Mayweather Vs. Pacquiao 2: Who Really Won?

The Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao rivalry is one of the most talked-about in boxing history. The first fight in 2015 was a massive event, but many fans felt it didn't live up to the hype. For years, there were whispers and hopes for a rematch. Although it never officially happened in the way fans dreamed, understanding the context and aftermath helps us determine 'who really won' in the bigger picture. Guys, let's dive into why a direct rematch never materialized and how both fighters fared afterward, giving us a clearer picture of the ongoing narrative.

The Unfulfilled Rematch: Why Didn't It Happen?

Many boxing fans were left wanting more after the initial Mayweather vs. Pacquiao fight. The fight itself was criticized for not being as exciting as anticipated, with Mayweather's defensive style often being cited as a reason. Moreover, Pacquiao revealed after the fight that he had been dealing with a shoulder injury, which he claimed hampered his performance. This revelation immediately fueled calls for a rematch, with fans and analysts alike eager to see what a fully fit Pacquiao could do against Mayweather. Pacquiao himself was vocal about wanting another shot at Mayweather, believing he could win if he were healthy. He felt he had a point to prove and that the first fight didn't accurately represent his capabilities. Mayweather initially teased the possibility of a rematch, adding to the anticipation. He acknowledged the financial incentives and the public demand, but he also raised concerns about Pacquiao's injury and its potential impact on the fight. However, as time passed, Mayweather's interest in a rematch seemed to wane. Several factors contributed to this shift. First, Mayweather is known for being meticulous about his opponents and timing. He often chooses fights that maximize his chances of winning and minimizing risk. A rematch with a healthy Pacquiao presented a greater challenge than the injured version he had previously faced. Second, Mayweather had other lucrative opportunities on the horizon. He explored fights against different opponents, including MMA fighters, which offered significant financial rewards and broader media attention. These alternative options may have seemed more appealing than revisiting the Pacquiao rivalry. Finally, negotiations between the two camps proved difficult. Disagreements over the purse split, venue, and other logistical details stalled progress. Both fighters had strong opinions about the terms of the fight, and neither was willing to compromise significantly. As a result, the rematch never came to fruition, leaving a sense of disappointment among boxing fans who had hoped to see a definitive resolution to the rivalry. Despite the constant speculation and occasional rumors, Mayweather and Pacquiao never stepped into the ring together again. The unfulfilled rematch remains one of the great 'what ifs' in boxing history.

Mayweather's Post-Fight Career: Riding into the Sunset

Following his victory over Pacquiao in 2015, Floyd Mayweather continued his dominant run in the boxing world. Known for his exceptional defensive skills and strategic approach to fighting, Mayweather solidified his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time. After the Pacquiao fight, Mayweather had a few more notable bouts. In September 2015, he faced Andre Berto, a fight that many considered to be a relatively easy win for Mayweather. He won by unanimous decision, maintaining his undefeated record and WBC and WBA welterweight titles. This fight was promoted as Mayweather's last, and he initially claimed he would retire afterward. However, Mayweather couldn't stay away from the ring for long. In August 2017, he came out of retirement to face Conor McGregor, the famous UFC fighter, in a highly publicized crossover fight. The event drew massive attention from both boxing and MMA fans, generating huge revenues. Mayweather won the fight by TKO in the 10th round, extending his undefeated record to 50-0. This victory was particularly significant, not only because it added to his legacy but also because it was a major financial success. After the McGregor fight, Mayweather officially retired from professional boxing. However, he has since participated in several exhibition matches. These exhibition fights have allowed Mayweather to stay in the public eye and continue to earn substantial amounts of money without the pressure of defending his undefeated record. These exhibition matches have included bouts against kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa in December 2018 and YouTuber Logan Paul in June 2021. These events have been lucrative for Mayweather, demonstrating his continued marketability and appeal. Mayweather's post-Pacquiao career has been marked by strategic decisions that have maintained his undefeated record and significantly increased his wealth. His ability to leverage his fame and boxing skills in both professional fights and exhibition matches has solidified his status as a shrewd businessman and one of the most successful athletes in history. While many fans still debate the circumstances surrounding his win against Pacquiao, Mayweather's subsequent career moves have only enhanced his reputation as a master of the sport and a savvy entrepreneur.

