Floyd Mayweather announces shock return to professional boxing at 48

Floyd Mayweather has sensationally announced he will return to professional boxing for the first time in nearly a decade, coming out of retirement for a fourth time to pursue what he claims will be more record-breaking achievements in the sport.

The 48-year-old American, who celebrates his 49th birthday on 24 February, revealed his intention to fight professionally again following his upcoming exhibition bout with Mike Tyson. No details of an opponent, date or location have been confirmed for the proposed professional contest.

Mayweather, who last fought professionally in 2017, is scheduled to face former undisputed world heavyweight champion Tyson, 59, in an exhibition match this spring, though the venue and date are yet to be finalised.

“I still have what it takes to set more records in the sport of boxing,” Mayweather said in a statement.

“From my upcoming Mike Tyson event to my next professional fight afterwards – no one will generate a bigger gate, have a larger global broadcast audience and generate more money with each event – than my events.”

The announcement marks the latest twist in an extraordinary career that has seen Mayweather win world titles across five weight classes. His last professional outing came nine years ago when he stopped mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor in the 10th round, securing his 50th professional victory and maintaining his undefeated record.

Mayweather has previously retired on multiple occasions – in 2007 (twice) and 2015 – and since his victory over McGregor, he has competed in various exhibition bouts. His most recent appearance was against John Gotti III in August 2024.

Throughout his illustrious career, Mayweather has headlined the three highest-grossing fights in boxing history against Manny Pacquiao, Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and Conor McGregor, establishing himself as the sport’s premier pay-per-view attraction.

The boxing world now awaits further details of who the veteran star will face in what would be his first professional contest since turning 40.