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Pacquiao’s Alternatives To Mayweather

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Oct 31, 2025 2:27 AM ET

Following talks of a Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao rematch, we look at who the Filipino could box in his next mega fight.

Pacquiao reversed his retirement at 46 in July to fight for the WBC Welterweight Title, thus securing a majority draw with Mario Barrios. His next fight is on January 24, 2026, subject to an opponent. Manny has addressed the names being linked.

“There’s a lot of negotiations about it now… classic world event, real fight, and exhibition. At the end of the day, we will announce it probably next year. Right now, I can say that there’s an ongoing negotiation with Floyd, but if they never do the negotiation with Floyd, then we will announce it. Vasyl Lomachenko. It’s hard to say, but Lomachenko, if he thinks that negotiations are going to work. Oh yes, that’s possible also, with Conor McGregor. It depends on how I get to the fight I want to shut his mouth,” Pacquiao said

Options

Pacquiao could face Conor McGregor, a major crossover that was first linked in 2020. McGregor, despite focusing on the UFC White House card in June 2026, represents a massive financial opportunity. This guarantees a massive payday, replicating the financial success of McGregor’s 2017 bout with Floyd Mayweather. It offers the highest purse with arguably the lowest boxing risk among elite names. Reports indicate that Mayweather earned over $200 million for the McGregor fight, with the Irishman getting $100 million, showing the magnitude of the event.

Pacquiao also touched upon the recently retired Vasiliy Lomachenko. “Loma” retired in June but could return for a one-off event. This is the ultimate technical legacy fight, as both fighters are viewed as all-time great southpaws. While Lomachenko is a lightweight (135 lbs), he could move up to 140 pounds or more for a one-off fight.

The most practical names come from the welterweight division. Conor Benn is aiming to drop back down to welterweight (147 lbs) after campaigning at 154 and 160 pounds for his last few fights, including his upcoming rematch with Chris Eubank Jr. Benn needs a huge, established name to validate his return to the welterweight elite, and a fight against Pacquiao, especially one that could be held in the UK, provides massive exposure for Benn.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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