Pacquiao: Mayweather scared to lose

MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao yesterday stressed he’s agreed to everything Floyd Mayweather Jr. wants just to get in the ring with him, including the May 2 date that the unbeaten American fighter had demanded, the 60/40 split in prize money and the random drug test.

Still, Mayweather remains elusive and continues to refuse to sign on the dotted line and finalize what is seen to be the richest boxing match.

Pacquiao can only think of one reason: Mayweather is avoiding him like a plague.

“Well, right now, I believe that (Mayweather is ducking me),” the Filipino icon said in an interview with Sam Alipour of ESPN The Magazine.

Pressed for a reason for his theory, Pacquiao responded: “I don’t know. Maybe he’s scared to lose.”

Pacquiao is in the US to promote his upcoming documentary titled “Manny,” and the interview with ESPN was part of his press tour. He is giving Mayweather until the end of the month to fulfill his end of the bargain and give his signature.

“We’re waiting for the signed contract from them. Me and my promoter, we both agree to the terms and conditions. Whatever he wants, we agreed to that already. We’re just waiting for the signed contract,” he explained.

Conversely, Mayweather claimed there is still a long way to go in the talks, instead blaming Pacquiao’s promoter Top Rank for being a hindrance in the negotiations.

Pacquiao disputes his rival’s statement, saying Mayweather’s just making excuses.

“You know, first, before, his reason was drug testing. But he knows that’s not a problem before. I already agreed to whatever his terms and conditions. He’s just making that alibi, to make a reason to avoid the fight,” Pacquiao countered.

The General Santos City-based southpaw was then asked about his 3-to-1 underdog status in a bout with Mayweather. He isn’t bothered by that.

“It’s good. When I fought Oscar De La Hoya, it was 8-1. If I’m favored, I’m very confident and not focused. If I’m underdog, it’s like 200 percent focus in training,” Pacquiao added.

So does this mean  he’s guaranteeing a victory over Mayweather, currently considered as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the planet?