Floyd Mayweather confirms who he will fight before Manny Pacquiao rematch
By Marko Tankosic
SME News Balkan. Floyd Mayweather Jr. is officially stepping back into the ring this summer, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown with Manny Pacquiao later this year. While questions remain about the nature of their rematch, Mayweather has now confirmed his first appearance of 2026.
The undefeated boxing icon announced that he will face Greek combat sports star Mike Zambidis in an exhibition bout on June 27 in Athens, Greece. The announcement, made via Mayweather’s social media, positions the event as a major international spectacle.
“It’s official. June 27 – Athens, Greece. History will be made. I’m stepping in the ring with Mike Zambidis. One night. One stage. An all-out bout you don’t want to miss,” Mayweather stated.
Zambidis, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished kickboxers in Europe, brings a decorated resume in kickboxing but limited experience in professional boxing, with just a single bout in 2019. Despite the disparity in boxing credentials, the matchup is expected to draw global attention due to Mayweather’s enduring star power.
The June exhibition also serves as a crucial tune-up ahead of Mayweather’s proposed clash with Pacquiao, scheduled for September 19 at Sphere in Las Vegas. However, uncertainty continues to surround that event. Mayweather has indicated the bout may be an exhibition, while Pacquiao has publicly maintained it will be a fully sanctioned professional fight.
The conflicting narratives have fueled speculation about whether the rematch will carry official status, adding intrigue to a rivalry that dates back to their record-breaking encounter during the Mayweather vs. Pacquiao in 2015.
In addition to Zambidis, Mayweather had previously been linked to a potential exhibition with Mike Tyson, though no official updates have emerged regarding that bout.
For now, the Athens event offers clarity amid the uncertainty, ensuring Mayweather remains active while fans await confirmation on one of the most talked-about rematches in boxing history.
