It's official -- the Conor McGregor versus Manny Pacquiao fight is not happening. The UFC star is looking to throw down against an MMA fighter next.
There have been reports that Pacquiao's camp is talking to McGregor's side for a bout in 2018. The rumors about a potential fight between the octuple boxing champion and the MMA star were, however, shut down by the latter. McGregor made it clear that he wants to fight in the octagon next instead of the boxing ring. McGregor told TMZ that he wants a "real fight" in the octagon. "I think a true fight is what I want to do next," he added. When asked if he will fight Pacquiao, he said "MMA next."
Pacquiao's own coach Freddie Roach said the fight between the boxing star and the MMA icon is not a good idea. Roach told Fight Hub TV that the fight will only generate publicity and money and will not be competitive at all. "It's kind of like ripping off the world. It wouldn't be a fair fight. Cause, unless Manny fought by their rules too," Roach said.
UFC boss Dana White also got caught up in the cross fire and had been accused of using McGregor's status in the MMA for money. A Twitter user indicated that McGregor's belt should be taken away because he had no legit MMA fight for more than a year. White then replied to the comment saying, "He's not boxing anyone so calm down cry babies."
There are still no new reports about a potential opponent for McGregor. His last fight was with undefeated boxing star Floyd Mayweather in the boxing ring, and he was defeated.
On the other hand, there are news surrounding Pacquiao that he might face Australia's Jeff Horn for a rematch in 2018. The Filipino Pride was also linked to USA's Terence Crawford.
