Boxing Legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. Announces Comeback After Tyson Exhibition

Mayweather signs exclusive deal for summer bout, raising questions about his motivations

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:50am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a boxing match between two figures, their forms broken down into geometric shapes and planes of vibrant colors, representing the complex motivations behind Mayweather's return to the ring.Mayweather's surprise comeback sparks speculation about his motivations, as the boxing legend prepares to face off against Tyson and an unnamed opponent.Chicago Today

In a surprise announcement, boxing icon Floyd 'Money' Mayweather is reversing his retirement and making a full-fledged comeback to professional boxing. This news comes on the heels of his highly anticipated exhibition match against Mike Tyson, with Mayweather signing an exclusive deal for a summer bout against an unnamed opponent.

Why it matters

Mayweather's return to the ring, after nearly a decade of retirement, has sparked speculation about his true motivations. Is this a genuine desire to reclaim his spot atop the boxing world, or is it a strategic move to settle legal disputes and recoup lost earnings?

The details

The 48-year-old Mayweather, who retired in 2017 with a perfect 50-0 record, has signed an exclusive agreement with CSI Sports/Fight Sports, the same group promoting his exhibition with Tyson. This deal includes a summer bout against an unnamed opponent, promising to break records in attendance, broadcast reach, and revenue.

  • Mayweather's upcoming exhibition match against Mike Tyson is still awaiting its official date and venue.
  • Mayweather's summer bout against an unnamed opponent is scheduled to take place after the Tyson exhibition.

The players

Floyd Mayweather Jr.

A legendary boxer with a 50-0 professional record, considered one of the all-time greats of the sport.

Mike Tyson

A former heavyweight champion, now 59 years old, who is set to face Mayweather in an upcoming exhibition match.

CSI Sports/Fight Sports

The group promoting both Mayweather's exhibition match against Tyson and his upcoming summer bout.

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What they’re saying

“My confidence is at an all-time high. I can still draw crowds, break records, and make a lot of money.”

— Floyd Mayweather Jr.

What’s next

The judge in Mayweather's lawsuit against Showtime Networks will decide on the case in the coming weeks, which could impact the boxer's motivations for this comeback.

The takeaway

Mayweather's return to boxing raises questions about his true intentions, whether it's a genuine passion for the sport or a strategic move to settle legal disputes and recoup lost earnings. The upcoming exhibition with Tyson and Mayweather's summer bout will shed light on the reasons behind this unexpected comeback.