Manny Pacquiao’s next opponent is risking a multi-million-dollar fine
Manny Pacquiao is set to make a significant return to boxing this weekend in Tokyo with the Japanese MMA promotion Rizin.
The 45-year-old Filipino legend will fight Rukiya Anpo, 28, a former K-1 Kickboxing champion, in a boxing-only match.
This fight includes a substantial financial penalty for any rule violations. If Anpo breaks the boxing rules by using illegal strikes such as a kick, he will face a five-million-dollar penalty. This clause mirrors the one used in Floyd Mayweather’s exhibitions with Rizin.
What was Mayweather’s experience with Rizin like?
Floyd Mayweather, 47, had two exhibition bouts with Rizin against martial artists, winning both by knockout.
In 2018, he defeated kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa, 25, with a contract that included a penalty for illegal moves.
Confirmed penalties by Rizin president
Rizin president Nobuyuki Sakakibara confirmed the penalty clause in the Pacquiao-Anpo deal.
“Any violation will be punishable by a fine,” Sakakibara declared.
There is also the need to factor in the weakness of the Yen in comparison to the dollar and pound at this moment, and the fine in Yen would equate to 750 million Yen.
Pacquiao’s return and future prospects
Pacquiao retired in 2021 after losing to Yordenis Ugas but has since participated in an exhibition match, hinting at a potential comeback.
He has been linked to fights with UFC star Conor McGregor, 36, and undefeated British boxer Conor Benn, 27. Recently, the WBC expressed willingness to sanction a fight between Pacquiao and world champion Mario Barrios, 29. Pacquiao’s upcoming exhibition in the Far East is seen as preparation for this possible welterweight title shot.
However, there are those who feel this isn’t appropriate practice for a return to competitive boxing and that Pacquiao’s time at the top of the sport is very much in the past.
