The World Boxing Council (WBC) is set to host its 62nd Annual Convention in the vibrant city of Hamburg, Germany, from December 8 to December 14. This prestigious event will gather some of the most prominent figures in the world of boxing, making it a highlight on the sport’s calendar. However, former undisputed heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield has issued a cautionary statement regarding his participation.

Evander Holyfield’s illustrious boxing career spanned an incredible four decades, during which he cemented his legacy as a four-time world heavyweight champion and held the coveted status of undisputed champion. Widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers in history, Holyfield’s achievements earned him a well-deserved place in the International Boxing Hall of Fame in June 2017.

Though retired, Holyfield remains a prominent figure in the sport, sharing his insights and opinions on fights throughout the year. Regardless, earlier today, the legendary fighter took to Instagram to issue a stern warning to his followers. Holyfield clarified that while his name has been linked to the WBC’s 62nd Annual Convention in Germany, he will not be attending the event in any capacity. 

“To my fans and supporters, it has come to my attention that my name is being promoted in connection with the WBC convention in Germany, suggesting that I will be in attendance,” Holyfield wrote in his statement. Holyfield claimed that he felt proud about being included in the prestigious event, but clarified, “I will not be attending this event.”

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“I believe in being honest and transparent with my fans. Integrity is everything, and I would never want anyone to feel misled,” Holyfield added, as he concluded the statement by thanking his fans for their continued support. While Holyfield might not have wanted to be a part of the convention, he was down for a boxing match against his former rival.

Evander Holyfield calls out Mike Tyson for a trilogy

Mike Tyson returned to the ring in November at the age of 58 for his professional fight against YouTube star Jake Paul. After Paul easily defeated Tyson via unanimous decision, Holyfield seems to have had a light bulb moment. Turning to Instagram, the boxing legend called out Tyson for a trilogy fight. 

The pair’s rivalry is iconic, with Holyfield holding two victories over Tyson. Their first bout in 1996 shocked the world, with Holyfield reclaiming the WBA heavyweight title. The infamous 1997 rematch, where Tyson was disqualified for biting Holyfield’s ear, remains one of boxing’s most controversial moments.

Regardless, sharing a makeshift poster for their fight, Holyfield wrote, “The fans want it.” However, Mike Tyson seemed uninterested in the matchup, as he responded back, writing, “I love you brother, but the trilogy is our friendship.”

That said, Evander Holyfield didn’t want his fans to be misled about the 62nd Annual Convention in Germany. It just goes to show that ‘The Real Deal’ cares about his followers as deeply as ever. But the question is, why was Holyfield’s warning necessary? Were you planning to attend the convention?