Manny Pacquiao wants to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr © PA Photos Enlarge

Manny Pacquiao claims he will agree to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr on the basis of a 45-55% purse split, allowing the American the greater percentage even if Pacquiao emerges the victor.

Pacquiao and Mayweather have been in on-off negotiations over a lucrative showdown for years, with several factors cropping up to prevent them fighting. In what is seen as the fight for the crown of pound-for-pound king, it is reported that the pair may finally step into the same ring within the next 18 months.

Mayweather has previously demanded that Pacquiao agrees to random pre-fight drug testing, as well as a smaller percentage of the fight purse. The Filipino was offered a flat $40 million purse, which he rejected.

Now Pacquiao is insisting he will accept a 45-55% split, which is unconditional on the outcome of the fight. Therefore, even if Mayweather loses, he would still pick up the greater amount.

"Win or lose, I'll take 45%," Pacquiao was quoted as saying to his publicist by the Los Angeles Times. "Floyd can have top billing, he can be introduced in the ring first or last.

"He can wear my trunks. I don't care. I just want to get him in the ring and make the fight."

The report came 24 hours after Pacquiao had told ESPN's First Take show that he had "no problem" with Mayweather's demand for random drug tests. "Whatever he wants to do," commented Pacquiao.

There is some confusion over Pacquiao's comments, though, with advisor Michael Koncz later claiming the Filipino was merely saying he would stick to the original plan of 55% to the winner, 45% to the loser. That contradicts what Pacquiao is reported to have said.

A further issue may yet arise when it comes to deciding the venue, with Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum open to hosting the bout at the Cowboys Stadium in Texas. Mayweather, though, is determined to keep the fight in Las Vegas.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.