With news this week that Manny Pacquiao has agreed to Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s proposed terms the likelihood of the two greats of their generation finally going toe to toe in the ring looks greater than ever.
However, even with a date (May 2nd), venue (the MGM Grand Garden), and purse split (60-40 in Mayweather’s favor) agreed upon between the two sides there appears to be one issue remaining that needs to be ironed out before boxing fans can start dreaming of the opening bell.
NOT QUITE THERE
As reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the predicament of who will broadcast the hugely-anticipated fight is yet to be solved.
The two networks involved in negotiations – Showtime, who hold a deal with Floyd Mayweather, and HBO, Manny Pacquiao’s usual partners – are currently working on a solution to the issue that suits both parties but as yet the lucrative PPV rights are still up in the air.
“The two networks have a congenial relationship, but each network has its own financial objectives.” explained Showtime Sports’ executive vice president Stephen Espinoza when discussing the situation as it stands.
