This is the exact opposite of what most people believe. I think for a very long time Arum didn’t really want the fight, I think Pacquiao will fight anyone. Recently, it appeared more than Mayweather did want the fight. But, it is up to you to decide who you believe. In an interview with Fight Hype, Mayweather says he was the driving force behind the fight happening.
BT: After nearly 6 years, how did the fight finally come about? Was it a difficult process to get to the finish line in these negotiations?
FM: It was very, very difficult. We forced them to fight. We gave them no choice. Al and Bob and HBO and Showtime were going back and forth, trying to make the fight happen. It was a battle, but everybody is happy now and it’s time to give the people what they want to see. Everyone was saying, “Sign the contract! Sign the contract!” As soon as Arum signed and as soon as Manny signed, Al Haymon brought the contract right to me and I signed the contract with no problem at all. I’m not here to say anything negative about Bob or say anything negative about Manny. That’s not my job to do. I’m a boxer/entertainer and my job is to go out there and entertain and be the best that I can be. I’m just happy that we were able to make the fight happen. I can’t wait.
The rest of the interview is Mayweather just saying similar things he has said over the years when asked about the Pacquiao fight. He also touches on some of the technical aspects of the fight which is he has no worries about Pacquiao style.
The good news is the fight is done and what happened in the past is in the past. Everything will be decided in the ring May 2nd.