Kenya Plans Tyson–Mayweather Exhibition Fight in Nairobi with State Backing

Kenya is planning to host a boxing exhibition between former world champions Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather Jr in Nairobi, with government support confirmed and negotiations with promoters nearing completion.

The proposed fight is being developed through a public-private partnership, with officials indicating that discussions are at an advanced stage. The event is now expected to take place in late May, having been brought forward from an earlier March timeline.

Uhuru Gardens has been identified as the preferred venue. The site has recently been used for major national and international events, and organisers view it as suitable for a large-scale sporting spectacle.

Abdishakur Mohamed Haji, director of Doors to Hollywood Kenya, said talks with representatives of both fighters were progressing well and that a formal contract was expected to be signed soon. He said the event was intended to position Kenya as a destination for high-profile entertainment and tourism.

The project is being coordinated by US promoter Bob Van Ronkel, president of Doors to Hollywood, a company that specialises in promoting international events. Organisers say the exhibition is designed to reach a global audience and highlight Kenya’s capacity to host world-class productions.

Government support has been confirmed through a letter from the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, which accepted the proposal in principle. Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya described the fight as a premium international property that aligns with Kenya’s strategy to grow sports tourism, attract private investment and expand its global profile.

Under the proposed arrangement, promoters would manage all commercial aspects, including broadcasting rights, production, athlete contracts and sponsorships. The government would provide support through security, immigration services, regulatory approvals and coordination between agencies. Commercial terms have not been disclosed, and formal negotiations are expected to define responsibilities and outcomes.

The announcement follows Tyson’s recent exhibition bout against Jake Paul, which attracted significant pay-per-view audiences. Tyson has previously spoken about his interest in fighting in Africa, citing personal links to the Democratic Republic of Congo, and has described the proposed contest as a historic event.

The exhibition would bring together two of boxing’s most recognisable figures. Mayweather retired in 2017 with an undefeated professional record and multiple world titles, while Tyson, a former undisputed heavyweight champion, continues to draw international interest despite his age.