It is a comeback that no-one in boxing wishes to see. Former WBA, WBC, WBO and IBF champion Riddick Bowe has now added his name to the list of former heavyweight greats planning a return to the ring.
Whereas old rivals Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson remain lucid and look in age-defying shape, Bowe has hit rougher times in retirement. He has been toying with a comeback for some time, but the spotlight on Tyson and Holyfield’s transformations seems to have relit old fires.
“I want to get out there. This is the perfect time, I believe, and I’m very excited to fight again,” Bowe told The Sun.
“It’s official. Actually, let me put it this way: I am officially back and want to and will fight. Come on Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield…”
Bowe (43-1, 33 KOs and I NC) attended the same school as ‘Iron Mike’ but their paths never crossed in a boxing ring with Tyson’s incarceration for rape largely coinciding with ‘Big Daddy’s’ brilliant, but brief reign at the top.
The Brooklyn great, now aged 52, says his manager has contacted promoter Eddie Hearn, but is, unsurprisingly, yet to receive a positive response. A number of promoters have approached Tyson about his potential comeback though Bowe is waiting for the clamour to die down before making his move.
“I was already planning a comeback. I’ve not reached out to Mike but I am,” he told The Sun. “The reason I haven’t yet is because he’s getting offers from all over and I don’t want this to be just another offer.
“I don’t want to be in the crowd. I’m serious and I’m waiting for everything to die down a bit. But I’m sure Mike knows I’m interested in doing a pro fight.
“I can say now that officially I am going to fight again. I am on a comeback now. That’s for sure.”