Sports fans have been eagerly waiting to hear about Manny Pacquiao’s return to the ring since other big names in boxing already have fights set in the first quarter of 2020. The wait might be worth it in Pacquiao’s case as UFC star-turned-professional boxer Conor McGregor has been added to the list of possible opponents for the boxing icon.
Manny Pacquiao vs. Conor McGregor: Is it even possible?
Pacquiao’s camp has been promising fans that the athlete-politician will certainly set a boxing match early this year. But without an opponent set yet, the possibilities are endless, and McGregor’s name is the recent addition to the list.
Reports on the possible McGregor and Pacquiao fight started from a recent interview of the Irish fighter. He confirmed his team has been in negotiations to set up a bout with the WBA (Super) welterweight titlist. The UFC star revealed to ESPN’s Ariel Helwani, “I would be open to other boxing bouts. You know, Manny (Pacquiao). We’re actually close to signing Manny.”
As exciting as this may sound, it might be best for fans not to get their hopes up yet. While Pacquiao’s camp has confirmed he will soon return to the ring, they have not decided on who he is going to fight next. There is also no indication if they are actually close to choosing an opponent. When asked to comment about McGregor’s statement, MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons only said, “Looking at all possibilities.”
On the bright side, Pacquiao appears to maintain his initial plan to return to the ring in spring. In an interview with Philippine publication Manila Bulletin, Gibbons reiterated they have been “working hard” on organizing the Senator’s next bout sometime in April. There is no definitive update on his opponent, but Gibbons promised that the fans would know by Jan. 20 if Pacquiao’s next fight would be in the Middle East.
Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather Jr. 2: What’s the latest update?
There is no denying that fans are most excited about the chance of seeing a Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. rematch. And, obviously, that seems to be what the Philippine champ wants, too. Even though the Olympic medalist announced he is coming out of retirement, it remains unclear what his plans are for his professional fighting career.
The most obvious possibility is for him to return to the ring, but there are also rumors that he might venture into professional mixed martial arts under the UFC. However, as for Mayweather’s supposed rematch with Pacquiao, a deal might still be a longshot.
