By MARK REY MONTEJO
Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao said on Wednesday, Oct. 29, that there are ongoing negotiations between him and Floyd Mayweather Jr. for a possible rematch next year.
The 46-year-old Pacquiao, who came out of retirement for a Mario Barrios bout last July, revealed that the historic “Fight of the Century” between him and Mayweather held a decade ago would be having its sequel in the first quarter or later part of 2026.
“We’re finalizing a few conditions, hoping na magkasundo kami, marami ding mga opponent pero inaayos pa namin..” said Pacquiao.
“Siguro after this [Thrilla in Manila 2], we’ll give feedback about the negotiations… we’ll announce it,” he added.
Since their first clash in May 2015 where the flamboyant pug prevailed at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, the talks of a follow-up bout had been floated many times before, but unfortunately, nothing happened. All were speculations.
Also in the radar for the former Senator is Ukrainian Vasyl Lomachenko, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and multi-world champion.
Lomachenko, 37, decided to retire from boxing only last June.
Several reports as well were out that an American giant streaming service is backing up the much-anticipated rematch.
“Part of the discussion right now is the [schedule, we’re still finalizing,” he continued.
On the other hand, it’s been a while since Mayweather fought professionally, but welcomed exhibition matches like Pacquiao.
Wanted: Next big thing
The only eight-division world champion remained busy with his new duty as vice president of the International Boxing Association.
Together with the boxing body, Pacquiao and company aim to look for the next world champion as the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships fires off Dec. 2 to 13 in Dubai, UAE.
“We hope we’ll see the next world champion there,” said Pacquiao. “May mga Pinoy tayong ipapadala do’n.”
