Mayweather vs. Pacquiao in Jeopardy

Depending on whom you want to believe the mega-fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao could be on life support if not dead. Hard to believe when there is an 80 million dollar purse at stake and one of the gladiators is nicknamed “Money”. Supposed confidential reports began to circulate late Tuesday claiming that the March 13th fight could be in serious jeopardy if Team Pacquiao did not agree to Olympic Style testing which includes urine and blood sampling. Typical Olympic Style testing consists of 3-5 blood draws and 8-10 urine samples over a 10 week period.

Bob Arum, the promoter of Manny Pacquiao had the following to say today: “Let’s be very clear on the real issues we differ on. It’s not about being tested. Manny is onboard with that since it’s such a major concern of Floyd Mayweather, Jr. It’s about who does the testing and the scheduling of the procedures. Manny will submit to as many random urine tests requested. Regarding the blood tests, he will subject himself to three tests; one given in January during the week the fight is formally announced, one thirty days from the fight, no later than February 13, and the final one immediately following the fight, in Manny’s locker room. The major issue related to the testing rests with which independent agency will administer these tests. The United States Anti Doping Agency (USADA) cannot do it because they will not amend its procedures to accommodate the blood testing schedule we have outlined. USADA, under its guidelines, would have the right to administer random blood tests as many times as they want up to weigh-in day and that is ludicrous.”

Could there be underlying cultural differences in the camps? Reports indicate Pacquiao is a very superstitious individual the though of individuals drawing his blood at any time, which he claims could have a health impact while in training camp, is non debatable.

Arum also believed that Mayweather never really wanted this fight and this is purely harassment of Pacquiao.

“I understand Pacquiao not liking having his blood taken because, frankly, I don’t know anyone who really does. But in a fight of this magnitude, I think it is our responsibility to subject ourselves to sportsmanship at the highest level. I have already agreed to the testing and it is a shame that he is not willing to do the same. It leaves me with great doubt as to the level of fairness I would be facing in the ring that night.” Mayweather says.

Freddie Roach, told ESPN.com that their side had no problem with Olympic style testing. “I have no problem with the testing whatsoever,” Roach said then. “They can do whatever kind of drug testing they want. They’re scared of Manny and scared of his power. He’ll pass any test in the world.”

Floyd Mayweather Sr. has always suspected Pacquiao of doping.

“Let’s be very clear on the real issues we differ on. It’s not about being tested,” Arum said. “Manny is on board with that since it’s such a major concern of Floyd Mayweather Jr. It’s about who does the testing and the scheduling of the procedures.
Will this “fight of the century” take place? YES! There is too much money involved for this fight not to happen. There is no doubt that both camps have lines drawn in the sand, but those lines can be quickly erased with one strong gust of wind. Some may argue that Boxing has taken a back seat over the past few years due to the surge of MMA. Many insiders believe that this fight will allow boxing to regain the top spot among combat sports. What better way to do it than to have a mega fight with a lot of drama leading up to the opening bell.

It will be surprising of this fight does not take place. Boxing is already behind on the scorecards late in the 12th round. Could this be the knockout punch?