Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquiao 2 appears to be back on track after a key contractual obstacle was removed, reopening the possibility of a long-discussed rematch.
A fresh update from FightHype indicated that the so-called “Cancer Contract” clause is being taken out of the agreement as terms are adjusted behind the scenes.
The development represents the clearest sign yet that negotiations are moving forward after weeks of conflicting statements regarding whether the event would be a professional bout or an exhibition.
Contract breakthrough
Confusion had surrounded the structure of the fight, particularly after Manny Pacquiao publicly insisted the contest must be a fully sanctioned professional bout, warning it would be a “real fight or nothing.”
That stance appeared to clash with Floyd Mayweather, who initially described the event as an exhibition when addressing media in Las Vegas last month.
Mayweather made his first remarks on the possible rematch during that appearance, surprising many by downplaying the bout as a showcase rather than a competitive contest.
The clause had effectively stalled progress, becoming one of the more unusual sticking points in a deal already filled with contradictions over whether the fight would count professionally or serve as another exhibition.
The amendments, yet to be made public, now clear a path that had previously looked blocked.
Power dynamic shift
It’s not unusual for Mayweather to take that stance when a deal develops without him leading the announcement. The former five-weight world champion has typically controlled negotiations throughout his career.
Why that dynamic appears to have changed isn’t entirely clear, with Pacquiao and CEO Jas Mathur now driving discussions around a potential multi-million dollar agreement with Netflix.
Mayweather is expected to command a significant eight-figure purse if the deal is finalized. However, nothing is set in stone until he addresses the situation publicly.
The fact that FightHype — a platform long associated with Mayweather — has acknowledged movement on the contract adds weight to the idea that the fight is moving again.
However, FightHype had previously suggested the event was off entirely.
Divided boxing reaction
The renewed momentum comes against a backdrop of mixed opinions across the sport.
Former opponent Andre Berto, who discussed Mayweather’s comeback and the potential rematch in a recent exclusive interview with World Boxing News, believes the fight would carry real intrigue, particularly if Mayweather is willing to risk his unbeaten record.
“If he is going to put that record up… that’s something that everyone is going to want to watch,” Berto said, pointing to the importance of stakes in separating a genuine contest from an exhibition.
Trainer Bob Santos also backed the idea of a second meeting, describing the matchup as “better late than never” given the enduring appeal of both fighters.
However, not everyone is convinced. Veteran coach Abel Sanchez previously dismissed the concept, stating the fight “makes no sense” and holds little sporting relevance at this stage of their careers.
Stakes remain unclear
At the center of the uncertainty remains the question that has followed the fight from the beginning — whether Mayweather’s perfect 50-0 record would be placed on the line.
Pacquiao’s insistence on a professional bout has continued to fuel that debate, raising the possibility that the rematch could carry genuine competitive consequences rather than serving as a high-profile exhibition.
For now, the removal of the contractual obstacle marks a significant step forward.
Whether it ultimately leads to Mayweather officially confirming the fight — and under what terms — may not stay unresolved for much longer.
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
