Pacquiao vs Mayweather | Pacquiao vs Mayweather News | Pacquiao vs Mayweather Updates | Pacquiao Mayweather 24/7 Episodes | Pacquiao vs Mayweather Online Live Streaming

Pacquiao And Mayweather Last Fight Highlights

Pacquiao vs Cotto
Mayweather vs Marquez

Pacquiao vs Mosley Online Live Streaming

Pacquiao vs Mosley News and Updates, Online Live Streaming and Coverage, Pacquiao Mosley 24/7 by HBO

Fighter's Record

Manny Pacquiao Profiles, Statistics and Records
Floyd Mayweather Jr. Profiles, Statistics and Records

Saturday, December 5, 2009

HBO Judge Harold Lederman charts the Pacquiao-Mayweather developments

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Online Live Streaming
Las Vegas Boxing Examiner | Chris Robinson

Of the rare group of people who have gotten to observe Manny Pacquiao’s effect on the sport from as many angles as possible, one of them very well may be HBO’s unofficial ringside scorer, Harold Lederman. Lederman has been covering the sport for years as both a professional and ‘unofficial’ judge for the sport’s premier network and has witnessed many of Pacquiao’s actions up close, whether in or out of the ring.

When told that rumors have begun circulating about Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather agreeing to terms on a March 13th date, Lederman is just as excited as anyone in regards to what the showdown could mean to the sport. Before getting his initial thoughts on the clash I first charted back a bit to get his thoughts on being present during Pacquiao’s most recent fight, his November 14th stoppage over Miguel Cotto in Las Vegas.

“To tell you truth what I remember best about that night was surprisingly good Manny Pacquiao looked against a guy who everybody figured was much bigger and stronger,” an always honest Lederman stated. “I mean Manny was moving up a division to 147 and he just took apart a full sized Welterweight, and a good Welterweight at that. What surprised me was how easy he made it look. It was a great performance by Manny Pacquiao.”

As soon as Pacquiao dispatched of his brave Puerto Rican foe the MGM Grand arena started filling up with chants of ‘We want Mayweather’. During the post fight press conference it was also announced that Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum would shortly be in discussions with Golden Boy Promotion’s Richard Schaefer in an attempt at making the bout a reality. Lederman himself is adamant about just how meaningful the contest is.

“It’s the fight that everybody wants to see,” Lederman said getting straight to the point. “The minute that referee Kenny Bayless waived his arms and said the Cotto fight was over people starting talking about it. It was almost as if Floyd was standing in the ring saying ‘Now you got to get by me’. Never in my life ever have I witnessed a fight that people have wanted to see as much as this one.”

Strong words from Lederman, who has seen his share of title tilts all over the world throughout the years. When asked to elaborate further on the importance of the showdown Lederman didn’t let up or shy away from the bout’s potential magnitude.

“I think it will be the biggest thing in boxing since Ray Leonard came out of retirement to fight Marvin Hagler,” Lederman says reflecting on the memorable 1987 Middleweight clash. “Nobody wants to see anything else. The entire is sport is totally dominated by Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. People who don’t know a thing about boxing are talking about it. It’s become such an unbelievable happening that it is a fight that has to be made. It’s really amazing.”

The topic was then turned to what took place behind doors between Arum and Schaefer when ironing out the particulars to the mouthwatering showdown. While often having an insider’s point of view, Lederman admits to being just as much on the outside as anyone else, yet still marveled at how easily both sides were able to come to an agreement.

“I have no inside information about what happened because they obviously kept it very private,” Lederman says of Arum and Schaefer’s meeting. “I was fascinated by the fact that they were able to agree on something so quickly. I think that Ross Greenburg and HBO should get some credit because they were a very important part of making it happen. It got done in a record amount of time. You have two very independent and tough personalities in Manny and Floyd and I’m sure each one of them was angling to get as much as they could out of this deal so everybody deserves credit for putting it together.”

During the middle of the week it was reported that Arum was on his way to the Philippines in an attempt to come face to face with Pacquiao to see if the Filipino bomber would be interested in agreeing to terms on the bout. Arum’s absence was extremely notable, as Lederman got the exact sense of how important the situation is with Top Rank’s chief being out of town.

