Former world champion Ruslan Provodnikov hopeful of fighting Manny Pacquiao in June

Boxing fans around the world are once again fixated on one of the sport’s most iconic rivalries, as renewed reports continue to circulate about a potential rematch between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao—nearly a decade after their blockbuster first meeting in 2015.

Multiple online announcements, some attributed to streaming giant Netflix, have fueled speculation that the two boxing legends are being lined up to face each other on September 19 in Las Vegas (September 20 in the Philippines). Reports suggest the bout could take place at the state-of-the-art Sphere Las Vegas, a venue known for its cutting-edge immersive design and never before used for a professional boxing event.

If finalized, the event would mark a historic first for the sport, with boxing staged inside one of the most technologically advanced arenas in the world. The spectacle is already being described as a potential global entertainment milestone, combining nostalgia, star power, and innovation in live sports presentation.

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Netflix is also reportedly set to broadcast the event exclusively worldwide, continuing its aggressive expansion into live sports programming. In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), the platform described the proposed matchup as a “landmark moment” for boxing, bringing together two of the most recognizable and commercially influential fighters of the modern era on an unprecedented stage.

The renewed buzz around Mayweather–Pacquiao has reignited global debate over what would be one of the most anticipated rematches in boxing history. Their first encounter in May 2015 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas remains one of the highest-grossing fights of all time, despite criticism over its lack of action and Pacquiao’s shoulder injury at the time.

Provodnikov questions what’s left in Mayweather vs Pacquiao 2 👀

Still backs Pacquiao despite timing doubts 🥊

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— World Boxing News (@WorldBoxingNews) April 23, 2026

While negotiations and preparations for the potential rematch continue to develop, attention has also turned to other fighters seeking opportunities tied to Pacquiao’s return.

Ruslan Provodnikov, a former World Boxing Organization light-welterweight and welterweight champion, has expressed his continued desire to face Pacquiao in the ring before any potential clash with Mayweather materializes.

Provodnikov, widely known for his relentless fighting style and nickname “The Siberian Rocky,” was originally scheduled to face Pacquiao last Saturday in what would have been a notable comeback bout for both fighters. However, the matchup was ultimately postponed, leaving uncertainty over whether it will be rescheduled in the near future.

“It’s disappointing that the fight won’t take place in April, but I’m hopeful it will happen in June. I really hope so, and I believe it. We have prepared everything. As soon as they give the go-ahead, I will pack my bag and be ready to fly to America with my team,” Provodnikov said in a media interaction.

The Russian slugger retired from professional boxing in 2016 with a record of 25–5, including 18 knockouts, leaving behind a reputation as one of the most aggressive and fan-friendly fighters of his generation. His brief return to the conversation highlights the continued appetite for nostalgic matchups involving boxing’s biggest names from the past decade.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao’s camp is reportedly keen on keeping the Filipino icon active in a professional setting ahead of any potential showdown with Mayweather, further intensifying speculation about how his return to high-profile competition will unfold.

As discussions continue behind the scenes, the possibility of Mayweather vs. Pacquiao II—especially in a groundbreaking venue like the Sphere—remains one of the most closely watched developments in global sports. If it comes to fruition, it would not only revive one of boxing’s greatest rivalries but also potentially redefine how major combat sports events are staged and consumed worldwide.

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