Manny Pacquiao takes offense at Mayweather's downplaying of the rematch

That Manny Pacquiao lost to Floyd Mayweather on May 2, 2015, is one of his biggest career disappointments. Imagine then how well he received the news that a rematch is not only possible but also locked in, and he will be squaring up against Mayweather once again in a chance to vindicate himself.

The fight has been set for September 19, 2026, at the Sphere in Las Vegas, and Netflix is once again securing the broadcasting rights. But now Pacquiao feels robbed of the opportunity, as his opponent appears to be much more relaxed and laid-back about the upcoming event. It’s an exhibition bout, Mayweather recently remarked, causing distress to the Filipino opponent, who takes matters far more seriously. Following Mayweather’s comments about the fight, Pacquiao stated his own, arguing that the fight was anything but showmanship, and it was going to be a real bout between two challengers. Pacquiao has put it in plain terms: Is that what he’s feeling? But he signed a real contract. Yes, the contract that we signed is a real fight. I wouldn’t fight an exhibition. He has to remember that. Yet, the demoralizing effect on the fighter is clear - how to fight for payback when your opponent is simply dismissing the whole thing as a charade? Mayweather, though, has participated in other fights following his retirement, and he has used the same framing.

The undefeated pugilist has reaped the fruit of his unblemished career and has not really found it worthwhile to try anything else to prove, focusing on exhibition fights instead. Right now, observers are speculating that the two sides may walk away from the fight if the fight turns out to be too much of a point of pride for Pacquiao. There are many reasons for this to happen. The Filipino is clearly looking for the opportunity to prove his mettle, but his opponent may have put his competitive days behind him, leading to a conflicting message overall. Of course, Pacquaio may participate as can Mayweather, but they both may interpret events as they see fit in the end.