Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather Looking For Next Welterweight Opponents In 2014

In a three-week span, both Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather picked up their first wins of 2014. Pacquiao defeated Timothy Bradley in a unanimous decision, while Mayweather beat Marcos Maidana.

While a potential mega-fight between the boxers is often talked about, one won’t happen any time soon. Still, the two fighters are looking to have another bout this year, but are currently without opponents.

Several boxers are looking to take on one of the two stars, but only a few have a realistic chance.

Mayweather’s Next Opponent

Marcos Maidana: He gave Mayweather his toughest fight in the last few years, and he’s called for a rematch following his narrow defeat. Mayweather has indicated that he’d be willing to agree to a rematch, though a second fight wouldn’t likely be as competitive as the first.

Danny Garcia: The undefeated boxer is signed to Golden Boy Promotions, so it makes sense for the two to eventually meet in the ring. He’s 28-0 with 16 knockouts, and could be the best available option. He recently regained his light welterweight title, and would have to gain about seven pounds to meet Mayweather at welterweight.

Pacquiao’s Next Opponent

Juan Manuel Marquez: The two boxers have already faced off four times, but each fight has been an exciting battle. Marquez has only gotten the better of PacMan once, but he knocked out the 35-year-old in their most recent matchup. A win for Marquez over Mike Alvarado on May 17 would all but guarantee him a rematch against his chief rival.

Mike Alvarado: The 33-year-old has lost two of his last three fights, but all he needs is one victory to face one of the biggest names in the sport. Top Rank’s Bob Arum has said that the winner of the Alvarado-Marquez matchup will meet Pacquiao, and Alvarado is only a slight underdog in the upcoming bout.

Longshot Opponents

Amir Khan: A decisive victory over Luis Collazo should be enough to warrant Khan a fight with Mayweather. However, Mayweather is determined to fight in September, and Khan won’t be ready to again until later in 2014, because of Ramadan in July.

Adrien Broner: He called out Pacquiao after his recent win over Carlos Molina, but the same post-fight interview got him temporarily suspended by the WBC. He’ll likely need another win against quality competition, before getting a shot at PacMan.