Mayweather Says Pacquiao Rematch Is Now An Exhibition

Floyd Mayweather Jr. says his upcoming rematch with Manny Pacquiao will be an exhibition rather than a professional contest.

The 49-year-old Mayweather contradicted the February 23 Netflix announcement that the bout will be his first sanctioned professional fight since 2017. Just five weeks ago, the rematch was marketed as the "first-ever professional boxing match at The Sphere," with Pacquiao publicly vowing to "give Floyd the one loss on his record."

Mayweather appears committed to a 2026 "Exhibition World Tour" instead of a competitive return. He confirmed he also has exhibition bouts planned with Mike Tyson (reportedly in the Congo) and kickboxer Mike Zambidis in Greece. By labeling the Pacquiao rematch an exhibition, Mayweather’s perfect 50-0 professional record remains untouched, regardless of the outcome on September 19.

Mayweather Reacts

Mayweather indicated that the location—originally announced as The Sphere in Las Vegas—is still subject to change. Netflix has not issued a statement regarding the reclassification of the bout as of yet. The streaming giant had previously used the "professional rematch" status as a key selling point for its 325 million global subscribers.

"The Sphere is one of the places that they talked about, so we don’t know if it’s 100% going to be there. It’s not actually a fight, it’s an exhibition. We’re going to do it again and hopefully entertain the people. “I got an exhibition with Mike Tyson also, another exhibition in Greece. If I’m just sitting at home and working out everyday and spending time with my grandson and children, I said why not go out, have a little fun, entertain and have some exhibitions," Mayweather said

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