Potential Rematch Between Boxing Legends
The potential for another match between boxing legends Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather is gaining attention as both fighters return to the ring in different capacities. Pacquiao, aged 46, made his comeback in July, facing Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title, resulting in a draw—his first official match since 2021. Meanwhile, the 48-year-old Mayweather is scheduled to meet fellow boxing icon Mike Tyson, 59, in an exhibition in spring 2026.
Recent Performances
Pacquiao’s draw with Barrios marked a return to professional competition, although he had participated in exhibition bouts during his hiatus. On the other hand, Mayweather has engaged in several exhibition matches since his last professional contest, which was a stoppage victory over UFC fighter Conor McGregor in 2017.
Prospects of a Rematch
With both fighters back in the sport, Sean Gibbons, Pacquiao’s adviser, discussed the prospects of a rematch against Mayweather, referencing their historic 2015 battle, noted as the highest-grossing pay-per-view event in boxing history, where Mayweather triumphed by decision.
“Only Floyd can answer that,”
he remarked regarding the possibility of rekindling their rivalry. Gibbons revealed that they had signed with PBC and Al Haymon in 2019, initially aiming for a rematch that seemed plausible after Pacquiao’s performances against Adrien Broner and Keith Thurman.
“Manny later fought Yordenis Ugas and lost a decision, but now that he’s back, the ball is in Floyd’s court.”
Pacquiao’s Ambitions
He expressed admiration for Mayweather while emphasizing that the latter has transitioned to exhibitions, with Pacquiao remaining dedicated to legitimate competition.
“Manny is always available if it makes dollars and makes sense,”
Gibbons stated, stressing that Pacquiao aims for substantial bouts. Pacquiao has also been linked to fights against notable opponents like Conor Benn but insists on pursuing impactful matchups.
Highlighting Pacquiao’s ambition, Gibbons explained:
“He wants to break his own records and make history, similar to his achievement of winning a world title at age 40. He intended to set another record at 46, which didn’t occur, but he is targeting that goal at 47 now.”
Manny has returned to boxing full-time after stepping away from politics, where he served as a senator in the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, and shifted his focus back to his passion for fighting. Recent performances showcase that he can still compete at a high level.
Commitment to the Sport
Critics previously doubted Pacquiao’s return, believing he was merely in it for financial gain; however, Gibbons insists that’s not the case—
“he loves fighting and is committed to making a mark in boxing history.”
As the situation with both fighters unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of a rematch between two of the sport’s finest, with the outcome remaining to be seen depending largely on Mayweather’s decisions going forward.
