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Bob Arum: Manny Pacquiao would fight Conor McGregor

By Jake Goldstein-Street

April 9, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Timothy Bradley (left) reacts as he is punched by Manny Pacquiao at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
April 9, 2016; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Timothy Bradley (left) reacts as he is punched by Manny Pacquiao at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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If a fight between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather can’t come to fruition, then Manny Pacquiao could be the next option.

Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor seems to be an all or nothing boxing-MMA showdown.

But maybe not.

Boxing promoter Bob Arum says that Manny Pacquiao would fight Conor McGregor if Mayweather doesn’t, per TMZ Sports:

"“If McGregor is still looking for an opponent, Manny Pacquiao is there.”"

The McGregor and Mayweather camps have been having trouble agreeing to terms for months. However, Dana White says the MMA fighter’s side of the fight is complete. On TNT after Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, White noted that he’s “starting to work on the Mayweather side.”

Additionally, McGregor talked to TheMacLife.com on finishing his end of the deal:

"“The first and most important part of this historic contract has now officially been signed off on. Congratulations to all parties involved. We now await [Mayweather adviser] Al Haymon and his boxer’s signature in the coming days.”"

It has now been more than a week since Conor McGregor signed his end of the deal and no news of a Mayweather agreement has come. Mayweather is coming out of retirement to fight the outspoken MMA competitor. This would be the retired boxer’s first fight since his win against Andre Berto in September 2015.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao has a fight of his own against Jeff Horn on July 1, so replacing Mayweather would force another delay. Although, his schedule is wide open following the bout.

Next: 30 little-known facts about Conor McGregor

The long awaited match between McGregor and Mayweather has been facing constant hurdles. For example, on Thursday, the World Boxing Association announced it would not sanction the fight.

Fans are hoping for a cross-sport showdown between each side’s most outspoken fighter. Manny Pacquiao would not be a huge drop in terms of talent, but there is no doubt that the current fight is much more polarizing. At least the fight wouldn’t be scrapped altogether.

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