Justin Bieber collided with history as he slipped into group pictures at the end of the Floyd Mayweather Vs. Manny Pacquiao press conference to announce the historic fight on May 2.
Bieber did not sit on the stage during the speeches. But, he stepped up for the photos at the red carpet event, which was held at the Nokia Theater in downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday, March 11. Some commentators later expressed snark over the Canadian’s presence, with the mainstream media narrative contending that he crashed the party .
But it can hardly be a surprise to see Bieber and Money together. Overall, it added to the theater of the occasion.
The 21-year-old superstar — who is a pal of Mayweather’s and co-investors in the selfie-centric Shots app — has walked the so far undefeated champion out to victory three times.
It is likely Bieber will do so again at Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Garden Arena, where Manny and Floyd will finally face off.
Just when you thought the fight couldn’t get bigger…in walks Justin Bieber via @MMAHistoryToday pic.twitter.com/lIueIU1QKO”
— Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) March 11, 2015
The insanely anticipated Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 knockouts) and Mayweather (47-0, 26 KOs) bout is being widely billed as a fight for the ages. The 36-year-old Philippines native has won titles in eight divisions while Mayweather, 38, has won titles in five.
Yes the Biebs is here @justinbieber #Mayweather pic.twitter.com/jwnkd3nhqN
— Andy Scholes (@AndyScholesCNN) March 11, 2015
Naturally, the pair’s encounter is expected to break financial records with pay-per-view. Ticket price reportedly start at $1,500. During the press conference, both men took their turn at the podium.
“I believe this is what you are waiting for since five years ago,” Pacquiao said, alluding to the five years it’s taken for both teams to agree on deal terms. “The fight is on, and we’re very excited. Both of us will undergo hard training and we will do our best on May 2 to make you happy.”
Mayweather also ramped up the hype when he spoke.
“This is a fight the world can’t miss.” He continued, “May 2. That’s when the world stops. I want everyone to tune in. Mayweather and Pacquiao. The biggest fight in boxing history.”
Rappler reports Pacquiao is currently training with Freddie Roach at the Wild Card Gym in LA while Mayweather is working with his father Floyd Mayweather Sr. in Las Vegas.
Meanwhile, shortly after Bieber’s appearance at the press conference, he posted a photo of himself and Floyd’s daughter Iyanna.
It was captioned, “Staring contest with @moneyyaya at the @floydmayweather press conference.”
The hitmaker also tweeted a snap to Instagram of him, Mayweather, and Pacquiao with a note that read, “Getting the champ ready for the fight @floydmayweather #moneyteam.”
The big fight cometh on May 2. Will you be watching?
[Images via Getty Images]