Pacquiao's Post-Fight Career: A Resurgence and Continued Battles

After his loss to Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao faced criticism and doubts about his future in boxing. Many wondered if the shoulder injury he sustained before the fight had permanently affected his performance. However, Pacquiao proved his resilience and determination by embarking on a remarkable resurgence. Following shoulder surgery to repair his injured rotator cuff, Pacquiao returned to the ring in April 2016 against Timothy Bradley Jr. In their third encounter, Pacquiao dominated the fight, knocking down Bradley twice and winning by unanimous decision. This victory not only avenged his previous loss to Bradley but also showed that Pacquiao was still a force to be reckoned with. Pacquiao continued to fight actively over the next few years, taking on a series of challenging opponents. In November 2016, he defeated Jessie Vargas to win the WBO welterweight title, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level even at an advanced age for a boxer. One of the highlights of Pacquiao's post-Mayweather career was his fight against Keith Thurman in July 2019. At 40 years old, Pacquiao defied expectations by defeating the previously undefeated Thurman to win the WBA (Super) welterweight title. This victory was particularly impressive because Pacquiao showcased his speed, power, and experience, outboxing and outworking a much younger opponent. Pacquiao continued to fight into his early forties, remaining a top contender in the welterweight division. His last professional fight was against Yordenis Ugás in August 2021. Pacquiao lost the fight by unanimous decision, but his performance was still commendable given his age and the challenges he faced. After the Ugás fight, Pacquiao announced his retirement from boxing to focus on his political career in the Philippines. Throughout his post-Mayweather career, Pacquiao demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the sport and his remarkable ability to adapt and overcome challenges. His victories over notable opponents like Bradley, Vargas, and Thurman solidified his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time. Despite the loss to Mayweather, Pacquiao's subsequent achievements proved that he remained a top-tier fighter and a true warrior in the ring. Pacquiao's journey from a young, hungry fighter to a seasoned veteran is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for boxing.

So, Who Really Won? The Bigger Picture

When we look at Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 without an actual rematch, determining a winner becomes more about legacy and impact. While Mayweather won the first fight and continued his undefeated streak, his subsequent career moves have been largely about maintaining his wealth and status. His exhibition matches, while lucrative, don't carry the same weight as competitive fights. Pacquiao, on the other hand, used the loss as fuel for a late-career resurgence, proving his mettle against younger opponents and remaining a relevant force in boxing. From a purely competitive standpoint, Pacquiao's post-Mayweather career arguably shows a greater spirit of challenge and determination. He didn't shy away from tough fights and continued to test himself against the best in the division. Mayweather's choices, while financially sound, lacked the same level of competitive risk. Ultimately, 'who won' depends on what you value more: financial success and an undefeated record, or competitive spirit and a willingness to challenge oneself. Many fans would argue that Pacquiao's post-fight career demonstrates a truer champion's heart. Despite the initial loss, he continued to fight with passion and determination, solidifying his place as a boxing legend. Mayweather's legacy is secure, but Pacquiao's journey after the fight tells a compelling story of resilience and perseverance. Therefore, while Mayweather won the battle in 2015, Pacquiao arguably won the war of legacy in the years that followed. His willingness to keep fighting, to keep challenging himself, and to keep entertaining fans is what truly defines a champion. So, in the absence of a rematch, Pacquiao's post-fight career tips the scales in his favor when considering the bigger picture.

In conclusion, even without Mayweather vs. Pacquiao 2 ever happening, examining their careers after their first clash provides a compelling narrative. Mayweather continued his reign of financial success, while Pacquiao demonstrated true grit and a champion's heart. So, who really won? It's up for debate, but Pacquiao's resurgence certainly makes a strong case.