Mike Tyson seems to have been coldly overlooked as rumors circulate that Floyd Mayweather is in talks to face off against rival Manny Pacquiao for a second time.
The potential showdown is being suggested for a Netflix special next year. Pacquiao ended a four-year professional break in July, coming back with a draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
As for Mayweather, ‘Money’ retired from professional boxing in 2017 after defeating former dual-weight UFC champion Conor McGregor. However, the American has since entered the world of exhibition boxing and has faced opponents such as Logan Paul, Deji, and Aaron Chalmers.
His last appearance in the ring was against John Gotti III in August 2024, but he has hinted at a return to the ring in recent months.
Mayweather was rumored to be fighting Mike Tyson next spring; however, no date or venue was announced, raising doubts about whether the bout would actually happen. It now appears that the heavyweight veteran could be overlooked as the Ring revealed that discussions are underway regarding a potential rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao.
The sequel would occur over 10 years from their initial match-up – dubbed the ‘fight of the century.’ After months of anticipation, Mayweather went on to cruise to a unanimous decision victory in Las Vegas – extending his undefeated record to 48-0.
With talks apparently in progress for a Netflix bout, it will further validate the streaming platform’s choice to enter the realm of live sports, especially boxing. The streaming powerhouse – boasting over 300 million subscribers – entered the boxing arena last November with Tyson’s clash against Jake Paul.
Just months afterward, Katie Taylor’s trilogy battle with Amanda Serrano was streamed live on Netflix. So was Terence Crawford’s landmark victory over Canelo Alvarez back in September.
The fourth is scheduled to arrive next month with an exhibition bout between Paul and Gervonta Davis.
In a recent conversation with The Sun, IBA Pro’s Director General Al Siesta addressed a possible rematch between Mayweather and Pacquiao, stating: “I think he’s got some fight in him still and if he wants to fight, we will endorse that. We are welcoming Floyd Mayweather against Manny Pacquiao at IBA Pro. We will be delighted and honoured to stage the fight.”
Earlier this month, Pacquiao had teased yet another shocking comeback to the ring next year. In a clip posted to social media, he announced: “Hello to all my boxing fans. I’m excited to let you know that I will be returning to the ring January 24th in Las Vegas. It is going to be an exciting and special event. Stay tuned, more news to come on my opponent in the next few days. Thank you everyone.”
