WBC Backs Mayweather Vs. Pacquiao Rematch – But Is It Good For Boxing?
WBC President Muarcio Sulamian believes a Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao fight would be good for the sport.
Their 2015 fight is the biggest PPV of all time, selling 4.6 million PPVs. It also produced the biggest live gate of $72 million, showing the mass desire to see that fight. Mayweather won the fight via a unanimous decision, but Manny alleged he had a torn rotator cuff, which hampered him, something he later had surgery for.
Talk of a rematch has surfaced for next year. Pacquiao came out of retirement in July to secure a majority draw against the WBC Welterweight Champion Mario Barrios, while his next fight will be in January, subject to an opponent. Mayweather, who is 48, has not had a pro boxing fight since beating Conor McGregor in 2017. Since then, he has had numerous exhibitions, the latest of which came last year against John Gotti III. While there are concerns over the age, Sulamian is not against the fight.
Instagram: realchicolopez and 3 others
“They are on the same level in terms of age and ability. Manny Pacquiao just fought for the WBC title, so he was very clear and capable. I’m sure they would look at thousands of medical issues to ensure there would be no obstacles for them to get into the ring. If they decide to do it, I do believe it’s good for the sport,” Sulamian said
Implications
Credit: John Locher/AP
The benefit of a Mayweather-Pacquiao rematch is the massive attention and revenue it would provide. This would attract casual fans back to boxing, effectively serving as free promotion for the entire sport. Furthermore, it reinforces the concept of legacy. Pacquiao’s recent majority draw against WBC Champion Mario Barrios at age 46 proves he remains highly capable, and a professional fight—not an exhibition—offers him a legitimate chance to avenge the controversial loss (due to his alleged torn rotator cuff). From a business perspective, the money generated ensures significant paydays for all fighters on the undercard.
Facebook: Boxing TV
The detriment of a rematch is the potential damage to boxing. Their 2015 encounter was already criticized for coming years too late; a 2026 rematch risks being a shadow of what was promised a decade ago. Furthermore, promoting aged bouts, particularly at the championship level, sends a negative message. This can block worthy, in-prime contenders from securing high-profile opportunities. Most critically, the risk of serious injury increases with age; any adverse health event in the ring would be a devastating blow.
Find all the latest boxing news and MMA breaking updates on boxingnews.com.
