ESPN Commentator Teddy Atlas Says Mayweather-Pacquiao Fight Should Happen Only Because Their Careers Are 'Winding Down'

In addition to being the much-anticipated rivalry showdown in the history of boxing in recent generation, trainer and fight commentator Teddy Atlas said that the only reason why the super fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao should happen is because both fighters are already in the later years of their careers. After a long and storied career, Atlas believes that the time is now for Mayweather and Pacquiao to step in the ring together.

In an interview with Fight Hype, Atlas has expressed his views on the potential Mayweather-Pacquiao fight. According to Atlas, the fight should have happened in 2009, when it was first laid on the table.

"The right timing for the fight was five years ago as far as the fans go, as far as seeing the best they had to offer, as far as the best athletic performance that they could offer themselves and the best place they could be from an athletic and physical standpoint and mental standpoint," Atlas said. "That was the time to see the fight, but it might be the best time to see the fight now mainly because of the position they are in now in terms of both guys winding down in their careers."

Consequently, Atlas said that Mayweather and Pacquiao are in their twilight years of their career. From a fiscal perspective, Atlas stated that Pacquiao may need it more than Mayweather because of the Filipino's alleged tax problems in the Philippines, which gives him more urgent reasons to make the fight finally take place.

As for Mayweather, Atlas said that Pacquiao could be that "career-defining fight" for the undefeated boxer. Even though Mayweather will retire undefeated, there will always be a question mark on his legacy if he doesn't fight Pacquiao. Atlas believes that the eight-division Filipino world champion is the only fighter that Mayweather needs to face so he will gain the legacy that he wants to attain.

At this point in time, there are no other interesting names for Mayweather to fight. With Khan trying to score a fight against Mayweather, Atlas said that the Bolton-born boxer is not going to present an exciting fight for boxing fans.

Recently, Mayweather has called out Pacquiao to fight on May 2. Pacquiao's advisor Michael Koncz has revealed that both camps are working hard in trying to make the fight happen. However, nothing has not been finalised yet.

Read more: Pacquiao's Advisor Michael Koncz Reveals Negotiations Of Counteroffers From Mayweather's Camp, Both Camps Pushing Hard For Long Overdue Fight

Top Rank's Bob Arum via the Philippine Star has said that Pacquiao will fight someone else in April if the Mayweather fight doesn't take place. Mayweather, on the other hand, will return to the ring, regardless of who he fights in May.

To reach the author of this article, email r.corpuz@IBTimes.com.au.