The selection of the Democratic Republic of Congo for this event carries historical weight, as the nation famously hosted the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" in 1974. That legendary bout featured Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, becoming one of boxing's most symbolic encounters. The choice of location aims to evoke that past glory.

This exhibition match, reportedly agreed upon last September, features two boxing legends long retired. Despite their enduring appeal, many fans express skepticism about the fight's attractiveness. With a combined age of 108 at the time of the bout, a significant physique difference, and its exhibition nature rather than a real contest, questions about its competitive integrity arise.

Former UFC champion Daniel Cormier voiced criticism, particularly regarding the fighters being past their prime. "My biggest question is always how do fighters explain this fight to the public?", Cormier stated. "It won't be a real fight, just an exhibition. So how much should we believe in the actual level of competition in this exhibition?"

Speaking last September, Tyson acknowledged the unexpected nature of the event: "This is a fight the world and I didn't think would happen. Boxing is entering an unpredictable era, and this match is no different." Mayweather echoed this sentiment, asserting, "I've competed for 30 years and no opponent has ever tarnished my legacy. If I do something, it must be a big, iconic event."

Mike Tyson (left) is expected to fight Floyd Mayweather (right) on 25/4/2026. Photo: TMZ

Mayweather is widely regarded as the embodiment of perfection in modern boxing. The undefeated American boasts a 50-0 professional record, with 27 knockout victories across light, middle, and welterweight divisions. His amateur career included a featherweight bronze medal at the 1996 Olympics, three Golden Gloves titles, and a national amateur boxing championship.

Since his last official bout against UFC star Conor McGregor in August 2017, Mayweather has frequently participated in exhibition matches. A notable appearance was his fight against Logan Paul at Hard Rock Stadium in 2021.

Tyson holds the record as the youngest heavyweight boxer in history to win a world title, securing the WBC belt in late 1986 at 20 years old. His professional career spanned 50 wins, 44 by knockout, and 6 losses. Tyson retired in 2005 after losing three of his final four career fights.

Like Mayweather, Tyson has engaged in many exhibition fights post-retirement. In 2024, the former heavyweight champion faced disappointment with an easy loss to Jake Paul – Logan Paul's younger brother – at AT&T Stadium in Texas.

Compiled by Hong Duy