Manny Pacquiao eyed for rematch by previous opponent in ‘big payday’ after Floyd Mayweather clash

Keith Thurman wants to face Manny Pacquiao next if he beats Sebastian Fundora this weekend.

Thurman will continue his return when he takes on towering giant Fundora for his WBC super-welterweight title this Saturday night.

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The American veteran is looking to become a two-weight world champion and upset the odds, in what would complete a remarkable comeback.

Victory could set up some huge clashes imminently in the latter stages of 2026.

And ‘One Time’ wants to step in the ring with Filipino legend Pacquiao for a second time, and hopes to lure him into a clash with his world title.

“If the Pacquiao rematch came up I’d never say no to a good fight, a good contract and a good payday,” he said during a media huddle.

“There is so many possibilities for what is next, I don’t know if he’d fight at this weight.

“But for me that would be enticing regardless, it is a redemption fight.

“I just wish we fought 15 rounds like the old champions used to when we fought before.

“So yeah I’d probably sign that contract, for sure.”

Thurman is an underdog in the clash against Fundora, who has lost just once to Brian Mendoza in 2023.

He could also still explore the rematch even in defeat, and could look to drop to his previous division of 147lbs.

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Pacquiao got the better of him when they met in 2019, but Thurman will hope he is the fresher and could get the job done if they shared the ring again.

A huge year ahead for Pacquiao

Despite the potential lure of a future clash with Thurman, Pacquiao has big plans for 2026.

It is expected he will now face Ruslan Provodnikov in an exhibition in June, with the bout set to be rescheduled.

But the huge outing will come in a lucrative rematch with long-term foe Floyd Mayweather in September from Las Vegas.

The original 2015 bout was the biggest of the 21st century and the second event is promising to be boxing’s grandest this year.

Mayweather is expected to risk his perfect 50-0 professional record, and his legendary rival wants to get his redemption and deliver that hammer blow.

Boxing schedule

For all the upcoming fights and results this year, check out talkSPORT.com’s  boxing schedule.