Throw Manny a Broner before Money rematch?

Adrien Broner’s name has been floated as Manny Pacquiao’s next possible foe. But that doesn’t rule out the blockbuster rematch against Floyd Mayweather Jr. In fact, it is shaping up to be a teaser of sorts.

Multiple websites reported that the Filipino boxing great will take on Mayweather’s Promotions top fighter for his next outing, any time between December this year and Jan. 19 next year.

The fight is being pegged as an appetizer for Pacquiao-Mayweather 2, with the undefeated American star also penciled for a separate bout before the rematch against the Filipino ring icon.

Showtime president Stephen Espinoza was quoted by the sun.co.uk as saying that “I do think we will be seeing the rematch, Mayweather-Pacquiao in short order. I understand people doubted it because of the way it was announced so to speak.”

Espinoza added: “Floyd is taking advantage of an opportunity in marketing and the way he markets things, 2019 sounds perfect. That way I get a little sleep after this event then we go to Mayweather-Pacquiao 2 right away.”

Pacquiao could face Broner in the United States after matchmaker Sean Gibbons reportedly said Pacquiao’s previous tax issues in the United States are already being addressed.

Website blacksportsonline.com said Broner was initially thought to be Mayweather’s tune-up foe but is more likely to face Pacquiao either with Showtime or Fox as broadcasters.