Boxing: Holyfield announces surprise return at 57
Evander Holyfield has confirmed he is making a stunning return to boxing in a series of exhibition fights for charity.
The 57-year-old, who remains the only boxer in history to win the undisputed championship in two weight classes, enjoyed a glittering career in the sport, with notable wins including Mike Tyson, George Foreman and John Ruiz.
And the former cruiserweight and heavyweight champion will officially return to the ring in the coming months after confirming the unexpected news on social media.
Alongside a video of him in training, Holyfield also revealed he will be raising money for charity campaign Unite 4 Our Fight.
We all grow up with a dream to become who we are meant to be, and I want to help underprivileged children have the same chance. Please help us provide kids with access to free education & assistance for our first responders: https://t.co/Pkw6Xs1fKS #Unite4OurFight pic.twitter.com/nolGXYgTIk
— Evander Holyfield (@holyfield) April 24, 2020
“Are you ready? The moment you’ve all been waiting for. The Champ is back!” he wrote.
“I’d like to announce that I will be making a comeback to the ring. I will be fighting in exhibition matches for a great cause: #Unite4OurFight. Learn more: http://unite4ourfight.org”
Are you ready? The moment you've all been waiting for…
The Champ is back! 🥊 I'd like to announce that I will be making a comeback to the ring. I will be fighting in exhibition matches for a great cause: #Unite4OurFight. Learn more: https://t.co/dfSo0HvV2O pic.twitter.com/8PfrzalHty— Evander Holyfield (@holyfield) May 6, 2020
Holyfield’s return to the ring has, by chance, coincided with the comeback of Mike Tyson, which has fuelled speculation of a potential trilogy fight.
Evander Holyfield's manager Chester Johnson tells me, "There is no date, venue or opponent locked in just yet," when asked if the plan was for another Holyfield-Tyson bout. "We are fielding through opportunities right now."
— Ryan Songalia (@ryansongalia) May 7, 2020
‘Iron Mike’ plans to take part in four round exhibition fights for charity, and is currently training with cardio and weight sessions, while also working on boxing pads.
Coach Rafael Cordeiro (@kings_mma) told @arielhelwani what it's like to hold mitts for @MikeTyson 😅 pic.twitter.com/9MDRfgWZQH
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) May 4, 2020
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“I’ve been working out, I’ve been trying to get in the ring, I think I’m going to box some exhibitions and get in shape.” he told rapper T.I on Instagram Live.
“I want to go to the gym and get in shape to be able to box three or four-round exhibitions for some charities and stuff.”