Pacquiao says he's approached McGregor's team regarding potential bout

Manny Pacquiao isn't giving up on a date with combat sports' most wanted man.

Speaking with AFP on Friday, the decorated boxer claimed he'd reached out to UFC lightweight champ Conor McGregor's camp regarding a potential matchup in April, once he's tended to his senatorial duties in his native Philippines.

"If we can negotiate it, I have no problem. It is OK with both of us," Pacquiao said, although he added the involved parties "have not yet had any follow-up conversations."

However, Pacquiao mentioned McGregor was one of several fighters on his docket for a bout during the senate's recess, with Keith Thurman and Jeff Horn - the latter of whom bested him by decision to win the WBO welterweight title in July - looming as potential takers. Malaysia, Dubai, and Macau were all floated as would-be landing spots for the 38-year-old's next fight.

McGregor hasn't entered the Octagon since last November and last fell to Floyd Mayweather by 10th-round TKO in his pro boxing debut in August. He's repeatedly stated he wants the UFC to cut him in before signing on for his next bout.