By Mark Vester

Former five-division champion Floyd Mayweateher Jr. is taking the first step in a possible return to the sport in 2009. Mayweather has not fought since a December 07 knockout of Ricky Hatton and announced his retirement from boxing a few months ago. Since the night Manny Pacquiao knocked out Oscar De La Hoya on December 6, rumors were flying that Mayweather was planning to return to the ring for possible bout with Pacquiao, and most recently there were heavy rumors that Mayweather's team approached Hatton's attorney with a rematch offer. A few days ago - Leonard Ellerbe, Mayweather's adviser and close friend, spoke out and said the rumors were all false.

With the news that a Pacquiao vs. Hatton bout is close to a done deal for May 2 in Las Vegas, Mayweather has instructed Ellerbe to entertain any and all offers for a possible 2009 return. It marks the first time that Mayweather is even willing to hear any possible fight offers since his retirement announcement. If the offer is good enough, Floyd is willing to consider a return to the ring.

"Everybody's talking about Floyd, so he gave the word to see what's out there and if it's something he's interested in, we'd consider it. That's not saying he's going to do anything, just that he said, 'See what's out there.' The bottom line is, since all this is going on, Floyd has given me pretty clear instructions to evaluate whatever's offered, and if it's something worthwhile, he'll consider it," Ellerbe told boxing scribe David Mayo.

While no talks have taken place yet, Ellerbe told Mayo that he's already received calls on Friday and they will to negotiations for possible opportunities in 2009 

"I've gotten calls today that are probably going to lead to that. Mr. Mayweather's name has been ringing like Christmas bells everywhere. Every conversation we see is Floyd, Floyd, Floyd. With Floyd being out of boxing, these guys are using his name to elevate their names and their positions. So Floyd gave instructions to find out what their positions are," Ellerbe said.

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