Boxing promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank has been very vocal during the last few days in relation to the quickly ensuing end game relating to negotiations for a fight between Floyd Mayweather Junior and Manny Pacquiao.
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In comments to Lem Satterfield of AOL Fanhouse, Arum stated, “I can tell you that I don’t think this is going to be strung out for too much longer…it will be resolved one way or the other.”
Boxing fans across the world sit on the edge of their computer chairs, reading every available update on the potential fight of the Century, this writer believes that in the absence of a Mayweather – Pacquiao fight, one fighter has more options for future fights and a greater legacy than others.
Pacquiao has stated that November, 2010 will be his boxing swan song and if Floyd Mayweather does not want to dance with the Filipino warrior, Arum has already lined up previous Pacquiao flunky Miguel Cotto and enigmatic Mexican slugger Antonio Margarito for Pacman’s last hurrah.
A bout with Cotto, or Margarito, does not stir the emotions nor imaginations of boxing fans. Ending his career with either one of these man would be a stale final note for Pacquiao.
As for Mayweather, the depth of competition in the welterweight division could keep him busy for a few years and add serious depth to his resume. If Pacquiao passes Mayweather by, or vice versa, “Money” could scrap with young lions Andre Berto or Paul Williams, or both in the next twelve months.
Tax man still knocking on Mayweather’s door? How about a last hurrah against Amir Khan or Saul Alvarez, or both in 2012?
If we never see Pacquiao and Mayweather in a ring together, settling the score over who is the best, Mayweather has the pieces in place to further extend his legacy and win a mythical debate on the backs of Williams, Berto, Khan, and Alvarez.
