In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, reports are swirling that undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather Jr. and eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao are in early discussions for a blockbuster rematch set for 2026, potentially streamed exclusively on Netflix. The news, broken by boxing insider Mike Coppinger, harks back to one of the most anticipated fights in sports history and promises to draw massive global attention to the streaming giant’s growing foray into live combat sports.
The original “Fight of the Century” between Mayweather and Pacquiao took place on May 2, 2015, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, generating a staggering $400 million in pay-per-view revenue and captivating over 4.6 million households. Mayweather, then 38, edged out a split-decision victory over the 36-year-old Pacquiao in a tactical masterclass that left fans divided and clamoring for more. A decade later, with both fighters well into their late 40s—Mayweather turning 49 in February 2026 and Pacquiao 47 in December—the prospect of a sequel raises eyebrows about ring rust, health risks, and pure spectacle.
Sources close to the negotiations indicate that Netflix, fresh off its successful broadcasts of high-profile MMA and boxing events like the Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul exhibition in November 2024, is aggressively pursuing the bout as a marquee addition to its combat sports portfolio. “This is being explored as another Netflix boxing event,” Coppinger reported, noting that preliminary talks have focused on logistics, purse splits, and a potential venue in the Middle East or Asia to maximize international viewership. The platform’s model of no paywall could make this rematch accessible to millions, potentially shattering streaming records.
Pacquiao, who last fought WBA welterweight champion Mario Barrios to a Draw in 2025, has been vocal about his desire for one more high-stakes outing. The Filipino senator and philanthropist, known as “Pac-Man,” recently teased a return to the ring without specifying an opponent, fueling speculation. Mayweather, 48 and retired since 2017 but undefeated at 50-0, has kept his hand in the sport through lucrative exhibitions against YouTubers and influencers, including a 2023 win over John Gotti III. Insiders suggest the financial incentives—estimated in the nine figures for each fighter—could be the ultimate lure, turning this into what some critics are already dubbing a “lucrative cash grab” for two aging icons.
While no official announcement has been made, the buzz has ignited fervent debate across social media and boxing forums. Fans nostalgic for the prime-era rivalry are thrilled at the chance for redemption, with Pacquiao’s southpaw power pitted against Mayweather’s defensive wizardry once more. Detractors, however, question the wisdom of such a matchup at their advanced ages, citing potential health concerns and the dilution of boxing’s competitive integrity through exhibition-style bouts.
Netflix’s interest aligns with its aggressive expansion in live sports, following the Tyson-Paul spectacle that drew 108 million viewers worldwide. A Mayweather-Pacquiao II could serve as the crown jewel, blending nostalgia with the platform’s tech-savvy audience. As talks progress, all eyes are on whether these two titans can align on terms and deliver a fight worthy of their legacy—or if this remains just another tantalizing “what if” in boxing’s storied history.
