Manny Pacquiao has countered Floyd Mayweather’s claims, asserting that their highly anticipated September rematch is a fully sanctioned professional bout rather than a mere exhibition.

MANILA, April 2 — Manny Pacquiao clarified today that his September rematch with Floyd Mayweather is a sanctioned professional bout, contradicting Mayweather’s recent claims that the fight would be a non-competitive exhibition.

Scheduled for September 19 at the Las Vegas Sphere, the event follows their record-breaking 2015 clash. Mayweather recently told *Vegas Sports Today* the bout was merely for entertainment, stating both would be "winners."

Pacquiao firmly rejected this in a statement to AFP, asserting the signed contract is for a legitimate professional match. He emphasized his goal is to provide fans with a high-level, sanctioned competition.

The Filipino legend noted the initial announcement accurately reflected the fight's professional status. He added that his camp expects the original terms of the agreement to be fully upheld by all parties involved.

Jas Mathur, CEO of Manny Pacquiao Promotions, told *ESPN* that Mayweather’s comments constitute a breach of contract. However, he reassured the public that the fight will still proceed as planned. — AFP