World Boxing News understands that Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao are unlikely to follow through on a previous confirmation for a December rematch.
Speaking to Sean Gibbons recently, the MP Promotions President told WBN that Pacquiao is moving forward with a WBC title shot against Mario Barrios. This ongoing situation means Pacquiao’s announcement at RIZIN’s New Year’s Eve event last year.
The eight-weight boxing legend took to the ring and informed the crowd that he would face his old rival in 2024.
“I hope to see you in Japan in a big fight against Floyd Mayweather,’ Pacquiao stated. “I’m excited for that.”
In Saudi Arabia, he added, “I have an exhibition match coming in December [2024] in Japan. We’re working on the opponent. We’re working with Mayweather.”
Asked where the fight would occur, Pacquiao replied: “Tokyo.”
Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2 delayed
The consensus was that Mayweather vs. Pacquiao II was tentatively agreed to for New Year’s Eve this year at RIZIN’s most significant event of 2024. However, with Pacquiao returning to the professional ranks in the coming months, the Mayweather fight will not be able to go ahead in December.
WBN Lead Writer Alan Dawson confirmed on Wednesday in a comprehensive exclusive on the future of Premier Boxing Champions that Pacquiao vs. Barrios will be part of the PBC schedule. On the same day, Gibbons said similar to WBN.
This outcome leaves Mayweather waiting in the wings for his nemesis to finish his pro career again while he competes in exhibitions worldwide. The ‘Money’ man’s latest is in Mexico this weekend.
Speaking at the final press conference this week, Mayweather outlined his excitement.
“I’m back in Mexico again. I spoke about this the other day. The country of Mexico. The boxing pedigree in the whole country. Since I was a little kid, it has been truly unbelievable. There are so many legendary champions. So many legendary fighters,” said Mayweather.
“One thing about me is that I’ve heard it all. I’ve been around the world and competed against the best. When you talk about the Olympics, I’ve competed against the best, whether it was the world champion in the Olympics or professionally.
“I want to say thank you to my team and the Gottis. Let’s go out there and put on a show,” he concluded.
Pacquiao was not mentioned, as the rematch firmly goes on the back burner.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
