After pulling Mike Tyson out of mothballs to fight Jake Paul, Netflix is again dipping into boxing nostalgia for a rematch between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquaio on September 19.
The duo last fought over a decade ago in what was dubbed The Fight of the Century. It wasn’t. Mayweather outpointed Pacquiao fairly easily in a 12 round decision that showcased the former’s defensive skills. Now the fighters are 48 and 47 years old, respectively.
The rematch is a savvy move for Netflix as it looks to put its stamp on the live events space. While the fight itself likely won’t be much, the event itself should be something.
The first fight generated a record 4.6 million pay-per-view buys. The event also set a world-record live gate of $72 million at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
This time around, Netflix promises to make Mayweather-Pacquiao 2 a cultural event by streaming it live globally to its 325+ million subscribers at no additional cost. (The streamer can be sure of record sub growth in the Philippines.)
What’s more, in stead of the MGM Grand, the bout will take place at The Sphere. “The production will utilize the venue’s advanced technologies to provide fans with an immersive experience unlike any other in boxing history,” reads a Netflix release.
Pacquiao said in a statement, “Floyd and I gave the world what remains the biggest fight in boxing history. The fans have waited long enough — they deserve this rematch, and it will be even bigger now that it will be streamed live globally on Netflix. I want Floyd to live with the one loss on his professional record and always remember who gave it to him. As always, I dedicate this fight to my fellow Filipinos around the world and to bringing glory to the Philippines.”
Mayweather, whose record is 50-0 was more succinct. “I already fought and beat Manny once. This time will be the same result.”
Gabe Spitzer, Vice President of Sports at Netflix, said, “Earlier in my career, I spent weeks in Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao‘s training camps in Las Vegas and the Philippines. It was undeniable that they were the two hardest workers in boxing, and their wins and accolades were a product of that. Bringing this rematch to Netflix is a massive ‘full-circle’ moment. We’re thrilled to combine their storied rivalry with the immersive technology of Sphere to deliver a landmark sporting event to our members worldwide.”