Menu

Search

  |   Sports

Menu

  |   Sports

Search

Manny Pacquiao vs Errol Spence? WBC/IBF welterweight champ says Filipino boxing icon would be the ‘perfect opponent’

Manny Pacquiao in the official Pacquiao vs. Broner preview trailer | Photo credit: SHOWTIME Sports / YouTube screenshot

Boxing fans rooting for a Manny Pacquiao vs. Errol Spence Jr. fight in 2020 would be delighted to know what both fighters have said about each other. More recently, Spence said the Filipino boxing icon would be a “perfect opponent” for him.

Manny Pacquiao: Spence eyes Pac Man for his anticipated return

The return of both Pacquiao and Spence in 2020 are some of the most anticipated events in boxing this year. This is especially true for the latter after he was involved in a serious car accident last October while driving his Ferrari in Dallas. He was later charged with DWI, but did not suffer major injuries and has recovered since.

Looking forward to his next fight, Spence got his eyes on Pacquiao, even calling the veteran boxer a “perfect opponent” in a recent Instagram Live video through the Premiere Boxing Champions page. It appears the Spence was more convinced in wanting to fight Pacquiao after seeing his latest fight against Keith Thurman last summer from which he won the WBA (Super) welterweight title. “My goal is to be undisputed welterweight champion of the world, so I have to fight [Pacquiao] to get one of those belts,” Spence said (via ESPN).

Like many analysts and fans, Spence was surprised at Pacquiao’s shape during his fight with Thurman. Most people thought being in his 40s will slow down the eight-division champion, not to mention he has so many other priorities now, such as being an elected Senator in the Philippines.

"I didn't think he was going to look that good,” Spence added. “I would love to fight Pacquiao, he's a future legend, he's a Hall of Famer."

Pacquiao feels the same way and has previously named Spence as one of his top 2 choices as his potential opponent, along with Mikey Garcia. Admiring Spence’s abilities in the ring, Pac Man previously said he would have to work on his speed and footwork if he would be up against Spence.

Manny Pacquiao: When is his next fight?

The 41-year-old boxer has mentioned he wants to fight in July, but that just became even more tentative now with the COVID-19 pandemic. The need to maintain social distancing to slow down the spread of the virus might postpone Pacquiao’s timeline of preparations, which should be a couple of months ahead of his intended fight.

Interestingly, Spence also mentioned about wanting to return to the ring in July or August. But that might be moved to September or October considering the pandemic as well.

  • Market Data
Close

Welcome to EconoTimes

Sign up for daily updates for the most important
stories unfolding in the global economy.