Floyd Mayweather: Coming Out of Retirement | ESPN | Earnings

Floyd Mayweather Jr., the unbeaten boxing legend, has just announced one of the most significant comebacks in sports history — he’s officially coming out of retirement.

This decision has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, dominating headlines from ESPN to global sports outlets. In this comprehensive guide, we look at what Mayweather’s return means for his career, his earnings, what ESPN has reported, the potential fights on the horizon, and how this affects his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

1. Floyd Mayweather’s Retirement Journey: A Quick Timeline

Floyd Mayweather’s professional career is one of the most storied in boxing history. Known for his defensive brilliance, tactical intelligence, and unmatched record, Mayweather first retired from boxing in 2017 with a flawless 50-0 record after defeating UFC superstar Conor McGregor.

However, retirement for Mayweather has rarely meant stepping away from the sport entirely. Since 2017, he’s:

• Competed in multiple high-profile exhibition matches — including bouts against Logan Paul and John Gotti III.

• Teased comebacks repeatedly on social media and via press releases.

• Stayed enormously relevant in boxing circles.

Now, Mayweather has declared that a full professional return is officially underway — a decision confirmed by ESPN and multiple major outlets.

2. What ESPN Reports About the Comeback

According to ESPN, Floyd Mayweather Jr. plans to resume his professional boxing career after participating in a spring 2026 exhibition showdown with Mike Tyson.

Here are the key takeaways from ESPN’s coverage:

• Mayweather is ending his nine-year retirement.

• The comeback will occur after an exhibition fight with Mike Tyson, currently scheduled for spring 2026.

• He has signed a promotional deal with CSI Sports/Fight Sports, which will help manage his return.

• Mayweather believes he can continue to draw massive global audiences and revenue.

While details like his next professional opponent and exact dates are still pending confirmation, the announcement itself is historic — especially at the age of 49.

3. Mayweather’s Earnings: A Look at the Numbers

Mayweather’s name isn’t just famous — it’s one of the most lucrative in sports history.

Career Earnings Breakdown

Floyd Mayweather’s career earnings are staggering. Over the span of his professional career, he reportedly earned over $1 billion from fight purses, endorsements, and promotions.

Here’s a breakdown of some of his biggest paydays:

These figures only begin to scratch the surface of how lucrative Mayweather’s career has been. His fights consistently broke PPV records, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in history.

4. The ESPN Lawsuit and Financial Controversies

In early 2026, a major story emerged involving Mayweather’s fight earnings and a lawsuit he filed against Showtime.

Lawsuit Overview

According to ESPN, Floyd Mayweather is suing Showtime Networks Inc. and others, alleging that at least $340 million in earnings were withheld or misappropriated during his career.

This lawsuit centers on claims that Showtime and Mayweather’s former manager worked to conceal or divert funds that he believes he was owed.

The case underscores the complex world of boxing finances and contractual obligations — even for a fighter of Mayweather’s stature.

5. Why Mayweather Is Fighting Again

Mayweather’s decision to end retirement isn’t just about competition — it’s strategic:

Commercial Appeal

Mayweather knows how to sell fights. From Pacquiao to McGregor, his bouts generated record-breaking revenue and viewership.

Legacy Cementing

At 50-0 professionally, he retired unbeaten — a rare feat. But a comeback gives him the opportunity to add more chapters to his legacy.

Boxing’s Global Platform

Fighting again brings renewed attention to boxing, especially if he takes on modern stars or legends like Mike Tyson in exhibitions.

6. Who Could Be Next Opponent?

No official opponent has been confirmed for Mayweather’s first post-retirement professional fight. However, speculation runs rampant:

Manny Pacquiao Rematch

Talks have been reported about a potential rematch between the two legends, possibly streamed on platforms like Netflix — a move that could shatter revenue records again.

Other Big Names

Other possibilities include high-profile crossover matchups with younger stars or marquee exhibition-to-pro fights, depending on public demand and promotional deals.

7. What This Means for Boxing

Mayweather’s return will have ripple effects through the sport:

Increased Mainstream Attention

His star power alone guarantees global interest, sponsorships, and broadcasting deals.

Boxing Economics Boom

Mayweather fights have historically translated into massive pay-per-view buys — potentially reigniting the boxing business model.

Legacy Reinforcement

A successful comeback could further cement Mayweather’s status as one of boxing’s all-time greats.

8. FAQs About Mayweather’s Comeback

Is Floyd Mayweather officially coming out of retirement?

Yes — Mayweather has announced that he will end his retirement after an anniversary exhibition fight with Mike Tyson, with plans to resume his professional career.

When was Mayweather’s last professional fight?

Mayweather last fought professionally in 2017, defeating Conor McGregor to finish 50-0.

How much has Mayweather earned in his career?

Across his boxing career, Mayweather’s earnings have exceeded $1 billion, including massive payouts from high-profile matches.

Will Mayweather fight Manny Pacquiao again?

Talks about a rematch have been reported, especially considering both fighters returning to the ring. Nothing is officially confirmed yet.

Why is Mayweather returning at age 49?

Mayweather believes he still has the ability to set boxing records and generate enormous revenue from major events.

9. Final Thoughts

Floyd Mayweather’s decision to step back into professional boxing marks a monumental moment in combat sports. With his unmatched legacy, massive earning potential, and strategic promotional deals, fans and industry experts alike are watching closely to see what unfolds next.

Whether this return ends in historic victories or simply serves to elevate boxing’s global reach, one thing is certain – Mayweather’s comeback will be one of the most talked-about sports stories of the decade.