Manny Pacquiao could be set for a return to the global spotlight, with plans underway to feature the eight-division champion in a co-main event alongside Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.
He then signed for a money-spinning rematch with Floyd Mayweather, but legal issues on the American’s side have seen that postponed with no rescheduled date. The Filipino’s team made it clear that he is still looking to get out this year, with most expecting an exhibition.
However, Shakur Stevenson may land the biggest commercial showcase of his career opposite the 47-year-old Hall of Famer.
According to a report by Boxing Scene, a historic “double main event” pairing Pacquiao and Stevenson remains actively in the works, even after the Joshua vs Fury heavyweight clash has moved across the Atlantic to Cardiff’s Principality Stadium.
Broadcast giants Netflix are understood to be pushing hard for the two-fight mega-bill, which is likely to take place on December 11.
Stevenson (25-0, 11 KOs) joined Zuffa Boxing on an exclusive multi-fight deal earlier this year, but is yet to have his debut fight under the fledgling promotion.
He has recently been linked to fellow super-lightweight world champion Gary Antuanne Russell – a more traditional match-up and perhaps with more intrigue, given Pacquiao’s advancing years. The weight for the proposed cross-generational contest is unclear, with the American recently saying he would only go as high as a 144lbs catchweight but Pacquiao unlikely to drop beneath 147.
There will also be questions raised about the legitimacy of the fight, given 29-year-old Stevenson has proved to be one of the very best fighters in the sport today, whilst Pacquiao, despite a record-breaking career, will be a week out from his 48th birthday come the event.
