Michael Phelps to Race Great White Shark for “Shark Week”

Can Michael Phelps butterfly stroke his way to victory against a Great White?

Photo: Shutterstock

Michael Phelps, the world’s most decorated Olympian, is coming out of retirement to race the ocean’s deadliest predator.

According to a press release from the Discovery Channel, this epic showdown is set to take place on July 23, during “Shark Week”.

No man has attempted to compete with a Great White shark at swimming.

Phelps, who retired after Rio 2016, will certainly have his hands full. His opponent can swim at a speed of up to 25mph in open water, while he was clocked at 6mph in his prime in 2010.

The format of the race is still up in the air, but we highly doubt it’ll take place in open waters. Perhaps in a controlled environment, like an Olympic size swimming pool?

Besides the race, Phelps will also take park in another program called “Shark School”. The program aims to “dispel the myths and common misconceptions” about sharks.

“Shark Week” takes place from July 23 to 30. The program can be seen in the image above.

Who do you think will win the race: Michael Phelps or the Great White? Let us know in the comments.