Vegas fights for Mayweather-Pacquiao match-up

Anita Roman reporting

The deal hasn't been struck just yet but word is that Floyd Mayweather, Jr. will meet Manny Pacquiao in the ring in March.

And it could happen right here in Las Vegas.

The match-up is so huge that several other cities have also put in bids to host the event. But city officials and fans want the fight to take place right here in town.

Victor Ortiz of Top Dogg Boxing hung up his professional boxing gloves to years ago. Today, although he trains the young up-and-coming fighters, he still makes time to keep a close eye on fan favorites.

We're talking about the potential mega-fight between two of the greats: Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.

"It would be a great fight for the boxing fans."

As momentum grows for a March 2010 match-up, cities like Los Angeles, New Orleans, and Dallas are throwing their hats in the ring to host the event, one that normally takes place in Las Vegas.

"Boxing belongs here in Vegas," Ortiz continues. "This is the boxing capitol of the world."

According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitor's Authority, the history of major prize fights in Las Vegas dates back to the 1930s. Even today, decades later, a match-up between two marquee fighters like Pacquiao and Mayweather would be extremely beneficial to the city.

Jeremy Handle, spokesperson for the LVCVA, says depending upon the venue and the fighters involved, a bout such as this could draw anywhere from 9,000 to 18,000 people and $10 million to $15 million.

"The international recognition, the pay-per-view viewership, just everything that has Las Vegas on the title brings more recognition to the destination as well."

This is why Handle says it's so important for Mayweather and Pacquiao to fight here. And Ortiz agrees.

"This place will be sold out. If it doesn't get sold out I would be surprised no matter where they have it. But I think this is where the fight should be: here in Vegas."

Reports have surfaced on the Internet that certain cities have already been ruled out. However, a source connected to one of the fighters says every location is still being considered, including Florida, Atlanta, and even the country of Congo.

A decision could be reached by this weekend.

Source: kvbc.com