April Fools? Mayweather a no-show at Resorts World presser

MANILA, Philippines – What was supposed to be a 3 p.m. media appearance by Floyd Mayweather Jr. at Resorts World Manila turned out to be a long, tedious wait for members of the press.

Mediamen had gathered at the Grand Bar of the five-star hotel as early as 2 p.m. Tuesday in the hope of squeezing the latest from Mayweather.

But minutes turned into hours, and a few more. There was no sign of the 40-year-old boxing legend.

Word was that Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao was also due. However, no one could confirm his arrival.

An announcement at 7 p.m. said Mayweather, who arrived in the country last Sunday for a short vacation, was on his way to the hotel from a previous engagement proved false.

Mayweather was in Makati in the afternoon for a session with top dermatologist Vicki Belo. Then he went shopping at Greenbelt 5.

By 9 p.m., another announcement was made, saying Mayweather “had deviated” from what was previously announced.

Someone who had access to the Mayweather circle told The STAR that instead of proceeding to Resorts World, from Makati, he went to Mall of Asia.

“MOA to eat,” the source said.

Immediately after, another announcement, this time by from the hotel’s PR department, thanking the mediamen for their patience.

They begged for their indulgence.

A little past 11 p.m. came the final verdict, from Joee Guilas, director of corporate communications of Resorts World.

“We’re very sorry. Mr. Floyd Mayweather is no longer coming to the press conference,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we cannot make that happen today. Our apologies,” he told the audience.

For whatever reason, Floyd was a no-show.