Roach upbeat on Manny-Floyd showdown

MANILA, Philippines – Freddie Roach believes a much-awaited collision between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao is just around the corner, contrary to what has been reported that the megabuck fight isn’t happening anytime soon.

In a report by Michael Woods of thesweetscience.com, Roach said a clash between two of the sport’s biggest stars is inevitable since both Mayweather and Pacquiao won’t be able to earn bigger purses facing someone else.

"I think we're closer and closer to a Mayweather fight. It's only rumors now, but I think the rumors will come true. I don't think either Manny or Mayweather has anywhere else to go," he told Woods.

Roach’s statement comes amid Mayweather repeatedly expressing his disinterest in fighting Pacquiao for a slew of reasons.

The undefeated fighter made it clear that a fight between him and Pacquiao isn’t going to happen as long as the Filipino icon is associated with Bob Arum, whom Mayweather disdains.

Roach believes otherwise, hinting that Arum will do everything he can to make sure Pacquiao gets Mayweather. Pacquiao’s contract with Top Rank is good for 2014, and many boxing observers believe the only way for a Mayweather-Pacquiao duel to become a reality is if Arum steps aside.

"Manny has time left in his contract but I think if he calls Bob and tells Bob what he wants, and that's Mayweather. Bob will give him (Pacquiao) what he wants, Bob will let him go do that fight," added the bespectacled trainer.

Pacquiao has been eyeing Mayweather since returning to his winning ways with a victory over Brandon Rios in Macau last November, but he is likely headed for a rematch with Timothy Bradley on April 12. Mayweather, for his part, is targeting Amir Khan for his fight this May.

Roach said he’s pushing for Mayweather-Pacquiao in September and is confident that Arum can get it done.

"I think Arum being the promoter and the professional that he is, will give Manny that fight. I like that September date, I'm pushing for it," he said, adding that he’ll even call Pacquiao to get things going with Arum.

"You've got to give the fans what they want and most important, you as the promoter have to give the fighter what he wants," Roach further said.

For Roach, the fight the world wants to see is “closer now than ever."