Manny Pacquiao has revealed exactly why he believes Floyd Mayweather is avoiding facing him in a professional bout this year.
It was announced back in February that the legendary duo would be locking horns for the second time, a sanctioned professional contest that is due to take place at The Sphere in Las Vegas on Saturday September 19.
Whilst it had been initially speculated that their rematch would be an exhibition, it was later confirmed that it would be a professional bout, meaning that Mayweather would be expected to put his unblemished 50-0 record on the line.
‘Money’ came out on top when they fought back in May of 2015, defeating the Filipino superstar via unanimous decision to unify the WBC, WBA and WBO world welterweight titles at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
Speaking on the Inside The Ring Show, Pacquiao said that he believes Mayweather is ‘scared of losing’ amid speculation that the American great is attempting to change the conditions of the rematch.
“I think he’s scared of losing. I mean, he’s scared of losing because that’s his, you know, his leverage for, to go around and have exhibitions because of his undefeated record. But if that record [is] ruined then what else that he can leverage for, to go around and have an exhibition match?”
While the fight with Pacquiao is up in the air, Mayweather had also been in line to face former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in an exhibition clash this spring, but the fight is now doubtful after no further updates have been provided in recent weeks.
Instead, the 49-year-old from Michigan looks set to face Greek kickboxer Mike Zambidis in an exhibition this June, as he prepares to make his first ring appearance since he fought John Gotti III back in August of 2024.
