Rumors swirl as Manny Pacquiao steps back into the ring—could a billion-dollar twist be next? This week marks the return of Manny Pacquiao, 46, who steps back into the spotlight on July 19 at the MGM Grand. The former eight-division world champion is set to face 30-year-old Mario Barrios for the WBC interim title, but there’s more to this fight week than just the main event.
Floyd Mayweather’s Quiet Move During Pacquiao Fight Week Has Fans Talking originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Rumors swirl as Manny Pacquiao steps back into the ring—could a billion-dollar twist be next?
This week marks the return of Manny Pacquiao, 46, who steps back into the spotlight on July 19 at the MGM Grand. The former eight-division world champion is set to face 30-year-old Mario Barrios for the WBC interim title, but there’s more to this fight week than just the main event. Behind the scenes, something far bigger might be in motion—something with a billion-dollar price tag.
According to veteran boxing journalist Lance Pugmire, there could be a major surprise in attendance.
Pugmire posted on X: ‘Went over to @FloydMayweather Boxing Club upon my arrival today in Vegas for @MannyPacquiao fight week, was told to expect Floyd to attend with two fighters on the card. “Conversations are already happening … if Manny wins, this (rematch) could be worth billions,” I was told.’
Went over to @FloydMayweather Boxing Club upon my arrival today in Vegas for @MannyPacquiao fight week, was told to expect Floyd to attend with two fighters on the card. “Conversations are already happening … if Manny wins, this (rematch) could be worth billions,” I was told.
— Lance Pugmire (@pugboxing) July 15, 2025
Their first meeting on May 2, 2015, was billed as the “Fight of the Century,” shattering financial records while leaving fans disappointed. Now, nearly a decade later, whispers of a rematch—between a 46-year-old Pacquiao and a 48-year-old Floyd Mayweather—are surfacing.
The intrigue is undeniable, but the fan reaction has been mixed. One fan wrote: ‘If you’d pay to see these old men fight you’re crazy… I wouldn’t pay $100 again to see that BS.’ Another called it ‘Disgraceful if this happens might as well rob the bank.’ Still, some remain curious: ‘That would definitely be interesting.’
Whether fans love it or hate it, the buzz is real. If Pacquiao wins this weekend, boxing’s biggest payday could rise from the ashes—and the sport will be watching every second.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
