Manny Pacquiao is making one thing clear — despite the noise, the rematch with Floyd Mayweather Jr. is still very much alive.
Speaking this week, Pacquiao insisted he is “100% confident” their scheduled September 19 clash will go ahead. “We both signed the contract and we both got our advance… there’s no way we’re going to cancel this fight,” he said, brushing aside recent uncertainty.
That uncertainty stems from Mayweather’s comments suggesting the bout could be an exhibition and not a professional contest. Pacquiao didn’t hide his frustration: “What we signed was a real fight, not an exhibition… I don’t know where he got this idea from.” His stance remains firm - this is meant to be a legitimate rematch, not a spectacle.
Behind the scenes, tensions have also surfaced. Pacquiao’s promoter, Jas Mathur, confirmed there have been contract concerns but added that progress is being made. “We’re gaining progress and traction… Floyd has to live up to his obligations,” he said, while still expressing confidence the situation will be resolved.
The fight is targeted for The Sphere in Las Vegas. If finalized, it would mark one of the biggest boxing attractions in recent years.
Image Credit: BBC