Manny Pacquiao makes Floyd Mayweather record threat as rematch announcement reignites rivalry

Manny Pacquiao has vowed to prove his credentials as a boxing legend by snatching Floyd Mayweather’s undefeated 50-0 record.

Boxing icons Mayweather and Pacquiao sent the boxing world into complete pandemonium by announcing they will meet in a historic rematch on September 19.

Getty

The sequel will take place eleven years after their famous meeting, the most lucrative bout of the 21st century, which saw Mayweather edge a points victory.

Now it will be the first boxing fight held in Las Vegas’ venue The Sphere, and their iconic rivalry is set to heat up once again.

And the first ominous threats have already been fired by both fighters, who despite settling their differences, are likely to now reopen old wounds.

When announcing their stunning second battle, Pacquiao was first to up the ante.

He warned Mayweather: “I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him.”

Pacquiao then later added to Boxing Scene: “I’m very excited for the rematch. This is my moment to prove it.

“I know I can improve my strategy this time. It’s the pressure from the fans: How can he claim he’s the GOAT (greatest of all time).

“In an analysis of the categories of boxing history, in which one can he say he’s the only one?

“He’s not the only one to retire undefeated.” 

Mayweather had little to say, but when breaking his silence on the announcement, he simply vowed it would be the same outcome.

Getty

The verbal barbs are likely to continue to gather pace in the coming weeks.

Mayweather vs Pacquiao – why is the rematch happening?

Pacquiao’s return to full professional fighting has clearly been enough to coax his bitter rival back into the squared circle to risk his record.

Mayweather had only ever fought in exhibitions prior, but the pressure along with a mega financial purse has been enough to persuade the undefeated legend.

The Filipino legend performed very well in his full comeback, being unfortunate to draw with Mario Barrios in their WBC 147lbs world title clash last July.

And he certainly fancy his chances of scuppering the American’s unblemished professional record, given Mayweather hasn’t fought in a sanctioned bout since beating Conor McGregor in 2017.

Both fighters are also set to return in separate exhibitions, in what makes for an exciting pre-fight narrative.

Mayweather will return in a bizarre bout with heavyweight veteran Mike Tyson in April, which will headline in Congo.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao will take on Ruslan Provodnikov in a Las Vegas return, which will stoke the fire with the US watching public.