In Saitama’s electrified atmosphere, New Year’s Eve brought more than celebrations. Rizin’s 45th event, buzzing with anticipation, had a surprise guest: Manny Pacquiao. The boxing legend wasn’t there to fight but to stir excitement with a few words. The crowd, sensing a major announcement, leaned in.

Rizin CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara posed a question, dangling a tantalizing prospect. Floyd Mayweather’s name cut through the noise, sparking murmurs. Pacquiao’s response was poised but incomplete, leaving the audience intrigued. Are we about see their rematch after 9 years?

Manny Pacquiao has a surprise planned!

Their 2015 bout, known as ‘MayPac,’ was the most lucrative boxing match ever, grossing over £500 million with a record 4.6 million pay-per-views in the U.S. alone. While the first match was won by Mayweather, Pacquiao has long sought a rematch, citing a shoulder injury as a hindrance in their initial encounter. Come April, he’s set to showcase his enduring skills in an exhibition match against Muay Thai icon Buakaw Banchamek in Bangkok, a testament to his unyielding spirit.

In the midst of this busy schedule, Pacquiao’s appearance at Rizin’s event brought a different kind of excitement. The exchange between him and Rizin CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara was both candid and electrifying. Sakakibara, tapping into the collective curiosity of the boxing world, asked, “Fight against Floyd Mayweather next year?”

Pacquiao, ever the crowd pleaser, responded with a mix of gratitude and anticipation, “Yeah, thank you so much for inviting me here again. I’m sorry for the last time that we promised that we’re going to fight this year. Next year I’m going to see you in Japan, again big fight against-” Sakakibara interjected, clarifying the opponent, “Floyd Mayweather.” Pacquiao affirmed, “Floyd Mayweather, yeah. I thought that you didn’t want me to say that. But I am excited about that. Thank you for always supporting Rizin and Sakakibara.”

While details are still unconfirmed, the rematch, if it happens, is expected to be an exhibition match and will not affect their professional records. The boxing community eagerly awaits official confirmation, as this could be another historic event in the sport.

Let’s now focus on the upcoming bout that the Pacman is training for

A unique encounter in Bangkok

Also Read: Manny Pacquiao’s Olympic Dream Is Far-Fetched, Here’s Why

As these exciting prospects loom on the horizon, one can’t help but wonder: What new chapters will these matches add to the storied history of boxing? If Manny wins against Floyd, would we see a trilogy too? What are your thoughts on these upcoming matches?

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