Freddie Roach says deal with Mayweather is “Very close”

http://www.************.com/2015/01/freddie-roach-says-deal-with-mayweather-is-very-close/ boxingnewstwentyfour By Antonia Bufalino: According to Freddie Roach, the potential mega-fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather may be at its closest mark to coming to fruition than it’s ever been. Per TheSweetScience.com, Roach told boxing reporter, Micheal Woods, “I think I’m getting close to saying it’s very close, I think we’re very close.” He continued by stating the fight is closer than it has ever been to being made. Manny Pacquiao is positive as well by explaining how these negotiations are the most successful the two fighters have ever been in. Last weekend, Pacquiao told ABS-CBN News, “It’s beautiful that we’re talking now. We’ve never had that before.” It appears both sides are reaching new heights when it comes to negotiations. Talks are still extremely sensitive at this point, and not much information on demands or purse split have been said. However, according to Roach and Pacquiao, the negotiations seem to be moving in positive direction and going further than it has ever gone. On December 15, Chavit Singsor, Pacquiao’s trusted advisor, revealed a planned sit-down meeting that would occur early January between Pacquiao, Koncz, Mayweather, Haymon, and both fighters’ attorneys to iron out details for the fight. Manny Pacquiao is flying to America next week to promote his movie, Manny. However, with both sides wanting to keep all negotiation talks on the down low, it wouldn’t be surprising if Pacquiao’s planned sit-down meeting with Mayweather happens when he comes America next week. Of course, that is just speculation. Take heart, boxing fans. With Roach claiming a deal is very close and Pacquiao’s brimming positivity over negotiations, the fight we have all dreamed of may end up being a reality- and soon. However, while each piece of news seems to be in a positive direction, history has shown negotiations between the two can fall a part within seconds. So, as Benjamin Disraeli once said, “Hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.”