After waiting for five years for ‘the fight of the century’, the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, USA, will later today host one of the most anticipated and talked about fights in boxing history, between two of the best fighters in boxing – Floyd ‘The Money’ Mayweather Jr. and Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao.

The fight has been estimated to gross more than $400 million from ticket sales, media rights and promotions – far more than any other sporting event in sports history. Mayweather will come out of the fight $180 million richer while the ‘Pacman’ will receive $120 million.

Mayweather and Pacquiao will go into the ring with a lot of expectations, among which include proving their superiority and showing their fans why they are called the best fighters of their generation.

American boxing pundits are of the view that Mayweather, who has been undefeated in his professional fight, will retire without knowing the word defeat. Others, however, say this may just be the fight that he has been waiting for to experience that defeat from the hands of the Pilipino.

Pacquiao, 36, who has 57 wins and five defeats from 64 pro fights, said: “It’s a great responsibility for me to give enjoyment to the fans. The fans deserve to have a good fight, whether they are a fan of Mayweather or Pacquiao.

“The Lord will always be with me and strengthen me and deliver him into my hands.”

Asked about the difference in size – Mayweather is 5ft 8ins and Pacquiao 5ft 6½ins with a reach difference of five inches in favour of the American – the Filipino southpaw replied: “I’ve been fighting bigger guys – Oscar De La Hoya, Antonio Margarito, it doesn’t matter to me.”

The MGM Grand was abuzz the day before the fight, with people queuing to get into the Garden Arena hours before Mayweather and Pacquiao, 36, stepped on the scales.

It was the first time tickets had been sold for a weigh-in, with proceeds going to charity, and those that bought them were given a two-hour show.

The pair will fight for the WBC, WBA and WBO welterweight titles.

“I believe that with my skills, I’m going to be victorious,” said the 38-year-old Mayweather, who is unbeaten in 47 professional fights.

“I don’t take anything away from Manny Pacquiao, he’s a solid fighter and it will be an intriguing match-up,” Mayweather said.

•Photo shows Pacquiao and Mayweather.

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