Conor, Floyd set to battle at last
IT’S finally happening — well, in a couple of months.
After a year of buildup, with both sides speculating about a potential megabout between Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor, a date has been set for Aug. 26 in Las Vegas.
Both the undefeated boxer — who is coming out of retirement with a 49-0 pro record — and the UFC star confirmed the news Wednesday evening on social media.
McGregor even took a slight dig at his opponent, tweeting “THE FIGHT IS ON,” along with a picture of Floyd Mayweather Sr. instead.
Last month, Mayweather said he had signed his portion of a contract setting up the anticipated match.
“The first, and most important part of this historic contract has now officially been signed off on. Congratulations to all parties involved. We now await Al Haymon and his boxer’s signature in the coming days,” the Irishman told themaclife.com, with UFC president Dana White confirming the news.
It was then up to Mayweather — who last fought Andre Berto in 2015 — to sign on. The terms of the deal are not yet available.
The fight, which will be available via Showtime pay-perview, is set to be held at the MGM Grand Garden, according to Yahoo Sports, with the Nevada Athletic Commission approving a request by Mayweather Promotions to put on a boxing card on that date at the MGM Grand.
Two years ago, Mayweather told ESPN.com there was “nothing else” for him “to prove to the sport of boxing.” Apparently, there is (and the money probably helps, too).
Mayweather will enjoy a slight edge on McGregor. The fighters will be using 10-ounce boxing gloves instead of the smaller UFC gloves and McGregor will not be allowed to use the leg kicks or takedowns that are used in mixed martial arts. — with AP