MANILA, Philippines -- Talks of a showdown between Manny Pacquiao and Terence Crawford continue to ramp up, with Top Rank boss Bob Arum saying that Bahrain is now a potential venue for the bout.

Crawford said recently that he is optimistic the fight will happen, as their camp remains in contact with Pacquiao's even amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a Boxing Scene report, Arum has had "serious talks" about holding the fight in Bahrain, via management company MTK Global.

"We hope we get Crawford and Pacquiao in action this year, and through our friends at MTK, we are in serious talks with Bahrain for doing major fights there," said Arum, who used to promote Pacquiao.

"I would love to do some big, big events in Bahrain," he said.

• READ: Germany won't punish players for George Floyd protests

MTK Global recently announced a partnership with KHK Sports to hold a boxing summit in Bahrain later this year, where "industry leaders unite in a desire to take the sport of boxing to the next level." Following the summit, Bahrain will also host its first-ever world championship bout.

Arum clarified that nothing is certain at this point, but he is optimistic about getting the bout done. The promoter has previously said that if the Pacquiao-Crawford fight happens, it will be outside the United States and the Philippines.

"Everything is likely," said Arum. "Everyone wants to do these big events until it comes time to put up the money."

"But I think with Bahrain, we've got a good shot at getting it done," he added.

Crawford currently holds the WBO welterweight championship, while Pacquiao owns the WBA "super" welterweight title after his split decision win over Keith Thurman in July 2019.

(For more sports coverage, visit the ABS-CBN Sports website).