Arum says he tried to make Mayweather-Pacquiao rematch

MANILA, Philippines – Top Rank Inc. chief Bob Arum revealed that he tried to lure both Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. out of retirement and arrange a rematch between them.

But boxing is out of Mayweather’s mind right now.

In a video interview with Fighthype.com, Arum explained that he held talks with Mayweather’s close adviser Al Haymon about pitting the two superstars again this year. They were hoping to repeat the financial success they had when both fighters took on each other in May last year.

"We tried to make that fight for this year, the rematch, but Al told me that Floyd was happy in his retirement and he had no intention to get back in the ring, at least this year,” the veteran promoter told Fighthype.com.

After defeating Pacquiao in boxing’s richest bout ever, Mayweather fought once more – routing Andre Berto in September 2015 – before calling it quits. Pacquiao followed suit after dominating Timothy Bradley last April, turning his attention to politics.

However, talks about Pacquiao coming back have intensified the past days, with Arum confirming that the Filipino icon is planning to excuse himself from his Senate duties to return to the ring.

Arum even bookmarked November 5 for Pacquiao’s comeback fight, reserving a venue in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao, for his part, immediately denied that he’s eyeing to take a leave of absence from the Senate, insisting that he will prioritize his legislative duties. He said if ever he fights again, it will not be in conflict with his work as a senator.

In the event Pacquiao decides to come back, there are prospective opponents lined up for him, including rising Top Rank star Terence Crawford. But the most lucrative foe for Pacquiao remains to be Mayweather.

 Arum said the ball is now on the undefeated American’s court.

“Until Floyd tells Al Haymon they he wants to come back, we have no sense in talking about a Mayweather fight," said Arum.