Now that Manny Pacquiao has passed his first test as a fighter under the Premier Boxing Champions banner, 40-year-old future Hall of Famer has his sights on a big payday.
It's no secret that Pacquiao wants a rematch against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in what would likely be one of the biggest fights of the year. But there's no guarantee that such a fight would even happen given that Mayweather is currently retired and according to Leonard Ellerbe, that's not going to change. As such, Pacquiao could have to look elsewhere for his next fight, but there's at least one welterweight star that would love a shot at Pacquiao: Keith Thurman.
Although Thurman, the WBA "Super" welterweight champion, is busy with his next title defense on January 26 against Josesito Lopez, the undefeated welterweight is certainly interested in making that fight possible. On a recent media conference call, Thurman was asked by Fightful about his thoughts on going one-on-one with the eight-division champion and Thurman said he realizes where Pacquiao's interests lie in regards to his next fight, but would still love a shot against him anyway.
"It does interest me. I just know he's interested in fighting Mayweather again. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to understand how much money they're going to generate, even if they were to generate half the income that they did last time. Some people believe that people don't want to see it. But I tend to find out people watch what's on TV. So it's interesting. I would love an opportunity to fight a legend such as Manny Pacquiao. I've never had the opportunity to negotiate any fights against Floyd Mayweather. So if I was ever given such an opportunity, it would be an honor and I would definitely take it," Thurman said.
A fight between the two is certainly doable, given how both fighters are not only members of the PBC roster, but also WBA champions at 147 pounds. While Thurman is the governing body's "Super" champion at 147 pounds, Pacquiao is the current "Regular" champion and recently defended his title on January 19 when he defeated Adrien Broner.
Thurman's comments about a potential fight against Pacquiao can be seen in the video above as well as Thurman's feelings regarding the welterweight division in the aftermath of his 22-month absence from boxing due to multiple injuries.
