Floyd Mayweather Announces Shocking Ring Return with Blockbuster Fights
Former world champion Floyd Mayweather Jr has stunned the boxing world by declaring a surprise fourth comeback to the sport. The undefeated legend unveiled plans that will commence with an exhibition bout against heavyweight icon Mike Tyson, before culminating in a highly anticipated professional rematch with longtime rival Manny Pacquiao later this year.
Historic Pacquiao Rematch Set for September at The Sphere
The rivals are scheduled to meet again on September 19 at the innovative Sphere venue in Las Vegas. This clash will occur exactly eleven years after their long-awaited 2015 showdown, famously dubbed the 'Fight of the Century,' where Mayweather secured a unanimous-decision victory. Pacquiao, now 47 years old, returned to competitive action in July 2025, fighting Mario Barrios to a majority draw for the WBC welterweight title. The Filipino superstar insists his comeback is fueled by an unwavering desire to reclaim world championship status.
Mayweather Confident Despite Financial Questions
Mayweather, meanwhile, asserts he 'still possesses what it takes to set more records,' even as questions swirl regarding his financial standing. A recent investigative report by Business Insider suggested Mayweather's widely publicised fortune might be overstated. The publication cited numerous liens, outstanding debts, property foreclosures, and heavily leveraged assets, including his extensive real estate portfolio and private jet.
A Glimpse Inside Mayweather's Lavish Las Vegas Lifestyle
In 2024, an exclusive glimpse into Mayweather's orbit revealed a whirlwind casino evening defined by luxury excess, astonishing generosity, and one unexpectedly frugal moment. Invited for a night out on the Las Vegas Strip, the experience began at Eight Lounge, a chic cigar spot, where Mayweather arrived in a blacked-out SUV wearing a £2,000 Gucci jacket and a gleaming Rolex. He was greeted by models holding sparklers and a glowing sign bearing his name as fans clamoured for photographs.
'I do appreciate the finer things in life,' Mayweather remarked when questioned about his opulent tastes. 'I enjoy my cars and my watches, but money doesn't make me; I make money. I don't just keep all the money either. I give back to the less fortunate. My mother wants for nothing, my loved ones want for nothing. My team lives a very good life. They travel the world and stay at five-star hotels. But the most important thing is we are happy. I was happy before I made money. With or without money, I am a happy person.'
Business Ventures and Personal Reflections
A fixture on the Vegas Strip with his 7,000-square-foot gentleman's club and top-tier boxing gym, Mayweather personally took charge behind the bar, crafting an Old Fashioned cocktail with his own Good Money Whiskey. This brand is now available in ten states, including Nevada, California, and Florida. 'It's just like boxing,' he said confidently. 'I had the best team, so I got the best results. I've got the best team working on my brands, too.'
Reflecting on his legendary career, Mayweather shared poignant insights. 'The real highlight of my career is that I am still able to communicate clearly, read, write, spend time with my children, and travel. I still have all my faculties. That's the part about my career I am most pleased with. Not everyone gets that luxury, and I've seen it firsthand,' he stated, alluding to the neurological damage suffered by his father and uncle.
Complex Family Dynamics and Formative Training
Mayweather's relationship with his father, Floyd Mayweather Sr., has been complex yet pivotal. 'My dad was my inspiration growing up. Without my dad, I wouldn't have any of this. Without my dad, I wouldn't have the crazy real estate portfolio I have. My dad is my driving force; my dad is everything to me,' he expressed, despite past public disagreements. His childhood involved rigorous training from age seven, including running five miles daily in combat boots and chopping wood, instilling a relentless work ethic.
High-Stakes Casino Scene and Extraordinary Generosity
The evening progressed to the high-roller casino area, where players casually wagered $500,000 per round on craps tables. Comedian Eddie Griffin from Malcolm & Eddie flitted around, cracking jokes before joining the action. While Mayweather avoided splurging at the tables, he displayed remarkable generosity, instantly tipping waitresses $500 each when bills slipped from his pocket, ensuring everyone felt valued.
Unmatched Boxing IQ and Personal Losses
Discussing his unparalleled skills, Mayweather asserted, 'There will never be another boxer like me because my IQ was just on another level. I could make adjustments that other people wouldn't be able to do.' He also acknowledged profound personal defeats beyond the ring, including the loss of his uncle, grandmother, long-time housekeeper, the mother of his children, and his best friend. 'Everything you go through in life is an experience you can grow from. I just try to use those experiences to become stronger every day,' he reflected.
Exhibition Fights and Record-Breaking Earnings
Even in retirement, Mayweather maintains his connection to boxing through exhibition bouts against figures like Deji Olatunji, Tenshin Nasukawa, and Logan Paul. His 2017 clash with MMA star Conor McGregor shattered records, generating 6.5 million pay-per-view buys and earning him more in one night than Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and LeBron James combined that year. 'People have such a problem with my exhibitions. Jeff Bezos is well off but he's still working. Warren Buffett is probably in his 90s now and he's still working. So, it's okay for me to work,' Mayweather argued, noting he currently has offers up to $300 million on his phone.
A Surprising Moment of Frugality
In a hilariously human conclusion to the extravagant night, Mayweather visited a local doughnut shop. After ordering two boxes, he was stunned to learn the total was $90. Pulling out a thick wad of cash, he paused dramatically, spread the bills across his hands, and quipped, 'I've got the money, I just don't want to spend it!' before finally paying and taking the doughnuts.
Mayweather's immediate return involves a rematch against John Gotti III this summer, following their chaotic first encounter in June 2023. His global brand, Good Money, produces premium champagne and whisky, available at major retailers like Total Wine, Specs, Lee's Liquors, and Walmart, cementing his legacy both inside and outside the ring.
