WBO super-lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez has spoken out ahead of the controversial exhibition clash between Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather.
It was revealed on social media last month that former undisputed heavyweight champion Tyson will face Mayweather in an exhibition bout in 2026, with an official announcement set to be made in due course.
Tyson, who is approaching his 60th birthday, made a sensational comeback to the sport after a 20-year hiatus last November, suffering a unanimous decision defeat to YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Arlington, Texas.
As for Mayweather, the 48-year-old five division world champion announced his retirement from the professional side of the sport back in 2017, although he has had a number of exhibition contests since then, facing the likes of Logan Paul, Aaron Chalmers and Tenshin Nasukawa.
The shock match-up between ‘Iron Mike’ and Mayweather has got the entire boxing world talking, and now 140lb star Lopez has shared his thoughts.
Speaking to the media, Lopez admitted that whilst he is ‘glad’ Mayweather and Tyson are set to share the ring with each other, he urges the former heavyweight king not to hurt Mayweather ‘too much’.
“My thoughts? I love both guys, I’m glad I get to see them fight. But Tyson, don’t hurt champ too much, don’t hurt him too much.”
Tyson originally confirmed that he would be stepping back into retirement following his clash with Paul last year, but the 59-year-old has made a U-turn on this decision as he prepares to face countryman Mayweather, who last fought in an exhibition against John Gotti III in August 2024.
