Mayweather accepts Khabib challenge - (2026)

Updated: 24/02/2026

Boxing great Floyd Mayweather has suggested that he is willing to put his undefeated record on the line by taking on UFC fighter Khabib Nurmagomedov. Responding to a challenge issued by Khabib via Leonard Ellerbe's Instagram, the 41-year-old called on promoters to get their chequebooks out, signing off with “Let's make Las Vegas great again”.

In the days building up to UFC 229, much of the conversation centred around future match ups. Would Tony Ferguson face the winner? Would Khabib be keen for a rematch? Would McGregor continue with his boxing career?

The fight that was mentioned most often was a prospective rematch between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather, who came to blows last August at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The fight ended in a 10th round victory for Mayweather, allowing the American to earn a perfect 50 – 0 record, yet many were surprised just how well the Notorious UFC star fared inside the squared circle.

When McGregor was defeated by Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229, it appeared unlikely that fans would get to see a McGregor / Mayweather rematch any time soon; however, a fight between Khabib and Mayweather could now be on the cards.

Earlier this week, Khabib called out Mayweather in an instagram video, suggesting that the pair should arrange a fight. “Let's go Floyd. We have to fight now.” said Khabib. “We are two guys who never lose,” said Khabib in the video, “50-0 versus 27-0.”

“[But] in the jungle there is only one king. Of course, I am the king because he cannot drop McGregor but I drop him easily. Let's go.”

Mayweather has now responded to Khabib, posting on twitter: “CBS, Showtime and MGM Grand get the checkbook out!” wrote Mayweather (see below). “Go to [Leonard Ellerbe's] page to view Khabib Nurmagomedov challenging me.

“Let's make Las Vegas great again!”

Scheduling a fight in Las Vegas could be problematic for Khabib however. The 30-year-old is currently being investigated by the Nevada State Athletic Commission following a brawl that happened directly after his victory over McGregor. The NSAC are refusing to pay Khabib's $2 million purse, yet the possibility of a fight with Floyd Mayweather may convince them to change their minds.

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