Manny Pacquiao sent a clear message to Floyd Mayweather, stating that he would fight him again if the undefeated champion decides to come out of retirement. On Saturday, July 19, ‘Pac-Man’ returned to the ring at 46 years old, delivering an electrifying performance against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Facing an opponent 16 years younger, Pacquiao displayed an impressive physique and a level of conditioning that would be the envy of many younger athletes. Despite his power punches and sharp movement, the bout ended in a majority draw, falling just short of a historic win that would have added another milestone to Pacquiao’s storied career.
With the draw, Mario Barrios retained his title, but beyond that result-which seemed secondary to most-the biggest takeaway is that Pacquiao is back. And not just back, but motivated to stay active, even at his age.
Fans are eager to see a rematch of the 2015 fight with Mayweather
Now that Manny ‘Pac-Man’ Pacquiao is officially back, he isn’t ruling out the idea of a rematch with Floyd Mayweather, whom he faced nearly a decade ago in 2015. Ten years later, with both fighters now veterans of the sport, a second clash between them seems more plausible-and perhaps more anticipated than ever.
It’s hard to talk about a fighter who [has] retired,” “[But] if he comes out [of retirement] and signs the contract, then we will fight. Let’s fight again, if he wants, I have no problem with that. I’m active now… I’ll fight them all.
Pacquiao made the remarks during his post-fight press conference in Las Vegas.
He then reiterated his stance in a televised interview, adding:
We’re gonna discuss it in the next couple of days on what we’re going to do.
Their first bout remains the most commercially successful boxing event in history and, for some, the most significant of the century. The fight generated a staggering $300 million, with $180 million going to Mayweather.
Floyd Mayweather retired with a perfect 50-0 record, though many of his victories have faced criticism. In several matches, he was accused of spending more time running and delivering light shots than truly engaging.
In recent weeks, speculation has surfaced suggesting that a rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao would break all existing revenue records. For now, Mayweather remains retired, having last fought in 2017 against Conor McGregor.
Still, the immense financial potential of a second fight might just convince ‘Money’to lace up his gloves once more. And for fans, that possibility is cause for serious excitement.
They are waiting for past figures in boxing to demonstrate real power, to continue increasing the love for this sport. It is important to have real celebrities creating new audiences for boxing, and thriving new boxers.
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