Manny Pacquiao would turn down a $35 million payday to fight Jake Paul.
Pacquiao’s team has made it clear: there’s zero interest in facing the social media star. The eight-division world champion is plotting his return for March 2026 and is weighing a slate of potential opponents.
Right now, WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero is considered the most likely challenger for Pacquiao, with talks seemingly centering on a major-money showdown with the former boxing icon. Pacquiao has even signaled openness to a lucrative rematch with Floyd Mayweather, though that idea remains on the table as a second potential big-money affair.
Throwback note: Jake Paul’s reported $39 million “dream purchase” from his Tyson purse continues to spark chatter in boxing circles.
Pacquiao versus Paul: a matchup that won’t happen, according to Pacquiao’s representative. Sean Gibbons, Pacquiao’s advisor, says money alone wouldn’t seal the deal for this pairing. Pacquiao wants opponents who are more closely matched in size and skill, not a challenger who carries a substantial weight disadvantage.
“Pacquiao isn’t like other fighters,” Gibbons told Betway. “He’s a true competitor who fights for meaningful reasons. Even a $35 million offer wouldn’t persuade him, because he’s focused on legitimate challenges in his weight class, not spectacle fights.”
Size discrepancy is a real obstacle: Pacquiao fought at around 147 pounds, while Paul has spent much of his career closer to 200 pounds. That gap makes a fight between them unlikely in Pacquiao’s eyes.
If Pacquiao does step into the ring again, it’s more probable he’ll meet opponents like Ryan Garcia or Gervonta Davis—top talents who align with his legacy and the level of competition he seeks.
Pacquiao has also weighed in on Paul’s current project, offering a few pointed words of guidance ahead of Paul’s upcoming bout with Anthony Joshua. When asked about the hypothetical Paul–Joshua clash, Pacquiao emphasized the importance of serious preparation and discipline, remarking that even an exhibition bout wouldn’t adequately reflect Paul’s potential if he doesn’t commit to rigorous training.
While fans debate Paul’s chances in heavyweight territory, Pacquiao remains focused on meaningful battles that fit his size and skill. What do you think about the idea of future crossovers versus traditional, evenly matched showdowns? Is there a space for high-profile exhibition-style events, or should marquee fights always prioritize competition over spectacle? Share your perspective in the comments.
