MANILA, Philippines - Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao sees no need to talk about his possible clash with Floyd Mayweather Jr., saying the undefeated American doesn't really want to fight.
In an interview with state-run People's Television (PTV) at the sidelines of the New Year Vin d’Honneur in Malacañang on Friday, Pacquiao himself belied reports that his fight with Mayweather has been set for this year.
He said there are still no discussions on the much-awaited megabout.
"Sa tingin ko, parang ayaw naman niya (Mayweather) talagang lumaban," Pacquiao said. "Hindi na kailangang pag-usapan 'yung mga bagay na iyan dahil ayaw naman talaga niya."
But the eight-division champion said he is ready to face Mayweather anytime.
"Kung okay naman siya, kung gusto niya, anytime naman [handa] tayo," Pacquiao said.
The camps of Pacquiao and Mayweather have already denied reports that the collision between the two fighters will take place this September.
But Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, believes that "we're closer and closer to a Mayweather fight" and the rumors on the highly-anticipated match will be a reality.
Read: Roach sees Manny-Floyd bout September
“I think (Bob) 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,†Roach told Michael Woods of thesweetscience.com.
According to reports, Pacquiao is eyeing a rematch with Timothy Bradley on April while Mayweather is targeting Amir Khan for his fight this May.
Pacquiao, the District Representative of Saranggani, attended the New Year Vin d’Honneur on Friday, an annual New Year reception hosted by the President as head of state.
Among the guests were his fellow House members, Cabinet officials and envoys of other nations to the Philippines.