Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will face off once again, announcing a much-anticipated rematch set for September 19, 2024, at the Sphere in Las Vegas. The event will stream globally on Netflix, marking a significant moment in boxing history as it brings together two of the sport’s greatest icons nearly a decade after their first encounter.
The announcement follows Mayweather’s return from retirement after his exhibition match against Mike Tyson in 2026. He has secured a multi-fight deal with CSI Sports and Fight Sports, signaling his commitment to reignite his boxing career. Pacquiao, who returned to the ring in July 2023 against former WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, is also scheduled for an exhibition match against Ruslan Provodnikov on April 18, 2024, in Las Vegas.
Returning Legends Set the Stage
Details regarding the weight class and the number of rounds for their rematch are yet to be disclosed. The event will be produced by EverWonder Studio, Hidden Empire, and Limitless X Holdings, with promotional efforts being handled by Manny Pacquiao Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in collaboration with CSI Sports and Fight Sports.
Their first fight, which took place on May 2, 2015, was a historic event, achieving 4.6 million pay-per-view buys, generating $410 million in revenue, and raking in $72.2 million in ticket sales. Mayweather emerged victorious by unanimous decision, a memory he reflects on with confidence. “I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result,” he stated, underscoring his belief in maintaining his undefeated record.
With Mayweather set to turn 49 on February 24, 2024, he retired at the age of 40 after securing a flawless 50-0 record against Conor McGregor in 2017. Since then, he has participated in several exhibition bouts, including matches against Logan Paul and John Gotti III.
Pacquiao’s Drive for Redemption
Manny Pacquiao, now 47, initially retired following a loss to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. His return to the ring is fueled by his desire for another shot at Mayweather, as he expressed in a recent statement: “The fans have waited long enough; they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix. I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him.”
While the fight may not reach traditional pay-per-view records, the global reach of Netflix, with over 325 million subscribers, presents an opportunity for significant viewership. Gabe Spitzer, Netflix’s Vice President of Sports, described the matchup as a “massive full-circle moment,” highlighting the unique experience that the Sphere will provide for the audience. This venue will host its first boxing event, adding to the excitement of the occasion.
As fans anticipate this rematch, the return of two legendary figures promises to reignite the fervor of boxing enthusiasts around the world. With both fighters eager to assert their dominance, the September showdown at the Sphere is set to be a remarkable chapter in boxing history.
