Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor granted an unusual vote on whether or not they can use lighter gloves
After both Floyd Mayweather and Conor McGregor suggested that they fight in lighter gloves than was initially planned, the unusual request will be voted on by the Nevada Athletic Commission (NAC).
The vote will determine if the fighters will be allowed to wear 8-ounce gloves for their upcoming fight on August 26.
In compliance with NAC rules, 8-ounce gloves are used for fights taking place at 135 pounds or lighter, with 10-ounce gloves being used in any fight at 147 pounds or heavier. Both gloves are acceptable for weights in between that range, but 10-ounce gloves are traditionally used.
Mayweather and McGregor are scheduled to fight at 154 pounds.
Sky Sports spoke with NAC executive director Bob Bennett, who said this was the first time he had seen such an appeal.
"This is an anomaly, Bennett told Sky Sports. "I haven't experienced this in over three years on the job. I checked with the previous executive director and our programme officer who has been here for 30 years. To the best of their recollection, we have never had a request like this."
But despite the rarity of the request, Bennett noted that the fighters had the opportunity to make it, and that it would be heard.
"Our regulations require 10-ounce gloves," Bennett said. "But I won't say that there's no negotiations."
The debate over glove size began when Floyd Mayweather posted to Instagram suggesting the idea earlier in August.
"I'm telling McGregor, 'Let's fight in 8-ounce gloves'," the caption read. "McGregor can fight in any brand he prefers or chooses. I'll be wearing 8 oz Grant gloves. Whatever advantage McGregor needs to feel more comfortable in the ring, I'm willing to accommodate. Let's give the boxing and MMA fans what they want to see."
McGregor responded with a post of his own, saying "Pick whatever size gloves you want as well little man. I fight with 4-ounce [gloves in MMA]. I don't give a f--- about the size of the glove. I am coming sprinting at you with bricks. Know that."
The matter will be heard by the NAC on August 16.