“I went to a Top Rank press conference yesterday, and generally speaking Bob Arum always runs Top Rank press conferences,” Lederman stated. “Yesterday I went to Madison Square Garden for the press conference for the January 23rd HBO Boxing After Dark show between Juan Manuel Lopez and Steve Luevano. Usually it’s Arum’s show but the fact that he wasn’t there shows how serious everything is. He was definitely in the Philippines talking to Manny, that’s for sure.”

If there is one person who has adamantly opposed the March 13th date it would be Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, who has insisted he would rather see the two fighters face off at a later date. Roach claims he needs a solid twelve weeks in camp with his fighter in order to get him ready for a fighter of Mayweather’s caliber. Whether or not the March 13th date goes through remains to be seen but Lederman can feel just how genuine Roach is with his claims.

“He knows how much time he needs in the gym with Manny to win the fight,” Lederman points out. “Freddie’s a pretty good trainer and he has proved it over and over again. I really believe that he knows exactly how many weeks he needs. He just needs Manny’s undivided attention for a certain amount of time. Obviously he knows the date of the election and what Manny’s plans are and that’s why he said what he said. He’s just figuring out how much time he needs. I think that’s what he’s basing his statements on.”

As the conversation came to a close Lederman was asked for any closing comments on the bout and who he feels will have the advantage. While obviously having great respect for both guys, the always modest judge sees certain things about both men that will never change, regardless of who they are in the ring against.

“I hate to pick a winner. In all honesty it’s hard to envision Manny Pacquiao changing. He gives you angles as a southpaw. He’s very good at keeping the fight off the ropes and in the center of the ring. He really doesn’t want Floyd taking him up on the ropes and hammering him. Floyd is a terrific defensive fighter so Manny and Freddie Roach have to figure out a way to get to Floyd Mayweather. Really I think Floyd is going to fight his usually defensive style and he will try to win with his fast hands and blazing combinations. And that rapid left jab he throws will be important for him. I think Pacquiao is going to try to give him angles. I think Manny is going to take it to Floyd very early. I think if there is going to be an aggressor in this fight it’s going to be Pacquiao.”

Source: Examiner.com

PACQUIAO WATCH: Mayweather fight could be Manny’s last

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Online Live Streaming
Edwin Espejo
Location: General Santos City, Philippines

Done deal. Yes, the fight will go on.

We got what everybody wished for. Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr together atop the ring disputing the mythical pound for pound title in boxing.

It is a fight that will equal, if not surpass, the third Ali-Frazier hoopla. A fight that will generate the same, if not more, interest and excitement as the Leonard-Hearns and the Tyson-Holyfield encounters - all of them record breaking fights in their respective eras.

Manny and Floyd will finally get into the center of the biggest fights of their careers with potentially the biggest money to boot.

Only five years ago, nobody would ever think this fight could happen, much more actually done.

Only five years ago, these two fighters were separated by 10 pounds and were fighting different class of fighters. Most of them top of the line.

Yet both were destined to meet each other at one point.

Today, they will fight at a weight they are comfortable with nobody complaining or claiming advantage over the other.

They will fight at an even purse and nobody will say it is a highway stickup.

But this could well be the last of the super fights to come our way. In the next decade at least.

For one, this mega fight will allow each boxer to pick up their retirement checks without ever worrying when the next dinner tab will come.

For Manny, he will collect at least Php1.5 billion (US$31 million) for this fight excluding collateral income such as cut in the live gate receipts and merchandise.

The last time Manny’s fight was aired on Solar Sports, he reportedly earned a cool Php80 million for the cable and TV rights alone.

If the pay per view sales of the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight zooms past the 2.5 million mark, each fighter’s take of the pie could go as high as US$37.5 million, enough to buy your peace for a lifetime in the Bahamas and more.

But there is more than meets the eye in this Mayweather fight.

This could be Manny’s farewell bout.

And the only way Manny will ever box again is if he losses his bid to become a member of Philippine Congress in 2010.

That is precisely one of the reasons why Manny opted to settle for a March 13 date with Mayweather.

Even during his absence while in training, he will generate unprecedented publicity and interests and a convincing win over the former American pound for pound king will solidify his bid to become a congressman.

A loss to Mayweather will not at all diminish his stature as the most recognizable person in his country.

If he wins in the Congressional elections, then we would have seen the last of Manny as far as boxing is concerned.

If he loses his congressional bid, we might see Manny again atop the ring.

So here we are. We got what we wished for. But that could be the end of it all.

