Top Rank promoter Bob Arum has denied any animosity between himself and Floyd Mayweather that could potentially be putting a block on a mega-fight in 2014 with rival Manny Pacquiao.
Speaking with USA Today this week, Arum stated that a fight between Mayweather and Pacquiao has to happen for the benefit of boxing fans.
He agrees that the two sides need to get moving with negotiations for any deal.
“If people stop posturing, absolutely, it can happen. It’s stupid if it doesn’t happen. They owe it to the sport,” Arum pointed out.
Bob Arum denies Floyd Mayweather hate
“This idea that Floyd hates me or I hate Floyd is poppycock. Maybe the people around him are saying that. But Floyd and I, and certainly Todd (DuBoef) and Floyd, have always had an excellent relationship.
“These so-called writers say, ‘Well, it can’t happen because Floyd hates Bob Arum.’ Floyd doesn’t hate me like I don’t hate him,” he added.
Rumors, which are no stranger where Mayweather is concerned, are now rife that the pound-for-pound best is nearing an announcement. His next bout is due on May 3 at the MGM Grand.
Most believe that Britain’s Amir Khan will get the nod.
Arum has already confirmed that Pacquiao is to make his next outing in Las Vegas next April. However, in the past, the ‘Pac-man’ has not been flexible enough with his dates to interest Mayweather.
Mayweather, 36, has always wanted to call the shots for any clash, meaning that Pacquiao and Arum would have to be the ones that bend to accommodate the current two-weight world champion.
As Pacquiao attempts to instigate the fight being made, Arum may now have a chance to set up a meeting to discuss the big-money encounter – but only if Mayweather is willing to hold off with any imminent confirmation.
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