Seven-time trainer of the year Roach said Bayless, who got a 5-0 vote from the board of the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC), is the best referee in the world.
“I have no problem with him, Roach said. “He’s a long-time friend. It’s good that he was selected. He has refereed many of my boxers, including Manny himself and he accounted himself well.” Roach said.
For his part, Fortune, who is Pacquiao’s strength and conditioning coach said, he doesn’t think Bayless will be foolish enough to disappoint the fans.
“Bayless is a good guy, the selection is good,” Justin told veteran writer Eddie Alinea. “Freddie knows the guy, who’s been his friend for quite sometime. I’m sure he’s happy with the development,” he said.
“The whole world will watch the confrontation and I don’t think he will be foolish to disappoint all those who want to see a fair fight between two best fighters on earth,” Fortune added.
NSAC earlier appointed three judges who will do the scoring for the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight. They include veteran boxing judges Burt Clements, Dave Moretti and Glenn Feldman.
For the work that will take less than an hour, Bayless will receive at least $25,000 while $20,000 each will go to the judges.
Bayless’ professional fee is believed to be the highest ever for a boxing referee.
But legendary boxer Oscar de la Hoya is saying any decision by Bayless could be tilted in favor of Mayweather.
“History shows that Kenny Bayless protects Mayweather, Pacquiao is now up against two guys in the ring instead of one, so I would have to say Pacquiao is already one point behind and the fight hasn’t even started,” said De la Hoya, who fought and lost to both Mayweather and Pacquiao in the past.
“It’s surprising to me given the history but you know, hey, it’s Vegas and it’s Mayweather’s hometown and they are obviously going to do what’s best for him,” he added.
Meanwhile, tickets that were released to the public by the MGM Grand and the promoters numbering about 1,000 have been sold out in minutes after they were made available Thursday.
