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Punishment for breaking the rules
Manny Pacquiao is set to make a comeback to the ring in Tokyo this weekend, facing former K-1 Kickboxing champion Rukiya Anpo in a boxing rules bout. The deal includes a hefty $5m (£3.9m) penalty if either fighter breaks the rules by throwing a kick.
Strict rules in place
Rizin president Nobuyuki Sakakibara confirmed the strict rules, stating that any violation would result in a $5 million fine. This clause is similar to the one in Floyd Mayweather's exhibition bouts with Rizin, where any illegal strikes incurred financial penalties.
Preparing for a title shot
After retiring in 2021, Pacquiao is eyeing a comeback and has been linked to potential fights with UFC star Conor McGregor and British boxer Conor Benn. Talks are also in progress for Pacquiao to face world champion Mario Barrios for a welterweight title shot, using his Far East exhibition as preparation.
