LAS VEGAS – Undefeated boxing icon Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr. announced on Friday, February 20, 2026, that he is coming out of professional retirement. The legend, who turns 49 this week, has signed an exclusive promotional agreement with CSI Sports/FIGHT SPORTS to return to sanctioned competition following a nine-year hiatus.
Mayweather (50-0, 27 KOs) officially hung up his gloves after defeating Conor McGregor in 2017. While he has remained active through high-profile exhibitions, this move marks his return to the professional ranks where his unblemished record will once again be on the line.
The Road to the Ring: Tyson and Beyond
Before his first professional bout this summer, Mayweather is slated for a massive exhibition event:
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“Legend vs. Legend” in Congo: Mayweather is scheduled to face 59-year-old heavyweight icon Mike Tyson on April 25, 2026. Reports indicate the bout is tentatively planned for the Democratic Republic of Congo, home of the historic “Rumble in the Jungle.”
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Pro Return: Following the Tyson spectacle, Mayweather’s first official professional fight is expected in Summer 2026 against a yet-to-be-named opponent.
“I still have what it takes to set more records in the sport of boxing,” Mayweather said in an official statement. “From my upcoming Mike Tyson event to my next professional fight afterwards—no one will generate a bigger gate or a larger global audience than my events.”
Legal Battles and Financial Disputes
The comeback announcement coincides with significant legal turbulence for the Mayweather brand. The boxer recently filed a $340 million lawsuit against Showtime Networks and its former sports president, Stephen Espinoza.
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The Allegations: Mayweather claims he is owed hundreds of millions in misappropriated earnings from his career, alleging that his former advisor, Al Haymon, was involved in a fraudulent scheme to divert funds.
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Other Litigation: The fighter is also reportedly navigating disputes over unpaid luxury apartment rent in Manhattan and unpaid balances with prominent jewelers.
Rivalry Resurrected?
Mayweather’s return mirrors that of his long-time rival, Manny Pacquiao. The 47-year-old Filipino legend is currently on his own comeback trail and is scheduled to face Ruslan Provodnikov in a 10-round exhibition in Las Vegas on April 18, 2026. The simultaneous returns of the two icons have immediately fueled global speculation regarding a potential professional rematch later this year.
