A rematch between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao could happen – but with some changes to their original money-making channel.
Mayweather defeated Pacquiao in 2015 to end boxing’s longest journey, which cost more than $1,000. £500 million,
4
4
But even after retirement there remains the possibility of the pair facing off again, as they continue to compete in exhibition bouts.
And Japanese MMA promotion RIZIN could be the unexpected source that holds the key to a deal between the ring icons.
Pacquiao, 45, will take on former kickboxing champion Rukiya Anpo, 28, this weekend in Tokyo.
Meanwhile, Mayweather, 47, has two knockout wins against martial arts opponents under the Rizin banner.
Promoter Nobuyuki Sakakibara has revealed that a rematch with Pacquiao remains a possibility – provided his professional record is not at stake.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if anything happens one of these days because the possibility is still there,” Sakakibara told SunSport.
“We still have a good relationship with Floyd, but he’s not thinking about getting back into real competitive fighting.
“I understand there’s no interest on his part in an unofficial fight, and Manny is interested in it.
Casino Specials – Best Casino Welcome Offers
“So it all depends on the timing. And when everything falls into place, I’m sure the rematch will happen.”
Last year, Pacquiao and Sakakibara announced that a rematch with Mayweather was being planned for 2024.
But the American great will play John Gotti III in Mexico on August 24.
Mayweather officially retired after defeating UFC superstar Conor McGregor, 36, in 2017 but has been doing exhibition boxing ever since.
His last fight, against the grandson of notorious crime boss Gotti – ended in a brawl in the ring and led to a rematch.
Pacquiao, meanwhile, retired after a loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021 – but has been hoping for a comeback ever since.
And the WBC even controversially opened the way for Pacman to challenge welterweight champion Mario Barrios, 29, for the title.
Pacquiao is using his performance with Anpo to fuel his comeback, but Rizin is open to bouts with the Filipino in the future.
Sakakibara said: “Depending on the result and his performance in his upcoming fight on July 28, we will have to assess the market to see if his comeback will be worthwhile.
“This is a single-combat deal, so if we want to get that back, we have to make sure there is demand in the market.
Read more at The Scottish Sun
“If we can build momentum and anticipation together – since Manny himself still wants to have competitive fights – then he’s not thinking this is his last fight.
“If things go well, there’s a good chance that there could be more fights with Manny Pacquiao at Rizin.”
