In a tweet Friday, McGregor, the former two-division UFC World Champion, said he's "boxing Manny Pacquiao next in the Middle East."
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ESPN reported that McGregor is in "serious talks" to fight Pacquiao, citing his manager, Audie Attar, who represents both fighters. Attar told ESPN the bout wasn't a done deal, but the Middle East was one of a few locations being considered to host the match, which would take place in late December or early January. A weight class has not been determined, Attar said.
UFC star Conor McGregor makes 3rd retirement announcement in 4 years
UFC star Conor McGregor announces his retirement from fighting
Additionally, Pacquiao's aide Jayke Joson told ESPN that a portion of Pacquiao's earnings from the match would go toward Covid-19 relief efforts in the Philippines. Pacquiao is also a Philippine senator.
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McGregor expressed interest in fighting Pacquiao in Las Vegas earlier this year. He previously faced another boxing legend, Floyd Mayweather Jr., in 2017, losing after a stoppage in the 10th round.
After his initial tweet Friday about facing Pacquiao, McGregor said in a second tweet, in part, "It will be a true honour to have faced two of the greatest boxers of the modern era."