Floyd Mayweather Says He's Open to Rematch With Manny Pacquiao
Floyd Mayweather emerged victorious at the Fight of the Century over the weekend, beating Manny Pacquiao on a points decision last Saturday, May 2. Since the bout at the MGM Grand, it was revealed that the Filipino boxer had a shoulder injury that required surgery. Now, Mayweather says that he is willing to fight Pacquiao again after his shoulder heals.
"I will fight him in a year after his surgery," Mayweather told ESPN reporter Stephen A. Smith in a text message. The undefeated boxer has previously said that he would fight one more time in September before retiring from the sport. One more win would take Mayweather to 49 wins, equal to that of legendary unbeaten heavyweight champ Rocky Marciano.
Meanwhile, Pacquiao is happy to enter into a rematch with Mayweather after his shoulder injury, said his promoter Bob Arum.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Arum admitted that although it was an attritional negotiation between the Pacquiao/Top Rank/HBO and Mayweather/Showtime camps for the May 2 fight, he believes that they could reach an agreement for a rematch.
"I think we now know what the pitfalls are," Arum told ESPN. "And ultimately, with all the aggravation and trouble, look at the pot of gold that we both produced. I think there will probably be less aggravation in a rematch. We understand each other better now. There's a real possibility it could even work better."
Arum also suggested that Mayweather forgo a September fight and simply wait for Pacquiao and fight him in April, which is when the MGM reportedly plans to open a 20,000-seat arena in Las Vegas.
"I think the wisest course of action is for Floyd to wait," said Arum.
