HBO’s Larry Merchant speaks about Pacquiao vs. Mayweather possibilities – Boxing News
HBO’s Larry Merchant showed up on ESPN’s ‘First Take’ earlier today, speaking about the possibilities of a fight between unbeaten American fighter Floyd Mayweather and Filipino fight sensation Manny Pacquiao. According to Merchant, the only reason why the
two fighters have not clashed yet is the financial aspect.
“What’s stood in the way of a big Mayweather/Pacquiao fight taking place up to this point is a financial disincentive for both men,” said Larry Merchant, one of the best boxing commentators out there. “Both fighters are already making 40 and 50 million dollars
a year fighting lower risk opposition. There’s no financial urgency to make this fight happen. This is a business as well as a sport.”
It should be noted here that fans are desperate to see the WBC welterweight titlist Mayweather take on former WBO welterweight titlist Manny Pacquiao. However, it has been three years since both the camps are trying to come to a deal. Every year, something
or the other hinders the way and the fight falls off. Earlier this year, both fighters were in direct contact to make the fight happen, but nothing worked out.
According to Pacquiao, Mayweather wants the entire pay-per-view proceedings, offering the Filipino just $40 million as flat fee. For Pacquiao, it was an embarrassment as he believes he is equally popular as Mayweather.
“Mayweather thinks he can defeat Manny Pacquiao, and he would be the favorite leading into that fight should it ever take place. But what Mayweather is more afraid of than anything is getting that ‘L’ on his record,” Merchant adds.
Merchant further asserted that Mayweather has always marketed himself as the unbeaten and invincible fighter, which is why he is afraid of having a loss in his portfolio. However, Merchant believes that being defeated should not be a major issue for Mayweather,
as every famous fighter has suffered losses in his career.
For now, Merchant is of the view that Mayweather should keep his fears aside and fight Pacquiao, as fans want this fight more than anything.
According to Top Rank’s Bob Arum, both fighters might clash next year in April.
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