One of the questions that has gained great interest in the boxing world is, who will be Manny Pacquiao’s next opponent? His draw against Mario Barrios generated a wave of positive reactions for his performance. Many still believe that the Filipino deserved the victory, considering how he fought against the current welterweight champion. Even his last opponent, Yordenis Ugas, who retired Pacquiao four years ago, shared his admiration. “How is it possible that four years later he faces a boy 16 years younger and gives another good fight? Pacquiao is incredible. Without a doubt, one of the best in history,” Ugas said
Although Mario Barrios retained his belt, Manny Pacquiao won the sympathy of the public, and the fight revived conversations about a possible rematch between Pacquiao and Mayweather. The last time the two legends met was in 2015, in one of the most lucrative, yet disappointing fights in boxing history. Pacquiao fought on for six more years after that night, while Floyd Mayweather retired professionally in 2017. Now, with Pacquiao back in the ring and holding his own against a younger champion, he is already asking Mayweather to “sign the contract”.
Who supports the “Mayweather vs Pacquiao” rematch?
Curmel Moton, the undefeated lightweight prospect who turned professional in 2023, recently shared his thoughts on the rumor surrounding Manny Pacquiao’s rematch. Yesterday, Pro Boxing Fans posted a video on Instagram with the caption: “PACQUIAO VS MAYWEATHER 2”Curmel Morton wants to see two legends in the ring again”. In the video, Moton was asked his opinion on Pacquiao’s recent fight against Mario Barrios and whether a rematch should be the next step.
The 19-year-old, who has a current record of 8-0, offered a clear answer: “I don’t think Floyd wants a rematch, although Manny does. It was a great fight. I think we should leave it at that.” He then suggested his preferred option: “I’d like to see Pacquiao and Mayweather fight. That’s the fight I really want to see,” it was a very open answer where it really is the feeling of the general public, but his closeness to Mayweather has provided a clear picture of the former champion’s feelings.
For Teofimo, Pacquiao also saw Pacquiao as the winner against Mario Barrios
In an interview with Fight Hype earlier this month, Teofimo Lopez praised Manny Pacquiao’s remarkable form: “What Manny Pacquiao is doing at this age is different. He’s upbeat, full of energy, motivated and determined, and I look forward to seeing him raise his hands again, become world champion once again.” But when the 62-8 boxer’s fight against Mario Barrios was declared a draw, Lopez did not hold back his frustration.
“I had it 10-2, 9-3. The amount of punches he was landing, and in the last 10 seconds, he was showing more aggressive punches”. While many expected the rematch with Barrios to be next, Lopez had another vision in mind. He called for a rematch between Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. to avenge Pacquiao’s 2015 loss. “He should fight Mayweather,” said the 22-1 boxer. Why? Because “Pacquiao still has it. I don’t think he should do the rematch with Barrios. I feel like Pacquiao did more than enough and eclipsed him”.
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