Manny Pacquiao, 45, has revealed that he will be rematching Floyd Mayweather, 46, nearly a decade after their record-breaking fight. Mayweather emerged victorious in their 2015 bout, which generated £500 million and a record-breaking 4.6 million pay-per-view sales in America.
The Long-Awaited Rematch
Ever since his defeat, Pacquiao has been campaigning for a rematch, citing a shoulder injury as the reason behind his loss. Now, it seems his wish may come true as he hinted at a rematch taking place in Japan next year. During an event in Saitama, Pacquiao mentioned a "big fight" and paused before the president of Japanese MMA promotion RIZIN, Nobuyuki Sakakibara, said "Floyd Mayweather." Pacquiao then confirmed, "Floyd Mayweather, yeah. I thought that you didn't want me to say that. But I am excited about that."
Mayweather's Boxing Journey
Mayweather went on to box twice more after his victory over Pacquiao. He defeated Andre Berto and took a brief two-year retirement before returning to face UFC superstar Conor McGregor. Mayweather, now 46, has not fought professionally since his win against McGregor, but has participated in exhibition bouts against various opponents from different combat sports backgrounds.
Pacquiao's Boxing Return
Pacquiao, on the other hand, retired in 2021 following a points defeat to Yordenis Ugas. However, after a failed presidential campaign in the Philippines, the eight-division champion began teasing a return to boxing. He had an exhibition match against Korean martial arts influencer DK Yoo in December and is set to face Muay Thai icon Buakaw Banchamek on April 20 in another exhibition bout.
A Potential RIZIN Rematch
RIZIN, the Japanese MMA promotion, has expressed interest in hosting a rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao in the past. Talks for Pacquiao to fight on a RIZIN card last year fell through, but with the recent announcement, there is renewed hope for the highly anticipated rematch.
Representatives for Pacquiao, Mayweather, and RIZIN have been contacted for further information.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
Source: SE
