Could Manny Pacquiao really defeat Floyd Mayweather the second time around, 11 years after their first encounter?
It’s a question boxing fans thought they might never have to consider, but in 2026, Mayweather-Pacquiao II could become a reality.
Last month, Pacquiao confirmed he is open to a rematch, adding that “there’s an ongoing negotiation.”
The eight-division world champion ended a four-year absence from the ring with a credible draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios. Many observers felt the 46-year-old did enough to claim victory.
Former Pacquiao opponent Tim Bradley –– who fought “Pac-Man” three times between 2012 and 2016, recording one win and two losses –– shared his thoughts on a potential rematch with Mayweather in an interview with FightHype.
“Manny went in the ring with a young gun [and] got a draw. Many people thought that he won the fight against Barrios. Barrios is no easy task, man. And Manny was able to go in there and do what he did against Barrios.
“Mayweather’s already shown that he can beat Manny Pacquiao. I feel Mayweather still today, with his age, he still will serve and beat Manny Pacquiao.”
Bradley described their first fight as a “dud,” but explained why Mayweather, even at 48, could still overcome ‘Pac-Man.’
“It’s Mayweather’s style. The way he’s able to maintain his distance, fight on the outside, and keep Manny reaching while countering him on the way in.”
Bradley isn’t the only one to make their feelings known on the potential rematch, with a former world champion who took on both men also weighing in with his thoughts.