Boxing icon Roy Jones Jr. has weighed in on the potential rematch between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao as the talks have reportedly advanced between the two legends, with the sequel likely to take place in 2026.
Their first meeting ended in a unanimous decision win for Mayweather but drew criticism for its lack of action despite smashing pay-per-view and box office records. Since then, Mayweather retired from professional boxing in 2017, while Pacquiao made a surprise comeback earlier this year, fighting Mario Barrios to a draw for the WBC welterweight title in July.
Speaking to Fight Hub TV, Jones praised both fighters for exploring one last major payday but warned against invoking his name in the process.
“If they can do it and make the money doing it, it’s a great move for both of them,” Jones said. “I don’t hate nobody for making money. I’d be crazy to do that. Just don’t call my name when you’re doing it. If you think you’re going to call my name and play a game with me, I’m going to have an issue. I wish nothing but the best to both of them.”
Jones then broke down how age and power could shape the rematch outcome.
“Manny’s chances go up now because he isn’t injured this time. They’re both a bit older, so if he can stay busier, we’ll see,” Jones explained. “Can Floyd still punch hard enough to get him out? I think he probably can, but we’ll see. Can Manny avoid Floyd’s knockout punch, and can Manny out-punch Floyd - that’s what I’m thinking.”
A final decision on the rematch is expected soon, though Pacquiao is also reportedly in talks for a WBA welterweight title bout against Rolly Romero, which could further complicate the negotiations.
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