Bayless to referee Mayweather vs Pacquiao; 3 US judges named

MANILA, Philippines – Kenny Bayless has been appointed to referee the Floyd Mayweather Jr vs Manny Pacquiao fight on May 2 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. The decision was announced at a hearing by the Nevada Athletic Commission on Wednesday morning, April 22 Manila time. 

Bayless, 64, has officiated over 100 world title fights since being appointed as a professional boxing referee in 1991. The Berkeley, Calif. native known for his “What I say you must obey” catchphrase has been the third man for a number of both fighters’ fights, including Pacquiao’s second and fourth fights with Juan Manuel Marquez, as well as his victories over Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto. 

Bayless also worked Mayweather’s fights with Shane Mosley, Saul Alvarez and the second fight with Marcos Maidana. 

Three American judges will decide the outcome should the fight complete the twelve round distance or end in a technical decision. Burt Clements and Dave Moretti of Nevada were selected along with Glenn Feldman of Connecticut.

Clements was the official who scored the first Pacquiao vs Marquez fight in 2004 a draw, turning in a 113-113 card. Clements scored the first round 10-7 instead of 10-6 like the other two judges despite Pacquiao scoring three knockdowns. He told the Las Vegas Review Journal afterwards that he made an error, resulting in a draw. 

“I just screwed up. I feel badly because I dropped the ball, plainly and simply,” Clements was quoted as saying.

The referee will make $25,000 to work the main event while the three judges will make $20,000 each. 

In a formality, Mayweather was granted a boxing license by a 5-0 unanimous vote. – Rappler.com