Pacquiao ‘extends’ McGregor challenge

Manny Pacquiao. AFP FILE PHOTO

Manny Pacquiao just let out a subtle invitation for Conor McGregor to fight him next year.

On Thursday afternoon, the Fighting Senator posted on his Instagram account.

“Happy Thanksgiving! Stay fit my friend. #realboxingmatch #2018 @thenotoriousmma,” read the message, which was written below a picture of McGregor looking relaxed sitting on a sofa.

Pacquiao hasn’t fought since losing the World Boxing Organization to Australian Jeff Horn in Brisbane last July, opting to bypass a rematch clause to concentrate on his legislative duties in the Philippines.

McGregor also hasn’t fought since bowing to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a megabuck boxing bout last August.

With a fight against the mixed martial arts superstar sure to bring in oodles of money, even boxing Hall of Famer Oscar De La Hoya has hinted he’s going to come out of a seven-year retirement to tangle with the Irishman.

Though he’s a certified billionaire, Pacquiao is still hoping to land one or two lucrative fights before hanging up his gloves. And McGregor is at the top of the pay scale. —ROY LUARCA