Floyd Mayweather Announces Boxing Return at 48, Eyes Tyson Fight & Pro Bout

At 48 years old, American boxing legend Floyd Mayweather has announced his intention to return to professional boxing. Undefeated in 50 bouts, “Money” Mayweather plans an exhibition match against Mike Tyson in the spring of 2026, followed by an official professional fight, marking the end of a retirement that began in 2017.

A Return to the Ring

The announcement, made on Friday, February 20th, came via a statement from CSI Sports and FIGHT SPORTS. Mayweather stated, “I still have the ability to reach new records in boxing.” This return comes after a career that began in October 1996, during which he secured world championships across five weight classes: super-plumes, lightweights, super-lightweights, welters, and super-welters.

Did You Know? Floyd Mayweather Jr. Was named “best fighter of the 21st century” by The Ring Magazine earlier this year.

Mayweather’s last professional fight was in August 2017 at Las Vegas against Conor McGregor, a former MMA star. Prior to that, he had already come out of retirement for the bout, which proved historically lucrative. Since 2017, Mayweather has participated in several exhibition matches in locations including Miami, Mexico, and Japan.

The Tyson Match and Beyond

Mayweather announced in September 2025 his intention to face compatriot Mike Tyson in an exhibition match scheduled for the spring of 2026. The location and specific date of this event have not yet been revealed. Mayweather believes that both this exhibition and the subsequent professional fight will generate significant interest, a large international audience, and substantial revenue, exceeding his previous fights.

Expert Insight: Mayweather’s decision to return, even at 48 and after a successful career, reflects a broader trend of veteran athletes seeking further competition and financial opportunities. The exhibition match against Tyson is likely a strategic move to gauge public interest and potentially set the stage for a more significant professional comeback.

Mike Tyson, who will turn 60 in June, returned to the ring in November 2024, but was defeated by YouTuber Jake Paul. This return echoes that of Mayweather’s former rival, Manny Pacquiao, who also came back to professional boxing at age 46 in July, resulting in a draw against Mario Barrios. Mayweather previously defeated Pacquiao in May 2015.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Floyd Mayweather last fight professionally?

Floyd Mayweather’s last professional fight was in August 2017 against Conor McGregor in Las Vegas.

Who will Floyd Mayweather fight in the spring of 2026?

Floyd Mayweather has announced he will participate in an exhibition match against Mike Tyson in the spring of 2026.

Has Mayweather retired before?

Yes, Mayweather had previously retired in 2017, but came out of retirement to fight Conor McGregor.

What impact will Mayweather’s return have on the boxing landscape remains to be seen, but it is certain to draw considerable attention from fans and analysts alike.