Evander Holyfield will be the latest retired star to jump on the bandwagon of exhibition bouts. The former heavyweight champion of the world will follow his arch-nemesis Mike Tyson and return to the ring, however, his choice of an opponent will surprise many.

‘The Real Deal’ has been training for over a year and has completed a fantastic transformation. As a result, many suspected that he would enter a comeback fight against Mike Tyson. Instead, he will now face Kevin McBride on June 5.

Triller Fight Club’s Peter Kahn confirmed to Mark Kriegel from ESPN that Evander Holyfield would return to the ring on the undercard of Teofimo Lopez vs. George Kambosos Jr, but would not be boxing ‘The Baddest Man On The Planet’.

Reports suggested that negotiations between the two parties started well. However, a breakdown in the relationship between Tyson and Triller and demand from Holyfield meant that the trilogy would not happen.

READ: 3 Best and Worst Fights From Mike Tyson’s Phenomenal Record

What is Evander Holyfield trying to prove by fighting Kevin McBride?

Holyfield and Tyson have had a well-documented history between them. Therefore, a trilogy between the two was supposed to be the last chapter in their rivalry. However, fans will now miss out on witnessing that bout, at least in 2021.

Despite not getting to witness Tyson vs Holyfield 3, Holyfield’s choice of opponent will surprise fans, as Kevin McBride had a fairly low-profile career away from the big names or the title fights.

In addition, there were several other famous fighters for ‘The Real Deal’ to choose from. He could have fought the likes of Shannon Briggs and Lennox Lewis. Thus, his decision to fight McBride will raise a few eyebrows.

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It could be a case of Holyfield trying to prove a point to Mike Tyson by beating the last man to beat him. However, ‘The Real Deal’ will be glad he has the fight to look forward to.

What do you make of this news? Do you think Evander Holyfield is trying to prove something by fighting Kevin McBride?

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