What to know about Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao rematch - ESPN

ESPN

by Andreas Hale

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao are set for a highly anticipated rematch nearly 11 years after their first clash in 2015. Scheduled for September 19 at Sphere in Las Vegas, this fight will be streamed on Netflix and is not an exhibition but a real competition to determine a winner. Both fighters have seen significant changes since their initial encounter, with Mayweather fighting only twice since his dominant win over Pacquiao in 2015 (against Conor McGregor in 2017 and Mike Tyson in an exhibition in 2023). Pacquiao, on the other hand, has remained active, competing eight times since their first meeting. The rematch comes amid a shift in the boxing landscape, driven by the massive success of Jake Paul's fights, particularly his bout against Mike Tyson in 2024. These high-profile matches have opened doors for similar matchups, allowing fighters to earn substantial sums without relying solely on pay-per-view sales. Mayweather and Pacquiao’s rematch is a prime example, as both fighters stand to benefit financially from the event. While Mayweather enters the fight at age 49 and Pacquiao at 47, their ages have not diminished the excitement surrounding this matchup. Both fighters have indicated their commitment to putting on an entertaining show for fans. Pacquiao has hinted at a possible retirement after this fight, adding urgency to the proceedings. Meanwhile, Mayweather’s decision to return from his self-imposed hiatus highlights the financial incentives of facing a legendary opponent like Pacquiao. The rematch is significant because it taps into nostalgia and the enduring rivalry between two of boxing's most iconic figures. While their first encounter underwhelmed in terms of action, fans are hopeful that this time around, the fight will deliver on the hype. The fighters’ combined experience and the historical

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/24/2026