The list of retired geezers contemplating a comeback of some sort continues to grow.
Now Riddick Bowe, 52, wants in on the action. The former heavyweight champ told The (U.K.) Sun that he likes the idea of fighting again and is targeting old rival Evander Holyfield, 57, and old friend Mike Tyson, 54, both of whom have already announced comeback plans.
Oscar De La Hoya, 47, also said he wants to fight again.
“If the fans want to see me fight again, I’m fighting. I want to make fans happy,” Bowe told The Sun. “Equally, I want to be remembered as one who did everything to truly make boxing great. I want to get out there.
“This is the perfect time, I believe, and I’m very excited to fight again. 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.
“[Tyson and I] went to the same school. We knew each other quite well. We started off fairly close being in the same neighborhood but then went different directions as our boxing developed.
“Of course, we both made it and became the world heavyweight champions. I am very excited I want to fight Mike now. … I will fight him any day of the week, whether it’s an exhibition, or even a pro fight.”
Tyson and Holyfield have made it clear that they intend to take part in charity exhibitions after the coronavirus pandemic subsides. De La Hoya has said he is interested in taking part in a sanctioned fight.
Bowe (43-1, 33 KOs) hasn’t fought since he outpointed journeyman Gene Pukall in 2008 in Germany. He went 2-1 in three fights with Holyfield and never fought Tyson.