Pacquiao-Horn rematch off due to scheduling conflict – report

MANILA, Philippines – If Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Horn do fight again, it won’t be until at least 2018. 

According to multiple reports out of Australia, the boxing senator Pacquiao has withdrawn from consideration for a second bout on November 12 in Brisbane, Australia due to conflicts with his schedule. 

In their first fight this past July, Horn won a unanimous decision over Pacquiao to lift the WBO welterweight title at Suncorp Stadium. 

Queensland state premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says she was informed by Pacquiao’s camp that he “will have other commitments at that time” but that the government remains committed to financing Horn’s title defense against an opponent to be named.

“I am advised Mr Pacquiao, who is also a Senator of the Philippines, will have other commitments at that time. Whoever the challenger is, my Government will help arrange the meeting because it will be good news for Queensland,” says Palaszczuk, who adds that the first fight on July 2 provided a $25 million boost to the local economy. 

Duco Events confirmed the development in a statement but did not speculate on a replacement for November 12. 

“Pacquiao is committed to fighting again in 2018 and a rematch with Jeff Horn for the WBO welterweight title,” read a statement from Horn’s promoter Duco Events. “Until then, Top Rank, Duco Promotions, TEQ (Tourism and Events Queensland) and Brisbane Marketing will be exploring options. 

Emails to Horn’s manager Glenn Rushton and Pacquiao’s adviser Michael Koncz were not immediately responded to. – Rappler.com