Manny Pacquiao and his people constantly needle Floyd Mayweather Jr. for a fight, despite a stunning level of indifference from the pound-for-pound king. Even with interest in that matchup waning, there's likely to be a great deal of money made from the pairing.
Pacquiao might really need the payday. He recently had his assets frozen by the Filipino government as they pursue $50 million they claim he owes in taxes on income earned in 2008 and 2009. "2.2 billion (pesos) is what Pacquiao owes now because of surcharges and interest," Philippines tax commissioner Kim Henares said.
That bill could be chopped if Pacquiao produces proof that he paid taxes to the United States IRS, which Pacquiao says he has done. The Filipino government isn't satisfied with his evidence, though, despite the boxer's denials.
"I am not a criminal or a thief. I am not hiding anything. I will face my problems as they come," Pacquiao said.
While Pacquiao deals with the Philippines issues, the IRS is coming after him as well for an additional $18 million, according to TMZ.com. They have provided a yearly breakdown of what the IRS claims Pacquiao owes:
2006 -- $1,160,324.30
2007 -- $2,035,992.50
2008 -- $2,862,437.11
2009 -- $8,022,915.87
2010 -- $4,231,999.01
With such serious tax issues bearing down on him, a fight with Mayweather could be a major help. The WBC lent Pacquiao a hand in that respect, announcing him as the No. 1 contender and mandatory challenger for Mayweather's welterweight strap. If Mayweather fails to face him, he will be forced to vacate the title.
Still, Mayweather has shown little to no interest in making the fight happen, although very recently the door appears to have opened a crack. "I've got nothing bad to say Manny Pacquiao," Mayweather said to Hustleboss.com. "The guy is 1-2 in his last 3 fights. I wish him only the best. I don't know which company he's with. I'm only focused on Mayweather Promotions. My focus is on May 3rd. I don't know who my opponent is. If it's Pacquiao, it's Pacquiao. If it's Amir Khan, it's Amir Khan."
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