New 2023 to the sounds of night air defense,
knocking down rockets and drones of two terrorist allied countries over Kiev, Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao (62-8-2, 39 KO) opens on vRINGe. The 44-year-old fighter signed a contract with the Japanese Rizin Mixed Martial Arts League and will take part in another demonstration fight this season.
As writes
boxing scenemaking a surprise appearance at Rizin FF 40’s show Saitama Super Arena in Saitama, the champion of eight divisions said that he would have a Japanese opponent, but who is still a secret.
“I was here as a guest a few months ago and I have a very interesting announcement tonight,” Pacquiao said. – I agreed with “Rizin” about the fight next year. The date will be announced soon, as well as my opponent, who will be chosen by “Rizin”. And I am open and happy to fight a Japanese fighter. Thanks”.
When promotion president Nobuyuki Sakakibara asked Pac-Man if he was open to “any” Japanese opponent, Pac-Man replied, “Any opponent from Japan.”
Pacquiao could have his next fight in Papua New Guinea. There is rival
Recall that Manny retired from official sports in 2021 after losing on points to Yordenis Ugas in order to focus on the Philippine presidential elections (he lost them). He returned to the ring in December 2022, but in an exhibition performance: he “fought” with the South Korean mixed martial arts fighter DK Yoo.
Manny was asked if a Mayweather-Pacquiao exhibition fight is possible? The boxer-politician said that “let’s finish this obligation to Rizin first, and then we’ll talk about it.” Floyd and Manny fought in May 2015, and the fight ended with a confident victory for the American on points.
In general, Pacquiao “wants to test” Spence and Crawford. The first refused.