Manny Pacquiao confirmed what World Boxing News reported last week, that a rematch with Floyd Mayweather is in the works.
The eight-weight boxing legend told fans to be patient after WBN revealed interest from Showtime and RIZIN in staging an exhibition this December.
According to Filipino media, a press conference had been scheduled for a Pacquiao vs Mayweather II announced at a RIZIN event on New Year’s Eve. However, late interest from Showtime saw the media event called off at the last minute.
Showtime is interested in hosting Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2 on its final broadcast before leaving the sport. December 9 is the date penciled in with Mikey Garcia on standby for Mayweather if Pacquiao is unable to compete.
At present, Pacquiao’s participation is up in the air due to his interest in qualifying for the Paris Olympic Games in 2024.
Speaking on Tuesday, Pacquiao told everyone to be patient.
Manny Pacquiao promises Floyd Mayweather rematch update
“Just wait for updates on a Mayweather vs Pacquiao rematch,” said Pacquiao, as translated by Filipino media station ANC 24/7. “Maybe in a week or two, we will receive updates.
“Just wait. I am training every day,” he added.
Pacquiao has the backing of his country to grab one of the spots available for Paris 2024. The “Pac-Man” hopes to go for gold despite turning 45 by the end of the year.
Places for the tournament are at a premium. This means Pacquiao will have to wait to see if a request for special dispensation is accepted.
Regarding Mayweather, Showtime moved quickly to get the former pound-for-pound king involved as they ready to say goodbye to boxing for good.
Showtime finale
Despite Mayweather keeping quiet, as usual, several reports on United States soil believe Mayweather vs Garcia will happen on a mammoth card featuring several other bouts.
It’s no secret that Pacquiao would be the preferred option in the opposite corner to Mayweather. But for now, the ex-Congressman won’t know if he can commit until early November.
That only gives both superstars a few weeks to be in the best shape they can be. The bout is expected to be an eight-round move-around.
In addition, Danny Garica, Erislandy Lara, Keith Thurman, and Eimantas Stanionis are just four of the many boxers lined up to appear alongside Mayweather [vs Garica or Pacquiao].
Further details will be revealed soon. Showtime Sports will fade away like rival HBO following a successful 37-year spell televising many significant events.
In 2015, the first Mayweather vs Pacquiao headliner smashed box office records as the pair went toe-to-toe at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Phil Jay is an experienced boxing news writer.
Editor of World Boxing News since 2010.
