‘I’ll be back’ – Floyd Mayweather to fight in Japan again after Mikuru Asakura KO with Manny Pacquaio rematch teased
FLOYD MAYWEATHER confirmed he will fight in Japan again – amid talk of a rematch with Manny Pacquaio.
Pacquiao, famously beaten beaten by Mayweather in 2015, watched ringside as his old rival knocked out Mikuru Asakura in two rounds.
The boxing legend, who doubled his tally of exhibition wins in Japan, then revealed plans to return in the Far East again.
He said: “I’m happy that we were able to give fans excitement tonight. Thanks for having me. I will be back.”
Mayweather, 45, floored Asakura, 30, right at the end of the second round with a sharp right hand.
The southpaw MMA star made it to his feet but on wobbly legs, leaving referee Kenny Bayless with no choice but to halt the action.
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Mayweather addressed the fans in the Saitama Super Arena and hailed his front row rival.
He said: “Round of applause to my team, I want to thank you guys. Another unbelievable experience.
“Another legend right here, eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao. Great champion. Unbelievable world champion.
“I’m just happy to be here, thanks again.”
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Pacquiao entered the ring to embrace Mayweather and then hinted that he could fight in Japan himself.
He said: “Thank you so much for this opportunity. I witnessed a good exhibition and good promotion with RIZIN.
“Thank you for the chance and I hope this is not the last one.”
Pacquiao, 43, retired from boxing last year after defeat to Yordenis Ugas, 35.
But following a failed presidential campaign in the Philippines, he has been linked with a comeback.
Pacquaio already has two exhibitions lined up, against Korean YouTuber DK Yoo and ex-sparring partner Jaber Zayani.
Whereas Mayweather has had four exhibition bouts since retiring professionally in 2017 after beating UFC superstar Conor McGregor, 34.
The pair of boxing icons came face to face once again in the Far East at a press conference and traded words.
Afterwards, Pacquiao’s business partner Sean Gibbons insisted they would accept a rematch with Mayweather.
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Gibbons said: “Let’s go. Would love to see it but Mayweather wants none of this smoke due to his ego.
“Senator Pacquiao would love an exhibition. If he was to return it would be this year, but that is a big if.”
