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Manny Pacquiao has inked a contract with Rizin and plans to fight Ffor the promotion in 2023.
The 44-year-old boxing legend made an announcement on Saturday that he has signed a contract with Rizin to fight in the organisation in 2023 against an unnamed opponent. Pacquiao addressed the crowd on the ring during the Rizin 40 card at the Saitama Super Arena.
“A few months ago, I was here as a guest and today I have a very exciting announcement tonight,” Pacquiao said. “I have agreed with Rizin to fight next year, the date will soon be announced and also my opponent that Rizin will choose. I’m open and excited to fight a Japanese fighter.”
The partnership between Pacquiao and Rizin comes after Floyd Mayweather collaborated with the promotion on a few separate occasions for highly publicised exhibition fights.
In fact, Pacquiao was present for Mayweather's bout in Rizin, which took place in September and saw the retired boxing champion knock out Mikuru Asakura via TKO in the second round.
When Pacquiao makes his debut with Rizin in2023, he'll want to build on his two victories from those demonstration fights.