Reports of McGregor-Mayweather fight shot down but Floyd keen

An Irish report claiming a deal had been agreed for a fight between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather has been shot down from the American end, but the American is still keen.

The Irish Sun reported yesterday that it was a matter of time before the bout was announced.

"The contract hasn't officially been signed yet because of a third party holdup but all details have been agreed on," the newspaper claimed.

"The fight could even be announced within two weeks."

But it now appears the clash is as far off as it ever has been.

Yahoo Sports boxing reporter Chris Mannix has been told the Irish Sun's information was off the mark.

"No truth to the overseas report of a Mayweather-McGregor deal, per source directly involved in the process," Mannix tweeted.

"From what I'm told, this is Conor McGregor putting pressure on (UFC boss) Dana White. Far more likely McGregor takes a lucrative MMA fight next."

Mayweather, meanwhile, has told ESPN's Stephen A Smith that the fighters are on the verge of an agreement.

"We're getting very, very close," the 39-year-old Mayweather said.

While Mayweather is optimistic, he says nothing is guaranteed until contracts are signed. No timetable was given for the prospective boxing match.

"Real people are having real discussions," Nevada State Athletic Commission chairman Anthony Marnell told ESPN on Tuesday.

"I'm also telling you my opinion as the NSAC chairman that a lot of things need to get done in order to see something like this come together because there are so many parties that want to get their hands on the pot.

"Maybe it will get figured out, but it's going to be hard when everyone is declaring they want $US100 million ($A131 million)."

The UFC remains a major roadblock in any potential fight.

White recently said the bout could only take place with his permission but he was unlikely to sign off on it.

"He's under contract with us. You have a contract for a reason," White told reporters last week.

"Let me tell you what, there are a lot of contracts out there, no matter what business you are in — UFC or whatever — and it's pretty tough to get out of a contract.

"And if that's what Conor wants to do (fight Mayweather), he's got four fights left. He's got four fights left with the UFC. Fight your four fights and, you know, go out and do what you want to do."

White has put his foot down after previously participating in the verbal back-and-forth.

- with AAP