WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia has claimed a bout with Floyd Mayweather Jnr is set for February, saying during a live social media address that the fight would take place on February 6 in Las Vegas. Garcia, 28, said the contest would be a real fight rather than an exhibition, adding that he intended to hurt Mayweather badly. Mayweather, who is 50-0 and has not competed at 147lbs since beating Andre Berto in 2015, is currently facing legal disputes over two exhibition fights and uncertainty over a legitimate rematch with Manny Pacquiao.

Eddie Hearn has backed the idea, arguing the storyline of one of the greatest fighters of all time attempting to reclaim a world title against a young, fast puncher is compelling, and questioning whether anyone would bet against Mayweather at 49. Devin Haney has also weighed in, saying he believes Mayweather could win but doubts the fight will happen. Haney added that he would happily face Mayweather for the undisputed welterweight title if he won.S1S2

Garcia's career has seen a dramatic run, including a no contest after a failed test for a banned substance, a loss to Rolando Romero in his welterweight debut, a win over Mario Barrios for the WBC belt and a quick knockout of Conor Benn in his first defence. A unification bout with Teofimo Lopez is now in serious doubt. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has said the fight would be sanctioned for Garcia's title, pending a licence and clear medicals.S2

Mayweather has been less certain, listing Garcia among potential big bouts for 2027 while also mentioning rematches with Pacquiao, Conor McGregor and Oscar De La Hoya. His next scheduled appearance is an exhibition against Australia's Matt Floyd on December 19 in Bangkok, Thailand. If he were to win against Garcia at this age, he would become the oldest world champion in boxing history, surpassing Bernard Hopkins' record, though some fans and analysts remain sceptical the bout will take place.S1S2