British boxer Conor Benn is in talks to fight Manny Pacquiao in a remarkable summer bout in Saudi Arabia.
The 27-year-old welterweight's career has stalled amid efforts to clear his name after two failed drugs tests in 2022, which saw a grudge match with Chris Eubank Jnr cancelled.
Benn has since fought two low-key fights in the United States and now hopes to take on the 45-year-old boxing legend, who has not been in a fight since losing to Yordenis Ugas in 2021. His last victory came against Keith Thurman in 2019.
Benn and Pacquiao were spotted in Saudi Arabia following the weigh-in for Anthony Joshua's blockbuster fight with Francis Ngannou, amid reports a summer deal could be agreed before the weekend is over.
Speaking to DAZN, promoter Eddie Hearn said: "Listen, we're talking. This is a fight I love. It's a legend of the sport against one of the biggest young lions at 147 pounds."
Pacquiao added: "I believe he can give a good fight. It's been a while since I have fought a young fighter like him and I am excited for that."
Benn said: "It wasn't on my radar. It's idols to rivals and the public demand it and if the public want it the public are going to get it.
"I've not hidden the face that I want to get to 160 or 154 to fight legends of the game. I'll fight any man. I'll fight anyone put in front of me - if the public want it they can get it."