Source: asiancorrespondent.com

Speedy Pacquiao Mayweather negotiations should be applauded

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
LA Boxing Examiner | Ricardo Lois

Maybe the boxing power structure is getting it. When the boxing world is begging for a super fight, get the bout negotiated quickly, and inside a ring as soon as possible.

If the reports of Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather agreeing to fight on March 13 are true, the fighters and promoters involved in the biggest bout boxing has produced in the last ten years show be applauded.

Top Rank's Bob Arum and Golden Boy Promotion's Richard Schaefer have been able to deliver a true super fight in a record time; roughly a week and a half elapsed from initial negotiations to Pacquiao signing a contract in the Philippines.

Boxing fans who have been clamoring for the fight since Pacquiao destroyed Miguel Cotto on November 14th, will be treated with a true super fight roughly four months later.

There are still contractual details to be finalized regarding location (New Orleans, Las Vegas, and Dallas are all in the mix, but expect Sin City to win in the end), weight division (Floyd show not try to work the situation to his favor and fight at the welterweight limit of 147 pounds), and glove weight (let us see these two modern boxing marvels fight with 8 ounce mitts, get rid of those 10 ounce pillows).

I am sure with fans chomping at the bit, these minor details which could have serious strategic consequences when it comes to the action in the ring, will be ironed out quickly.

For the record, coming from a scribe who has taken jabs at Schaefer, Arum, Pacquiao, and Mayweather regularly during the last few years, I tip my hat to everyone involved with the speedy negotiations and quick turn around time in bringing a fight fans want to the ring.

The Boxing Truth can be heard live every Sunday at 6 PM Pacific Standard Time, 9 PM Eastern Standard Time, 2 AM Monday United Kingdom Time, 10 AM Monday Philippines Time, and 1 PM Monday Australian Time at www.theboxingtruth.com.

Archives of our show can also be found on iTUNES, where you can also subscribe for weekly updates.

During the show calls are taken live at 562-219-3603, or fans of boxing can use SKYPE to call in at ric.lois. These lines are also open 24 hours and 7 days a week for a direct connection to The Boxing Truth's mailbox.

Source: Examiner.com

Pacquiao vs Mayweather: what's not to like about it?

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Online Live Streaming
December 5th, 2009
Brad Cooney

It's two forces that were eventually going to collide sooner or later. The negotiations are currently taking place that if successful will match up the two best fighters on the earth. The undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr vs the pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao. There is bad blood between the camps, and that bad blood crosses over into the world of boxing fans as well. The Manny Pacquiao fans make no bones about it, they think Mayweather is a coward, a fighter that has selectively cherry picked smaller opponents throughout his career. They feel as if he's a paper champion, and in some eyes, they don't feel he's even worthy enough to fight Manny Pacquiao.

Floyd Mayweather's fans are a lot less vocal. Perhaps it's a nervousness? perhaps they are quietly watching and realize that Pacquiao will present their fighter with the most difficult fight he's ever had. The bad blood also is evident between the two camps as well. There is no love lost between Mayweather Sr and Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach. Both men have publicly thrashed one another. Mayweather Sr basically accuses Pacquiao of taking, "something fishy." In other words, he is blaming Pacquiao's stunning success on steroids. There is no basis or merit to these allegations as Pacquiao has passed all drug tests as required by the commissions. Nevertheless, you can't convince Big Floyd of it. He's sticking by his theory, and makes no bones about it. Big Floyd gives absolutely no respect whatsoever to boxing legend and trainer Freddie Roach. Big Floyd has countless times, on the record, insulted Roach, calling him, "No coach joke Roach." So needless to say, there are plenty side attractions that are involved leading up to this fight.

The two men have taken different paths in their careers. Mayweather has beaten some big name fighters, but the ongoing wrap on him is that his opponents are smaller and selectively picked. With that said, he still is undefeated, and has extremely good boxing skills. His defense is excellent, his timing is excellent, and his ability to counter punch is second to none. Mayweather will provide Manny Pacquiao with a very difficult task.

Pacquiao on his way to the top has wreaked havoc, and left a path of destruction. He's conquered Mexican warriors like Morales, Barrera, De La Hoya. He's wiped out guys like Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, and David Diaz. His fame has shot through the roof on an international scale. This is a classic good guy, vs bad guy set up. Pacquiao is loved by the masses due to his story, and his character. