Floyd Mayweather Calls Out Manny Pacquiao for Blockbuster 2025 Rematch, Igniting Boxing Frenzy
In a stunning development that has set the boxing world ablaze, Floyd Mayweather Jr. has publicly called out Manny Pacquiao for a highly anticipated rematch in 2025, reigniting one of the sport’s most storied rivalries. The announcement, made during a live interview, has fueled speculation about a second “Fight of the Century,” with Mayweather hinting at a nine-figure payday and Pacquiao’s camp signaling readiness for a clash that could redefine their legacies. As Pacquiao prepares for his July 19 comeback against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, the prospect of a Mayweather rematch has fans and analysts buzzing with excitement and debate.
The saga began when Mayweather, the undefeated 50-0 boxing legend, acknowledged Pacquiao’s pursuit of an exhibition rematch, stating, “If I was Manny Pacquiao, would I be chasing Floyd Mayweather for a good payday? Absolutely.” Mayweather’s comments, dripping with his trademark confidence, underscored the financial allure of a second bout, which could rival the record-breaking $440 million generated by their 2015 showdown. That fight, dubbed the “Fight of the Century,” saw Mayweather win by unanimous decision, but Pacquiao, hampered by a shoulder injury, has long maintained he deserved the victory. His recent remarks reveal lingering frustration, noting external influences and Mayweather’s environment as factors that shaped their rivalry beyond the ring.
Pacquiao, now 46, is no stranger to defying expectations. The eight-division world champion, who retired in 2021 after a loss to Yordenis Ugas, is training with renewed vigor under longtime coach Freddie Roach at Wildcard Gym in Los Angeles. His intense regimen of punching drills, sparring, and endurance work signals a determination to prove age is just a number. Pacquiao’s upcoming title fight against Barrios at the MGM Grand is seen as a stepping stone, with a potential Mayweather rematch looming as the ultimate prize. “I thought I won the fight,” Pacquiao said of their 2015 bout, emphasizing that a healthier shoulder and better preparation could make a rematch more action-packed. He also hinted at personal motivations, criticizing Mayweather’s character outside the ring while stopping short of direct blame.
The boxing community is divided on Pacquiao’s return. George Kambosos Jr., a former lightweight champion, praised Pacquiao’s competitive spirit, calling him a “living legend” who could surprise against Barrios. However, others, like boxing legend Ricky Hatton, expressed concern about the risks of a 46-year-old facing younger opponents, warning that such comebacks could tarnish cherished legacies. Social media reflects this split, with some fans on X hailing Pacquiao’s courage, while others question the fairness of granting him a title shot after years away from professional boxing. One analyst suggested Pacquiao’s return is a calculated move to maximize earnings, leveraging his global star power to draw massive viewership.
Mayweather, now 48, remains a polarizing figure. His dismissive response to Pacquiao’s 2015 shoulder injury—“Excuses, excuses, excuses”—and bold claim that he’d win “100 times” highlight the unresolved tension between the two. Their rivalry, which began with failed negotiations in 2009 and a defamation lawsuit over performance-enhancing drug allegations, has transcended the ring, captivating fans for over a decade. While Mayweather has stayed active with exhibition bouts, including fights under Japan’s Rizin promotion, Pacquiao’s camp insists a rematch would be an exhibition, potentially six rounds at two minutes each, to mitigate the physical toll.
The buzz surrounding a Mayweather-Pacquiao rematch is undeniable. Their 2015 fight drew 4.6 million pay-per-view buys, a record unlikely to be broken soon, and a 2025 rematch could approach similar numbers, especially with streaming platforms like Netflix eyeing boxing’s biggest events. Pacquiao’s preparation for Barrios, coupled with Mayweather’s knack for generating headlines, ensures this storyline will dominate 2025. Whether it’s about legacy, pride, or a massive payday, the world is watching to see if these two icons can deliver a fight that lives up to their storied past.
