Mike Tyson has stunned the boxing world by announcing the date and location for his unexpected exhibition clash with Floyd Mayweather Jr — a bout he says will happen in Africa in March.
The news comes after September’s reveal that the two iconic champions were in talks for a “clash of legends” expected early next year. Although no venue or final date had been confirmed, SunSport reported in October that both sides were still moving toward an exhibition deal.
Now Tyson, 59, has publicly stated that “Money” Mayweather will be his next opponent and that their long-rumoured meeting is set for March, on African soil. Speaking at An Experience with Mike Tyson event, the former undisputed heavyweight king told the crowd:
“Me? [My next fight is going to be] Floyd Mayweather. Can you believe that?
It’s going to be in March. And it’s going to be in Africa.”
Tyson last fought in November, when he faced Jake Paul in a heavily criticised performance, while Mayweather’s most recent outing came in August during his exhibition rematch against MMA fighter John Gotti III.
After Tyson’s revelation, social media lit up with mixed reactions.
One fan wrote: “Nobody cares, he sold out vs Jake.”
Another commented: “They’re gonna make an absurd amount of money.”
A third criticised the event bluntly: “WTF, this is so ridiculous — promoters squeezing money out of legends.”
Others, however, saw the potential cultural impact:
“Historic moment for African boxing! Tyson–Mayweather on the continent would spotlight its growing sports infrastructure and inspire a new generation.”
Tyson acknowledged the criticism surrounding the spectacle, especially given both fighters’ ages and exhibition history, but insisted the event will captivate global audiences.
“This is going to be incredible. We’re going to break all the records. It’s going to be one of the biggest events in the history of the sport.”
Tyson — one of boxing’s most explosive heavyweights — and Mayweather — the undefeated defensive genius and former five-division champion — have traded verbal shots for years, but have never shared a ring.
If confirmed, the event would mark one of the most surreal cross-era exhibitions in boxing history, bringing two icons from vastly different weight classes and fighting styles together for a global spectacle.
For now, fans await official confirmation — but Tyson’s announcement suggests that one of the most unlikely matchups in boxing lore may soon become reality.
