Although boxing fans are clamoring for a big fight to happen between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao after the latter's convincing win against Chris Algieri on November 22, people may actually get to watch two mega-bouts.
American Floyd Mayweather has two fights remaining in a six-fight deal with CBS/Showtime reportedly valued at $250 million. In a report by Digital Journal, the undefeated champion may use both to face the Filipino superstar, raking in the biggest paychecks of his life. After Mayweather defeated Marcos Maidana twice, he said that Pacquiao has to earn a shot against him by defeating Algieri. Pacquiao decimated the New Yorker on Saturday with six knockdowns, showing that he is indeed a worthy opponent.
Leslie Moonves, CEO of CBS/Showtime reportedly discussed matters with Bob Arum, Pacquiao's promoter, based on the same Digital Journal Report. Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach allegedly initiated the conversation between the two CEOs. For years, Mayweather has been evading a fight against Pacquiao but Moonves might be the controlling factor that will finally persuade the American to indulge, considering Moonves' political and financial power.
Arum said in a report by USA Today that he does not trust Mayweather but he trusts Les Moonves. He said, "For the head of CBS to spend that much time on something would be counter-productive."
The most viable option for two opposing networks, Showtime which presents Mayweather and HBO which presents Pacquiao, would be to arrange a co-promotion for the blockbuster bout, similar to how the Mike Tyson-Lennox Lewis match was made possible in 2002. The fight is expected to be the biggest in boxing history, reaching the $1 billion mark especially if Arum successfully taps the Chinese pay-per-view market.
Arum said in a Daily Mail article, "Enough is enough. Let's do this. All it needs now is for them to make the call. Me and Manny are waiting to pick up the phone."
If a Mayweather-Pacquiao fight should happen, it will most likely be slated on June 2015. It is also very likely that a rematch will occur, compelling Mayweather to use his sixth fight in the Showtime contract against the same opponent.
In the same report by Daily Mail, should a fight commence between the two superstars, Mayweather is said to be demanding a rematch clause in the contract in the event that he loses. Freddie Roach said, "My understanding is that Floyd is insisting on the re-match if Manny beats him, which I believe he will. That's okay with us."
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