Showtime Executive Says Talks For Mayweather vs. McGregor Are At A Standstill

In an interview with the podcast Boxing with Chris Mannix, Showtime Sports Executive Vice President Stephen Espinoza said that discussions for a fight between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather are at a standstill. Here are highlights:

On setting up McGregor vs. Mayweather: “The biggest battle in Mayweather-Pacquiao was both guys really thinking that the other wanted to do it. That part has happened [with McGregor and Mayweather], so I think the real question – and it’s sort of a black box right now – is where’s the UFC really, on this? Do they, in fact, want it? Dana – speaking on behalf of, I assume, the UFC – is making noises that he’s more open to it but talk is talk. I haven’t seen a lot of progress either internally in the deal between the two of them or externally, the deal between that side and this side. It’s largely at a standstill. There hasn’t been a ton of progress and I think if they don’t move relatively quickly, people may move on. People may tire of it. But it really is something that needs to happen this year or it probably won’t happen. Floyd’s on 18 months, two solid years come September since he’s fought. He’s still in great shape, but at a certain point, he’s not gonna do it after a while.”

On why the UFC may not be as open to it: “I think part of the fear on the UFC’s side is that they’ll never see Conor again. If he makes 50, 60, 70 and then you never see him in the ring and he retires in Ireland and so much for their megastar.”