After seeking medical support and a full clearance from Mayo Clinic, Holyfield returns to the ring for the first time in more than a year. May 2nd, his first fight since retirement, ends with a unanimous victory in the 10th round against Ray Mercer. Takes on Bowe in a rubber match on November 4th displaying awesome power early in the match, knocking Bowe to the canvas for the first time in his career. Holyfield later loses the fight in the 8th round by the referee's decision to end the fight after witnessing his fatigue and disillusionment caused by Bowe's punches. After four years Tyson returns to the ring, knocking down Peter McNeeley seven seconds into the first round. Laying McNeeley down with a vintage uppercut, McNeeley's manager steps in the ring, automatically disqualifying his fighter. After a previous fight postponement, due to a broken right thumb sustained in training, Tyson defeats Buster Mathis Jr. on December 16th with a 3rd round KO. This becomes Iron Mike's first knockdown since Ruddock on March 18, 1991.