Floyd Mayweather provided a long overdue update on his rematch with Manny Pacquiao.
It was announced earlier this year that the two boxing icons would renew their money-spinning rivalry by facing off in a professional rematch. Pacquiao last competed in the paid ranks in 2025, fighting to a draw against then WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. Mayweather, however, retired in 2017 and had shown no desire to put his 50-0 record on the line since.
Despite the fight being confirmed by Netflix, Mayweather poured cold water on the plans by claiming that it would instead be an exhibition. Pacquiao’s side responded by saying the comments contradicted what had already been agreed, and that binding contracts were in place.
As this dispute played out behind the scenes, Mayweather has also been busy preparing for an exhibition against Greek kickboxer Mike Zambidis.
As reported by ESPN’s Andreas Hale, at the official press conference for the bout, Mayweather commented on the Pacquiao rematch positively and said that it is on track to be completely finalised within two days.
Floyd Mayweather said that the Pacquiao fight is “close to the finish line” and believes it will get done in the next 48 hours. pic.twitter.com/H7nvoCps11
— Andreas Hale (@AndreasHale) May 7, 2026
What was being negotiated after the initial announcement remains unclear, but given Pacquiao’s insistence that the fight would be a professional bout and his lack of interest in an exhibition, it appears the American – who won the first fight in 2015 by unanimous decision – is now back on board with those terms.
Given that The Sphere will no longer play host and that the most recent reports suggest the fight will be brought forward, a new announcement with updated details will come should Mayweather’s words ring true. This time, perhaps, it will be set in stone.
