Legendary Boxers Agree to Rematch in Las Vegas

Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao have agreed to a professional rematch of their landmark 2015 “Fight of the Century,” set for Sept. 19 at the Sphere in Las Vegas, the boxing icons announced Monday. The bout will stream live globally on Netflix, marking the first professional boxing event at the immersive venue east of the Las Vegas Strip.

The news ends years of speculation about a second clash between the two legends, who first met on May 2, 2015, at MGM Grand Garden Arena in what became the highest-grossing pay-per-view event in boxing history. Mayweather won by unanimous decision after 12 rounds, improving his record to 49-0, but Pacquiao later claimed a shoulder injury hampered his performance.

Now, more than a decade later, Mayweather, 48, will come out of retirement for the fight, while Pacquiao, 47, continues his active career. The rematch arrives as both fighters remain among the sport’s most recognizable names, with Mayweather having competed in exhibitions since his 2017 retirement and Pacquiao pursuing political ambitions alongside occasional bouts.

Netflix confirmed the event in a statement, describing it as a “highly anticipated rematch” that will leverage the Sphere’s cutting-edge technology for an unprecedented viewing experience. The venue, which opened in 2023, features a massive LED exterior and immersive interior displays, promising a spectacle beyond traditional boxing arenas. Full details on ticketing, undercard and production will be revealed in the coming weeks, according to Netflix.

The agreement follows months of negotiations, with sources telling ESPN’s Andreas Hale that the fight is now official. Mayweather has teased comebacks repeatedly, including a planned exhibition against Mike Tyson, but this marks his return to a sanctioned professional bout. Pacquiao, a former eight-division world champion, last fought professionally in 2021, losing to Yordenis Ugas.

Fans and analysts reacted with a mix of excitement and skepticism. The 2015 fight drew criticism for its lack of action, with Mayweather’s defensive style frustrating Pacquiao’s aggressive approach. Many questioned whether aging fighters could recapture the magic, though the novelty of the Sphere and Netflix’s global reach could drive massive viewership.

“Boxing has been incredible lately, but this is two legends cashing in one more time,” one Reddit user commented on a popular thread. Others praised the matchup for its historical significance, noting it resolves unfinished business from the controversial first encounter.

Mayweather, undefeated in 50 professional fights before exhibitions, has maintained elite conditioning through exhibitions and training. Pacquiao, known for his speed and power, has stayed active in exhibitions and political life in the Philippines.

The Sphere’s selection as host adds intrigue. Unlike traditional venues, it offers 360-degree visuals and haptic seating, potentially enhancing the broadcast. Netflix’s involvement signals a shift toward streaming for major boxing events, following successful live sports streams.

Promoters have not disclosed purse details, but the 2015 fight generated over $400 million in revenue, with both fighters earning nine-figure paydays. Expectations are high for similar financial success, bolstered by Netflix’s subscriber base.

As anticipation builds, the rematch revives one of boxing’s greatest rivalries. Whether it delivers fireworks or echoes the original’s tactical chess match remains to be seen, but the event promises to captivate fans worldwide.