What has Mike Tyson said about his upcoming fight with Floyd Mayweather?

Mike Tyson expressed disbelief at the matchup, noting he never thought Floyd Mayweather would agree to fight him. He warned that the bout could be 'detrimental to his health' but acknowledged that it is indeed happening.

Why is Mike Tyson skeptical about fighting Floyd Mayweather?

Tyson was initially skeptical about the fight because of the significant weight difference between the two boxers, with Tyson weighing 220 lbs at his peak compared to Mayweather's maximum of 151 lbs during his career.

When is the fight between Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather scheduled?

The exhibition bout between Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather is scheduled for next year, although the exact date has yet to be announced.

What was Mike Tyson's last fight before agreeing to face Mayweather?

Mike Tyson's last fight was against Jake Paul in November 2024, where he lost by decision. This marked his return to the ring after retiring in 2005.

How much did Mike Tyson earn from his last fight?

Tyson reportedly earned $20 million from his fight against Jake Paul, after which he made headlines for purchasing a mansion for $13 million.

Mike Tyson vs Floyd Mayweather: Boxing Legends Agree to 2026 Exhibition Fight

In one of the most unexpected announcements in boxing history, Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather have officially agreed to face off in an exhibition match in 2026. Tyson, now 59, admitted he was shocked Mayweather accepted, warning that the bout could be “detrimental to his health.” The fight, which pits two of the sport’s most iconic but contrasting figures against each other, has already sparked huge debate across the boxing world.

Coming Soon pic.twitter.com/lSeyrR0BKO
— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) September 4, 2025

A Historic Matchup

The clash between Tyson and Mayweather represents more than just another exhibition—it’s the collision of two different eras and fighting styles. Tyson, the former heavyweight champion feared for his raw power and ferocity, stands in stark contrast to Mayweather, a defensive genius who retired undefeated and never weighed more than 151 lbs in his career.

The fight raises plenty of questions: Can Mayweather’s precision and movement stand up against Tyson’s size and power? And at Tyson’s age, is it safe for him to return to the ring once again?

Tyson’s Reaction: Shock and Warning

Speaking after the announcement, Tyson admitted even he didn’t believe Mayweather would go through with it. “When CSI came to me about stepping in the ring with Floyd Mayweather, I thought, ‘No way this happens,’ but Floyd said yes,” he revealed.

Despite his excitement, Tyson made a blunt prediction: “It’s going to be detrimental to his health, but he wants to do it, so it’s signed and it’s happening!” His words underline the very real risks that come with such a size mismatch, especially when both men are long past their professional primes.

What’s at Stake for Both Fighters?

For Tyson, this fight is another chance to extend his late-career comeback after facing Jake Paul in 2024. His return drew massive attention, and another bout against a legend like Mayweather could further cement his status as the biggest draw in exhibition boxing.

For Mayweather, it’s riskier. His pristine record and reputation for defensive mastery mean there’s more to lose if the fight doesn’t go to plan. Even though it’s technically “just” an exhibition, critics argue that stepping in against a heavyweight of Tyson’s calibre is a gamble that could overshadow his perfect legacy.

Money on the Line

Financially, the fight is expected to generate staggering figures. Tyson reportedly earned $20 million from his 2024 fight with Jake Paul, and this matchup has the potential to eclipse that, given the global intrigue. Mayweather, who has made hundreds of millions throughout his career, will no doubt see this as another blockbuster payday.

With both men set to cash in, the fight highlights the ongoing trend of exhibition bouts blurring the lines between sport and spectacle. But unlike YouTubers or celebrities stepping into the ring, this one carries genuine danger given the difference in weight and power.

What It Means for Boxing

Tyson vs Mayweather isn’t just an event—it’s a statement about where boxing is heading. Exhibition fights have become a cornerstone of modern combat sports, but the announcement of two legends fighting each other at such different stages of life raises questions about safety, legacy, and what the sport should represent.

Whether this fight turns out to be a spectacle or a serious contest, one thing is certain: fans around the world will be watching. In 2026, two icons from opposite ends of the boxing spectrum will finally share the same ring.

Key Details

Fight announcement: Mike Tyson vs Floyd Mayweather exhibition set for 2026.
Tyson’s warning: Tyson says the fight could be “detrimental” to Mayweather’s health.
Weight difference: Tyson fought at heavyweight (220 lbs), Mayweather at welterweight (151 lbs max).
Last fight: Tyson lost to Jake Paul by decision in 2024; Mayweather has remained unbeaten.
Financial stakes: Tyson earned $20m from his last exhibition, this fight expected to exceed that.

Frequently Asked Questions

What has Mike Tyson said about the fight?

Tyson admitted he didn’t expect Mayweather to agree and warned the fight could be dangerous for him due to the size difference.

Why is the fight surprising?

The two fighters come from completely different weight classes and eras. Tyson is a former heavyweight champion, while Mayweather never fought above 151 lbs.