Boxing legend Floyd “Money” Mayweather Jr. has officially confirmed he is ending his nine-year retirement to return to the professional ranks, following a high-profile exhibition schedule that includes a bout with Mike Tyson this spring.
The announcement, which has sent shockwaves through the sporting world, was punctuated on Monday, 23 February 2026, by the news that Mayweather will face his long-time rival Manny Pacquiao in a professional rematch this September. The bout is scheduled to take place at the Sphere in Las Vegas and will be broadcast globally via Netflix.
The Return of “Money”
Mayweather, who turns 49 tomorrow (24 February), currently holds a perfect professional record of 50-0 (27 KOs). His last official professional fight occurred in 2017 when he defeated Conor McGregor via TKO. While he has remained active in the exhibition circuit, this move marks his formal return to competitive, sanctioned boxing where his undefeated legacy will once again be at stake.
Upcoming Schedule: Congo to Las Vegas
Before the professional showdown with Pacquiao, Mayweather is set to travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo for an exhibition match against former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. That event is slated for 25 April 2026. Mayweather has clarified that while the Tyson fight is an exhibition, it serves as the launchpad for a multi-fight professional campaign throughout the summer and autumn.
The September rematch against Pacquiao comes over a decade after their initial “Fight of the Century” in 2015. Despite both fighters being in their late 40s, the announcement has already generated massive commercial interest, particularly with the unique venue choice of the Sphere.
Career Statistics & Legacy
Mayweather’s career is defined by his defensive mastery and financial dominance. Key facts of his legendary run include:
- Professional Record: 50-0-0 (27 KOs).
- World Titles: 15 major world championships across five weight classes.
- Amateur Pedigree: 84-6 record with an Olympic bronze medal (1996).
- Longevity: A professional career spanning from 1996 to 2017, now resuming in 2026.
Public reaction to the unretirement has been mixed. While fans are eager to see the technical wizardry of Mayweather back in a professional ring, critics and peers—including 50 Cent and Oscar De La Hoya—have questioned the necessity of the return at age 49. Regardless of the skepticism, the “Money” era appears far from over as the boxing world prepares for a historic 2026 season.