeated record on the line
The American originally walked away from professional competition at the age of 40 following a stoppage victory over MMA star Conor McGregor.
That win extended his perfect record to 50-0, with 27 victories coming by way of knockout.
Since that lucrative crossover event, he has participated solely in exhibition contests against opponents such as Logan Paul and John Gotti III.
Tyson exhibition details
Before resuming his pro career, the veteran is scheduled to face heavyweight icon Mike Tyson in an exhibition match in spring 2026.
Reports suggest the event could take place in the Democratic Republic of Congo on 25 April, though specific broadcast details remain unconfirmed.
CSI Sports co-founders Richard and Craig Miele stated the deal highlights a commitment to providing the “most high-profile fighters in the sport”.
“Floyd will once again continue to dominate boxing with the biggest audience and highest gross events of all time,” the promoters said in a statement.
Legal disputes and future rivals
News of the comeback arrives as Mayweather pursues a multi-million dollar lawsuit against former broadcast partner Showtime.
The fighter claims he is owed at least $340m (£268m) in unpaid earnings from career purses reportedly totalling over $1.2bn.
His return to the professional ranks has also fuelled speculation regarding a potential rematch with Manny Pacquiao.
The Filipino great recently returned to professional boxing, potentially opening the door for a sequel to their high-grossing 2015 encounter.