Manny Pacquiao’s Instagram post hints at ‘real boxing match’ with Conor McGregor

Conor McGregor might - just might - be stepping into the ring for another high-profile boxing match in the not-too-distant future.

The UFC superstar made his professional debut in the sport in August, taking on Floyd Mayweather - one of boxing's all-time greats - in Las Vegas. Though Mayweather eventually claimed victory via TKO that night, the Irishman hardly disgraced himself, lasting until the tenth round.

McGregor is yet to reveal his plans regarding his next fight, though a friendly Instagram post from Manny Pacquiao appears to have left the door open for a sooner-than-expected return to the boxing ring.

Pacquiao, now 38, shared a picture of McGregor and wished him a happy Thanksgiving. He followed this with the hashtags #realboxingmatch and #2018, knowing full well what kind of reaction it would prompt.

 

Happy Thanksgiving! Stay fit my friend. #realboxingmatch #2018 @thenotoriousmma

A post shared by Manny Pacquiao (@mannypacquiao) on Nov 23, 2017 at 5:09am PST

Pacquiao's last fight came in July, when he lost to Australian Jeff Horn. Talk of a November rematch was cooled by Pacquiao, who explained this would interfere with his role as a Filipino senator. Seemingly, such responsibilities might not get in the way of a bout with McGregor.