Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao 2: Should This Matchup Become a Reality Once Again?

Pugilism’s very own ‘Pretty Boy’ Floyd Mayweather Jr (50-0, 27 KOs) has had multiple memorable matchups in his career. But nothing remains as iconic as his 2015 showdown against Manny Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KOs). ‘Pacman’ recently hinted at a potential rematch with Mayweather under the RIZIN banner. However, the question remains: should the fans get their hopes up for the reincarnation of this matchup?

Pacquiao was in attendance at the Saitama Super Arena in Japan for RIZIN 45. He was invited to the ring by the promotion’s CEO, Nobuyuki Sakakibara, who asked him if he wished to fight Mayweather again.

“Thank you so much for inviting me here again. I’m sorry for the last time that we promised that we are going to fight. I’m going to fight this year,” Pacquiao responded. “I hope to see you here again next year, in Japan, with big fight against…Floyd Mayweather, yeah. I thought you didn’t want me to say that.”

Pacquiao’s words undoubtedly sent fans into a frenzy. Many were curious how the rematch would look almost nine years after their record-setting event. Their fight in 2015 generated a whopping $600 million, making it the richest fight in boxing history. While the fight wasn’t as entertaining as fans had anticipated, the hype surrounding it was ungodly, to say the least.

The first negotiations for the fights started in 2009 when the then-retired Mayweather came out of retirement and spoke about facing Pacquiao. The duo found it hard to reach an agreement regarding the split. Plans were later made to have Mayweather face Pacquiao on March 13, 2010. The fight, however, suffered hiccups due to differences over drug testing and failed to materialize as they were again unable to reach a deal.

There were regular talks about negotiations over the following years. Meanwhile, the duo faced other opponents and even won and defended their respective titles across multiple divisions.

Pacquiao retained his WBO welterweight title in 2014, after securing a decision victory against Chris Algieri (25-4, 9 KOs). Post his victory, he revealed that it was now time he fought Mayweather.

“I think it’s time to make that fight happen. The people deserve that fight. The fans deserve that fight. I want that fight. They’re always denying the fight. I think the fight has to happen,” Pacquiao said.

Mayweather and Pacquiao successfully negotiated and decided on a May 2, 2015, showdown. The welterweight fight took place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Nevada, and Mayweather was declared the winner by unanimous decision. The fight also made Mayweather the owner of the WBA, WBC, WBO, and The Ring welterweight titles.

A paradox in the making?

Mayweather was 38 years old when he faced then-34-year-old Pacquiao. Both fighters have been away from the professional boxing scene for a few years, even though they have been actively fighting in exhibitions. It is currently unknown whether they will come out of retirement for the potential fight or have an exhibition bout.

Meanwhile, the lack of response from Mayweather’s end has been concerning. The champ has often been the first to break the news about future matchups. While Pacquiao dropped the bomb on live television, the terms of the fight are unknown. Moreover, there is no news of an offer being made to Mayweather.

The response from fans has not been favorable either. The previous lackluster performance may have made boxing aficionados lose hope in the once highly awaited matchup. Without the announcement of an offer in place or a tentative date, only time will tell if the fight actually takes place or if it will remain an overhyped marketing gimmick.

Joshua Ben Joseph

Joshua Ben Joseph is a Boxing writer renowned for his unparalleled coverage of live events and insightful interviews with prominent athletes in the world of combat sports. With a career spanning over several years, he has authored more than 800 articles. As an experienced editorial cartoonist and investigative journalist, Joshua has a keen eye for detail and a passion for delivering quality content. Aside from his writing, Joshua is an avid powerlifter and solo traveler, embodying the same spirit of determination and exploration that he brings to his work. With a deep love for the sport of boxing that dates back to childhood, he is committed to delivering the highest quality content and helping to build a more transparent and credible industry.

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