It is now less than two weeks until Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather face off in Las Vegas in what has recently been described by UFC president Dana White as 'the biggest fight ever'.

The bout is certainly drawing anticipation, with Mayweather (49-0) coming out of retirement to face McGregor, arguably the most talented UFC fighter in the modern age, who is partaking in his first professional boxing match.

Both fighters are expected to earn a minimum of $100million from the clash at the T-Mobile Arena.

A significant aspect of the fight later this month is that of the referee, who will play an important role in enforcing the rules during the match between fighters from different combat styles.

Kenny Bayless, who took charge of six of Mayweather's last 12 fights, stretching back to his controversial victory over Oscar de la Hoya in 2007, was one name rumoured to ref the bout.

Bayless is widely considered to be one of the most professional and talented officials in the business and has earned a legendary reputation from taking charge of some of the most high-profile clashes in the sport's history, such as Pacquiao vs. Hatton, Pacquiao vs. Cotto, and Mayweather vs. Pacquiao.

The 67-year old has become known for his token catchphrase: "What I say you must obey."

Many had tipped Bayless as a prime candidate to take charge of yet another history-making clash in his native Nevada on August 26, but he has now been ruled out of the running by the Nevada State Commission over comments made last year in an interview with Elie Seckbach.

“I wouldn’t want to see, Mayweather-McGregor," said Bayless.

"It’s two different sports. UFC and boxing are two different sports. What would be the point?"

Conor McGregor voiced his concerns over Bayless being assigned to the event on Friday too. 

“His views. He went public on what he thought the fight was, He can’t be involved in the event."

It was widely reported back in late June that McGregor's camp would object to Bayless refereeing the fight.

The Commission's Executive Bob Bennett confirmed that the decision had been made by Chairman Anthony Marnell III based on the critical past comments made by Bayless.

''I don’t think he’s prejudiced toward Mayweather or anyone else, but the fact he made the statement that the event shouldn’t be going on makes him ineligible to be considered as the referee," said Bennett.

The confirmation of Bayless' ineligibility for selection, shortly after McGregor confirmed his disapproval, has led to media rumours that it was the objection of the Irishman that led to Bayless' removal, although Bennett has strenuously denied this.

"Kenny Bayless was removed from being considered because of the comment.

"Based on his comment — he shouldn’t be talking to the media unless it’s something mundane, like about how official works — he was removed long before McGregor said anything.”

The Commission is set to reveal its choices for the event's referee and a panel of judges on Wednesday morning, with Russell Mora and Tony Weeks believing to be among the favourites for the referee position.