Evander Holyfield Return Fight Set, Facing Same Opponent Mike Tyson Faced Before Retiring

Evander Holyfield is finally getting back in the ring although it won’t be against Mike Tyson.

Failing to seal any deal, the 58-year-old found an alternative opponent who ironically has some links to “The Baddest Man on the Planet.”

According to SI.com, Holyfield is set to face Kevin McBride on June 5 in an eight-round exhibition fight.

The clash will be one of the undercards for the title-defense of Teofimo Lopez against George Kambosos.

Considering that it was McBride who Tyson last fought before retiring, this bout could be very interesting.

To recall, the Tyson fight was one of McBride’s career-defining moments. The Irish pugilist won after the Brooklyn native quit on his stool at the end of Round 6.

Tyson informed the referee he could no longer continue in the fight that was held at the MCI Center in Washington D.C. He would, later on, reveal that his heart was no longer in the sport.

Hence, it makes a bit of sense for Holyfield even if both he and McBride are way past their prime.

A fight between “The Real Deal” and “Iron Mike” is a long way off with the Tyson camp rejecting the $25 million offer to hold a third clash with Holyfield.

Facing McBride instead makes sense with Holyfield probably wanting to see how good the Irish truly is.

Although the conditions are entirely different, duking out with McBride could be a way to prepare him for a potential clash with Tyson once money matters are ironed out.

The last time that “The Clones Cyclone” fought competitively was in 2011. He faced Mariusz Wach for the WBC International heavyweight title. He was knocked out by his opponent at the 2:25 mark of the fourth round.

Ironically, Holyfield also had his last fight that year against Brian Nielsen and won via TKO in the 10th round.

A lot has changed since then, with Holyfield working on a ring return with his sights apparently on Tyson. The two camps have reportedly been in discussions, but it appears the money on the table is what is holding back both sides.

Aside from Holyfield, Tyson is also considering other fighters like Lennox Lewis and Tyson Fury.

There is no update on who Tyson could face next, but Holyfield may be doing the right thing by returning first and then worrying about “The Baddest Man on the Planet” afterward.

The fight will be streamed live on Triller, according to Boxingscene.