Eddie Hearn says he understands a fight between Floyd Mayweather and Ryan Garcia is happening and is backing the 49-year-old former champion to beat the reigning WBC welterweight titleholder. However, the proposed contest remains unconfirmed, with no official date, venue or broadcaster announced.

The Matchroom promoter welcomed the prospect of Mayweather returning for a genuine world-title contest rather than another exhibition.

“By the way, I think Floyd beats him. Yes, I do,” Hearn said. “If you want to come back and fight for the world championship against a great young fighter, then I’m excited. I mean, I’m excited to see that.”

Hearn also indicated that, from his understanding, the bout is on, adding weight to Garcia’s claim that he and Mayweather have agreed to meet.

Garcia sparked the latest discussion on October 21, saying the pair had agreed to a professional contest at 147 pounds for his WBC welterweight championship. He also shared a screenshot of a video call with Mayweather.

“Trust me, at first I thought this was bullshit,” Garcia wrote. “But it’s real. Floyd and I agree to a fight. 147 for the WBC welterweight championship of the world. 50-0 vs the current champ.”

The proposed meeting would therefore be more than an exhibition: Garcia is presenting it as a championship fight against an unbeaten former champion whose professional record stands at 50 wins and no defeats.