Manny Pacquiao has made it clear that his long-awaited rematch with Floyd Mayweather Jr. will be a professional bout, pushing back against Mayweather’s recent remarks calling it “an exhibition.”

Over the weekend, Mayweather suggested the September fight would be more of a showcase than a competitive contest, even drawing comparisons to his exhibition with Mike Tyson.

Pacquiao, however, stressed that the fight is fully sanctioned and contractual terms ensure it will be a legitimate matchup.

“From the beginning, my intention has been to give the fans what they truly want to see — a high-level, competitive sanctioned fight,” Pacquiao said. “I want to be very clear: this is not an exhibition; it is a real fight.”

The bout serves as a sequel to their 2015 clash, in which Mayweather won a unanimous decision. Mayweather enters the ring undefeated at 50-0 with 27 knockouts, while Pacquiao, 47, carries a 62-8-3 record with 39 knockouts.

Pacquiao returned to the ring in 2025 with a strong performance against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, earning a draw that showcased his enduring competitiveness.

He now aims to challenge Mayweather once again.