Potential Rematch Between Mayweather and Pacquiao
Bob Santos, an experienced trainer, recently shared his thoughts on the potential rematch between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, suggesting that the long-anticipated sequel could still captivate fans. Having coached Mario Barrios against Pacquiao in July 2025, Santos expressed that while he would have preferred the two boxing legends to face each other years ago, the dialogue surrounding a second bout remains relevant.
Enduring Appeal of Their Rivalry
Santos highlighted the enduring appeal of their epic rivalry, stating,
“There’s an old saying: better late than never,”
when asked if he still finds the prospect intriguing. Despite their considerable ages—Mayweather nearing 49 and Pacquiao in his mid-forties—Santos believes their legacies and the excitement they bring to the sport warrant another matchup.
Benefits of Iconic Names in Boxing
“I’m a big fan of both fighters and their contributions to boxing,” Santos remarked to World Boxing News. He argued that bringing attention to the sport through such iconic names is beneficial for boxing overall. Santos dismissed the notion that aging should deter the fight, arguing life is filled with risks. He compared the situation to other professions with inherent dangers, stating,
“If they’re fit enough to go through the necessary medical evaluations and want to fight, who are we to say no?”
This perspective contrasts sharply with that of Abel Sanchez, another boxing authority, who suggested a rematch wouldn’t have significant sporting value.
Fan Interest and Legacy
The desire for a rematch has been rekindled as fans reflect on the unresolved nature of their first bout in 2015, which followed nearly five years of speculation before it eventually occurred. Pacquiao, who most recently fought to a draw for the WBC title, has been vocal that any rematch must be a legitimate professional fight, not an exhibition, emphasizing the importance of clarity around the agreement signed by both camps.
Conclusion
With Mayweather’s previously untarnished record potentially at stake, and given their high-profile histories, the conversation about this rematch continues to be a hot topic in boxing circles, showcasing the lasting allure both fighters maintain more than ten years after their first clash. Ultimately, while specifics of the fight remain fluid, the interest and debate surrounding Mayweather and Pacquiao’s future prospects highlight their significant impact on the sport of boxing.
Phil Jay, Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN), has more than 15 years of experience as a boxing journalist.
