By Edward Chaykovsky
Top Rank's CEO Bob Arum is not convinced that Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26KOs) will fight again - win or lose - beyond May 2nd.
During his recent media day, Mayweather admitted that he's no longer passionate about boxing as a sport and now views it as a business.
After he steps in the ring next Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, against Manny Pacquiao, the unbeaten WBC/WBA welterweight champion has stated that he plans to fight one more time - in September. The fight in September would be his final contract obligation to CBS/Showtime.
Arum has also recognized Mayweather's lack of enthusiasm when it comes to boxing. Both fighters will earn record purses, with Mayweather's end being estimated at $180 million. With so much money in the bank, and his love for boxing washing away, Arum wouldn't be surprised if Mayweather hangs up the gloves before September.
Even if Pacquiao pulls off an upset, Arum doubts a rematch would happen because he feels it's too difficult to communicate, in any manner, with the other side.
"I don't think anyone would deny that Floyd is a control freak," says Arum to Daily Mail. It was only by giving Floyd everything he wanted that we got this thing done. But it's still been so difficult dealing with his team and Al Haymon. It takes them three weeks to answer an email, for God's sake. I really don't want to go through this nonsense all over again. After this is over we can get money from other fights. Not as much but very good money."
"I'm not sure Floyd will fight again, especially if he loses to Manny. I don't think he wants to. Sure he likes the money and the lifestyle and the limelight. But I don't see him enjoying boxing any more. This is the biggest fight of the modern era but he's not embracing the promotion. He's gone quiet. Whereas Manny is excited and we have to hold him back from doing too much media."
