Floyd Mayweather’s proposed exhibition against Mike Tyson has been officially postponed, according to a major update from respected boxing journalist Dan Rafael. While fans were marking their calendars for a historic showdown in Congo on April 25, 2026, insiders confirm the date is “definitely” off.
The news has sent shockwaves through the combat sports world, raising questions about whether the legendary heavy-hitter and the undefeated defensive master will ever actually share a ring.
The “September” Factor: Mayweather’s Packed Schedule
The primary reason for the delay isn’t a lack of interest, but a crowded 2026 calendar for Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Floyd is preparing for a professional comeback against Manny Pacquiao on September 19 at the Sphere in Las Vegas—their first pro outing since the 2015 “Fight of the Century.”
With a June exhibition against Greek kickboxer Mike Zambidis also on the books, the window for a Tyson fight is narrowing. Insider Dan Rafael noted:
“It definitely won’t be that date. It will move to a later date & while it might be in Congo, no site is set.”
“Iron Mike” Strikes Back at Critics
Despite the postponement and ongoing health concerns—including a well-documented ulcer flare-up—Mike Tyson is refusing to back down. After his recent heavyweight clash with Jake Paul, many called for the 59-year-old legend to retire for good. But Tyson’s response to the Mayweather delay was vintage “Iron Mike.”
Speaking to TMZ Sports, Tyson silenced the doubters: “Yeah, it’s happening. Sh*t, yeah, it’s happening! You think I’d give that up?! I was minding my business! He challenged me.”
Tyson even joked about the aftermath of the fight, promising a celebration that matches the magnitude of the event: “We are going to party afterwards, baby! We’ll have a ball afterwards!”
Health Concerns vs. Physical Transformation
The biggest hurdle remains Tyson’s physical condition. Critics pointed to his fatigue in the Jake Paul fight as a warning sign. However, Tyson insists he has never felt better.
The Weight Cut: Tyson revealed he has dropped significant weight, pulling at his shirt to show a slimmer frame: “I feel incredible. I was an extra large, but we are a large now.”
The Ulcer Recovery: While the medical scares are real, Tyson’s camp suggests he is back to full training capacity.
The Rivalry: Tyson emphasized that the challenge came from Mayweather, and his pride as a warrior won’t allow him to decline.
What Happens Next?
With Mayweather focusing on Pacquiao in September, the window for the Tyson exhibition likely falls in late May or July. Anything later risks interfering with Floyd’s professional training camp. For fans, the delay is frustrating, but for the promoters, it’s about ensuring two of the biggest names in history are at their absolute best.
Conclusion: A Clash of Eras
The Mike Tyson vs. Floyd Mayweather fight is more than an exhibition; it’s a cultural event. It pits the raw, devastating power of the youngest heavyweight champion in history against the tactical genius of a man who has never been defeated.
While the April date is gone, the hype has only grown. Mike Tyson has made one thing very clear: he isn’t finished yet. As we wait for the final confirmation of the Congo site, the boxing world remains on edge. After all, when “Iron” meets “Money,” the stakes are always legendary.