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| Bob Arum |
MANILA, Philippines - Top Rank chief Bob Arum turned 80 yesterday and spoke of the fights he remembers most, and the one he wants to happen next.
Arum talked to the American press on his birthday, and faced, among many others, the big question everybody’s been begging for an answer.
Will the Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather fight happen?
“We have not resumed the Pacquiao-Mayweather negotiation yet, though I believe Pacquiao-Mayweather fight will happen because it would be very, very stupid for it not to happen,” he said.
Arum, far younger that what the calendar says, told the Examiner.com said he’s been in touch with potential investors for the fight that should break all existing records in the sport.
He also told USA Today he expects something to come up before the year ends. He should be in Manila for Pacquiao’s birthday bash on Dec. 17, and hopefully something comes up.
“I’ll tell you the truth. My guy (Pacquiao) wants that fight. He really wants that fight. I want that fight. And I want it to happen next. I believe Floyd wants that fight to happen,” Arum said.
“Now how it happens, how we go about doing it, that’s a little difficult. The difference in personalities between Manny and Floyd is just tremendous. Hopefully, we’ll be able before the new year to bridge that gap and make that fight happen.”
There may be some animosity left between Arum and Golden Boy Promotions big boss Oscar dela Hoya, and the latter had said Pacquiao vs Mayweather isn’t happening because of Arum.
“The only one who doesn’t want the fight is Bob Arum,” said dela Hoya.
It’s quite hard to believe if you listen to Arum, who said his stepson, Todd duBeof, now Top Rank president, will play a key role in the negotiations.
“And I think there’s an example where Todd, who’s a lot nearer their ages, and a lot calmer than me, will play a major role,” he said.
Pacquiao said a few nights ago that there’s nothing definite regarding his next fight, and it could be one against Mayweather, Juan Manuel Marquez or Tim Bradley.
But prior to that he said negotiations are already on regarding a Mayweather fight.
Mayweather said there’s nothing on the table.
http://www.philstar.com/sportsarticle.aspx?articleid=756946&publicationsubcategoryid=69
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