"I've been doing this for 30 years, and no one has tarnished my legacy," Mayweather said of his decision. "If I step into the ring, it has to be a big, legendary event. This fight will give the fans what they want," he added.
The match will be organized by CSI Sports/Fight Sports, likely in a massive stadium with a capacity of over 80,000 spectators, such as AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
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Mike Tyson (left) will face Floyd Mayweather (right) in early 2026. Photo: TMZ |
Mike Tyson (left) will face Floyd Mayweather (right) in early 2026. Photo: TMZ
Mike Tyson expressed surprise that Mayweather agreed to the bout. "When CSI approached me, I thought Mayweather would never agree," Tyson said. "But then he said yes. Before that, no one thought this fight could happen. I still can't believe Mayweather actually wants to do this. Mayweather's health will be at risk, but he signed, and the fight will happen."
Tyson will turn 60 in 6/2026. He was a symbol of power and destruction in the 1980s and 1990s, with 45 wins in his first 46 fights. Tyson is also considered one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time.
Tyson's most recent fight took place in 11/2024, when he returned after nearly two decades to face YouTuber Jake Paul at AT&T Stadium. Despite losing by decision, the fight set a record with 65 million online views on Netflix, becoming the most-watched sporting event in the platform's history.
Mayweather, 48, is the embodiment of perfection in the modern era of boxing. "The Undefeated" boasts a 50-0 professional record, including 27 knockout victories across lightweight, welterweight, and light middleweight classes.
After defeating MMA fighter Conor McGregor in the boxing ring in 2017, Mayweather officially retired but has continually appeared in exhibition matches, such as against Logan Paul and John Gotti. However, Mayweather's acceptance to fight a much heavier opponent, literally, has surprised fans.
Tyson weighed 103 kg when he faced Jake Paul, while Mayweather reached only 73 kg in his most recent exhibition match. The 40 kg difference raises safety concerns but also generates immense interest. On one side is the knockout machine who once instilled fear in the heaviest weight class. On the other is the defensive genius who remained undefeated throughout his career.
According to CSI Sports, the Tyson-Mayweather event will be promoted globally, with a weekly storytelling campaign and new technology in presentation and scoring. "This fight will break all records that Tyson set with Jake Paul in 2024," said CSI co-founder Richard Miele.
Compiled by Hoang An
