Darren Barker: We all know exactly why boxing legends are doing it one more time

In his latest exclusive column for DAZN News, Darren Barker gives his thoughts on the money-spinning showdown between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao at the Las Vegas Sphere on September 19.

Money talks for Floyd and Manny

I was there at the MGM Grand in 2015 for the first fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao — and that was five years too late, wasn’t it?

I remember watching it at the time and not thinking it was a bad fight. But I've watched it back since and it wasn't great.

It was one of those that when you're in the arena, you’re thinking that at any minute something is going to happen. But that moment never came.

I understand this rematch for what it is. You know, it's just two ex-fighters, if you like, having a little swansong against one another.

I'd be a little bit concerned if Mayweather was fighting someone younger.

They're both a similar age and equally long in the tooth, so I don't think it should have any impact on the rankings, governing bodies or anything like that. Just let them do it.

If they both want to fight and they're going to make bundles of money, so be it. But I don't have much interest in it, if I'm honest.

I'm a massive fan of them both. But what's it all about?

JOHN GURZINSKI/AFP via Getty Images

Boxing’s a young man's game. That's why I'll accept this fight because they're both older men. But at some point, you've got to let it go.

Mayweather can have a pro fight or two, make as much money as possible — even more money than he's already had — and then sail off into the sunset.

They must surely be content with their achievements. They're two of the greats and have nothing else to prove. They’re two of the best to ever do it.

Some people are driven by money, while some are driven by success. Some miss the limelight, the attention, the admiration from the fans.  

Chris Hyde/Getty Images

When you’ve had all that and retire, you feel like you're losing your identity. Ultimately, it's about finding yourself again.

It’s a short-lived career but you've got to let go sometimes.

I think we all know why they're doing it. They're going to make bundles of money — and then I'd like to think that would be it for them both.  

Floyd will win and I think it will be on points again. It'll be just like the first fight.

Darren Barker was speaking to Gavin Glicksman

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