Conor McGregor and Manny Pacquiao have started training ahead of their proposed fight early next year.
Both men confirmed over the weekend that they are close to agreeing terms to clash in the Middle East.
McGregor was the first to make the negotiations public before Pacquiao followed suit to say he was using the bout to raise money for Covid-19 victims in the Philippines.
Both men then posted pictures on social media of themselves in the gym as McGregor's coach confirmed his training plans.
"I do know it's in the works. I believe both boxers have agreed fundamentally, behind the scenes there are a lot of terms and conditions and legal teams and managers to work out the fine details but I believe it will happen," John Kavanagh told Boxing Productions TV .
"I think it might be early next year but the wheels are in the motion and it looks like I'll be coaching boxing again.
"I'll play a part but it will be mostly Owen and Phil Sutcliffe, Conor's long-time boxing coach from Crumlin Boxing. The bulk of the work will be done with those guys but I always have a hand in there."
McGregor, who is now sporting a buzz cut which he had at the beginning of his mixed martial arts career, will be fighting for just the second time as a professional boxer.
His debut came against Floyd Mayweather three years ago when the Irishman was stopped in the 10th round.
It is not clear what weight limit will be in place for McGregor's clash with Pacquiao, or if there will be a belt on the line.
McGregor's last fight in the UFC was at 170lb but his natural weight class is 155lb with boxing's nearest equivalent the super-welterweight division at 154lb.
Pacquiao has been fighting at 147lb but is likely to accept a heavier limit.
McGregor said over the weekend that he would rather fight in the UFC but that a lack of opportunities has led him instead to Pacquiaio.
"I’d rather fight MMA anyway, not sure why I’ve been held back like this, it’s borderline criminal at this stage," he said.
"The biggest number generator in the game asking for four fights since February this year and getting left on seen. It’s pretty f***** up when I keep thinking of it. I’ve been right here this whole time.
"Anyways boxing it is for now and I’m up for this! I hope no bottling takes place here. I’m already agreeing to these limited rules and holding back my full array of weapons. Let’s get it going guys."
