"Heavyweight criticizes Mike Tyson vs Floyd Mayweather fight, calling it inappropriate following the surprising event announcement"
In an exciting turn of events, boxing legends Floyd Mayweather and Mike Tyson have announced they will square off in an exhibition match in 2026. The announcement, shared on Tyson's Instagram, has sent waves through the boxing community.
Mayweather, a 48-year-old boxing icon with a professional record of 50-0, expressed his enthusiasm for the exhibition, stating it would give fans what they want and reaffirm his status as the best in the business of boxing. The nature of the bout means that the result won't count on his record, as exhibition fights are not regarded as official contests.
Gervonta Davis, a rising star in the boxing world, will also be participating in an exhibition bout against YouTube-turned-boxer Paul in November. This trend of exhibition fights allows fighters in different weight classes to meet in the ring, providing an opportunity for unique matchups.
Exhibition fights offer a platform for fighters to showcase their skills without the usual pressures of winning. They provide a space for veterans like Tyson and Mayweather to entertain fans without the risk of damaging their professional records. Clarke, an Olympic bronze medallist boxer, discussed the two legends sharing the ring on talkSPORT Breakfast. However, he described the upcoming match as "pure exhibition" and "pantomime stuff."
The upcoming exhibition match between Tyson and Mayweather is not a sanctioned bout, which means it will not be overseen by a boxing governing body. This is unlike Tyson's last exhibition bout, an unofficial split draw with Roy Jones Jr. in 2020. Tyson's last sanctioned bout was against Jake Paul in 2024, which he lost via unanimous decision, extending his professional record to 50-8.
The exact date and venue for the Tyson-Mayweather exhibition match have yet to be confirmed. However, it's expected to be a multi-million payday for both men, making it one of the most highly anticipated events in boxing history.
Despite the excitement, it's important to remember that this is not a traditional boxing match. Clarke emphasised that the match is not boxing but rather a spectacle. As fans eagerly await more details, it's clear that the boxing world is in for an unforgettable event in 2026.
