Former hip-hop production kingpin Marion “Suge” Knight, facing a murder charge, may soon be freed from custody. Boxer floyd mayweather, a friend of Knight’s, has reportedly pledged to pay his $10 million bail if he wins his fight against Manny Pacquiao on Saturday night.

Knight’s attorney, Matthew Fletcher, is quoted as saying “they’re good friends - that’s one of his wealthiest friends” and that he expects the boxer to pay up his client’s huge bail fee if he is victorious.

Suge KnightSuge Knight may be bailed out of custody by boxer Floyd Mayweather

The Los Angeles Times first reported the story on Thursday, two days ahead of the fight in Las Vegas, which is one of the most anticipated showdowns in the world of boxing in recent years.

More: Footage allegedly showing Suge Knight running over two men released online

Fletcher also said that a lawyer representing Mayweather reached out to him several weeks ago and asked about the mechanics of bailing the former rap producer and Death Row label owner. He also said that he had discussed with Knight on Wednesday the possibility of the boxer springing him from police custody.

He’s also quoted as saying “Suge said, ‘Man, I was really going to pull for him to win, but now I’m going to have to pray for him to win.’” It must be emphasised that nobody from Mayweather’s camp has yet confirmed these extraordinary reports.

Knight, 50, is being charged murder and attempted murder following a hit-and-run incident in Compton, Los Angeles back in January. He is accused of leaving one man dead and another severely injured after hitting them with his vehicle outside a fast food restaurant.

Knight pleaded not guilty to the charges on Thursday, claiming that he was acting in self-defence and that he was in fear for his life. A jury trial date has been set for July 7th.

More: Rap mogul Suge Knight ordered to stand trial on murder charge