Mike Tyson Exclusive: Boxing icon discusses Floyd Mayweather exhibition, Conor Benn, and his fighting journey.


Published on: May 4, 2026, 05:19h. 

Updated on: May 4, 2026, 05:19h.

  • Tyson expresses interest in potential Mayweather exhibition despite delays
  • Mentions family concerns after Jake Paul fight may influence future matches
  • Supports Conor Benn as potential contender, urges fighters to compete more frequently

Mike Tyson remains a force to be reckoned with at 59. Once dubbed the “baddest man on the planet” and a legendary knockout artist in heavyweight boxing, Tyson continues to step into the ring as his 60th birthday approaches. He’s just over a year past his last professional match against young boxing prodigy Jake Paul.

DALLAS, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 14: Mike Tyson at the weigh-in for LIVE on Netflix: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson at the Toyota Music Factory on November 14, 2024. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images for Netflix © 2024)

Although Tyson was defeated by Paul, he managed to go the full eight rounds with the younger fighter, proving that he maintains his fighting spirit.

Residing in Las Vegas since the ’90s, Tyson shows no signs of retiring, as a potential showdown with Floyd Mayweather Jr. looms on the horizon.

Although the originally scheduled date of April 25 has passed—reportedly due to IRS complications for Mayweather—Tyson remains optimistic about the possibility of facing the boxing icon.

“I can’t discuss too much, but it is quite intriguing,” Tyson shared with Casino.org during an exclusive interview. “I’m just thrilled to be in a condition that allows me to participate in this way.”

His match against Paul marked Tyson’s first professional outing since 2005, when he fought Kevin McBride. Following his initial retirement, Tyson participated in an exhibition with Roy Jones Jr. in 2020 and has noted that prepping for a fight now requires several months of dedicated training.

When inquired about potential opponents or his retirement timeline, Tyson refrains from setting a specific end date for his boxing career.

“I have no idea,” Tyson remarked. “I only think about it when someone presents me a paycheck. There are plenty of fighters I want to face.”

Jake Paul secured a dominant victory over the 58-year-old Tyson, raking in record betting numbers. Image/Getty

Tyson: Family Support is Crucial for Future Fights

Tyson, renowned as the most formidable boxer of the late ’80s and throughout the ’90s, achieved a remarkable record with his first 19 professional fights concluded by knockout, 12 of which were in the opening round. He became a household name and a prominent figure in sports.

Of course, Tyson has faced his share of setbacks, including the notorious ear-biting incident with Evander Holyfield and filing for bankruptcy in the early 2000s.

Nevertheless, Tyson has rebounded, emerging as a successful entrepreneur alongside his cannabis company, Carma HoldCo, branded as Tyson 2.0.

As for future fights, Tyson emphasizes that his family’s opinions weigh heavily on his decisions, contrasting with his mindset from earlier decades.

“This is something I must discuss with my family to keep it genuine,” Tyson stated. “I need to understand their willingness to endure the pressures. They didn’t support my last fight; they were concerned about the toll it took. They view this as a sport for the young. Therefore, I must carefully consider our decision moving forward.”

Tyson underscores that his family’s well-being is his priority.

“Happiness,” Tyson expressed. “My family’s happiness is paramount. Everyone deserves to improve their lives and uplift others. That realization has dawned on me—it’s all about giving back. Life is fleeting; how do I truly enjoy my time here?”

“Giving back is essential,” Tyson added. “In my youth, I thought such notions were trivial, but I’ve grown to understand their significance. I feel foolish for my previous attitudes.”

This marks a significant shift for Tyson, who candidly admits he struggled with fatherhood during his glory days.

“In the ’80s and ’90s, I lacked the know-how to raise a family,” Tyson confessed. “I tried to solve everything with money. My wife and I faced hardships together. I rarely spent quality time with my children and family. It drove me crazy. I’m now capable of that, but I initially found it overwhelming. I was accustomed to partying and boasting; my transition to family life almost drove me insane.”

Mike Tyson captured before the heavyweight match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 28, 2023. (Image: Justin Setterfield/Getty)

Tyson: Conor Benn is a Serious Contender

While Tyson prioritizes family over boxing in his current life, he remains an avid fan of the sport.

“Absolutely,” Tyson responded. “Mike Tyson isn’t bigger than boxing. No one is. Boxing is a passion I’ll follow until the day I die.”

When asked about boxers who remind him of his younger self, Tyson mentions several standout athletes.

“There are numerous exceptional fighters,” Tyson noted. “In any category, there’s David Benavidez, Tank (Gervonta Davis), Shakur Stevenson, and Keyshawn Davis—he’s a remarkable talent. The sport has incredible up-and-coming fighters.”

“Even the young fighter trying to prove himself, Conor Benn, has potential despite some criticism. He’s a contender, believe it or not. Yes, he talks a big game and makes people uncomfortable, but he shows up.”

Tyson emphasizes he doesn’t provide unsolicited advice to younger boxers, believing they already possess substantial knowledge.

“I see them and respect them,” Tyson stated. “I’m not here to lecture anyone. I regard them as peers, not subordinates. I want to embrace and support them, rather than teach them boxing techniques. They often have significantly more experience than I do.”

Tyson: Boxers Need More Fighting Opportunities

To elevate boxing’s popularity to its former heights, Tyson believes fighters must compete more frequently.

“You have to keep fighting,” Tyson asserted. “I fought 15 times in one year; now, many boxers opt for just two bouts annually. Staying active is key. The more fans see a fighter, the faster they build a following. Visibility is vital to cultivating a fanbase.”

Tyson insists top fighters should aim for at least three bouts each year.

“Three fights a year can be profitable,” Tyson said. “This isn’t a futile endeavor; you earn money and enjoy the thrill of competition. Boxing revolves around excitement and financial stability.”

When asked what advice he would offer to young athletes and aspiring entrepreneurs, Tyson emphasized the importance of self-worth and contribution.

“Have confidence in yourself, strive for excellence, and always be adaptable,” Tyson advised. “Create value; that’s vital. I am wealthy because I bring value, not just because of monetary wealth. I take pride in my value, as it is fundamental to success—many are financially well-off but lack true worth.”



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