Manny Pacquiao will fight former UFC champion Conor McGregor in 2021 to raise money for victims of the coronavirus.
On Friday, McGregor — who sensationally retired in June — claimed he was set to step into the ring with boxing legend Pacquiao in the Middle East next year.
Pacquiao's camp confirmed the bout Saturday, with the Pacquiao's Filipino aide Jayke Joson saying via ESPN: "For the sake of all the Filipino COVID-19 victims, Senator Manny Pacquiao will be fighting UFC superstar Conor McGregor next year.
"The huge portion of his earnings will proceed to those who are affected nationwide by the pandemic."
McGregor, who has not fought since his win over Donald Cerrone in January, lost to unbeaten boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. in August 2017.
Pacquiao (62-7-2) fought twice last year, winning the WBA (Super) welterweight title by beating Keith Thurman in July 2019.