Pacquiao and Mayweather Set for April Exhibition Tests Before Historic September Rematch
Before the highly anticipated September 2026 rematch between boxing icons Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., both legends will engage in separate April exhibition bouts that could significantly influence the buildup to their long-awaited clash in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao's April Challenge Against Provodnikov
Manny Pacquiao, the 47-year-old Filipino boxing legend and the only eight-division champion in boxing history, is scheduled to face former world champion Ruslan Provodnikov in a 10-round exhibition match on April 8. This fight follows Pacquiao's return from retirement in July, when he challenged WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios and fought to a majority draw.
The April exhibition provides Pacquiao with another crucial opportunity to refine his timing and improve his conditioning ahead of the September 19 rematch against Mayweather at the innovative Sphere venue in Las Vegas. Pacquiao has openly expressed his desire to alter the outcome of their 2015 encounter, where he lost by unanimous decision in what was famously billed as the "Fight of the Century."
Mayweather's Exhibition Against Mike Tyson
Floyd Mayweather Jr., who recently celebrated his 49th birthday, will step into the ring against former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson on April 15. Despite retiring with an undefeated professional record of 50-0, Mayweather has continued to participate in exhibition events, maintaining his presence in the boxing world.
In a confident statement regarding the September rematch, Mayweather declared, "I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result." His April bout against Tyson, while not carrying championship stakes, serves as a valuable measuring stick for his current form and preparation.
The Historic September 19 Rematch at the Sphere
The September 19 showdown between Pacquiao and Mayweather, occurring more than a decade after their first legendary encounter, will mark the first professional boxing event ever staged at the Sphere in Las Vegas. This groundbreaking venue promises a unique spectacle for fans worldwide.
Notably, their 2015 fight at the MGM Grand remains the highest-grossing bout in boxing history, generating unprecedented revenue and global attention. The 2026 rematch is expected to build on this legacy, with the event being streamed globally on Netflix, potentially reaching millions of viewers across the planet.
While neither April exhibition carries official championship stakes, both bouts are strategically important. They offer Pacquiao and Mayweather critical opportunities to assess their skills, make necessary adjustments, and build momentum leading into what promises to be another historic chapter in their storied rivalry.
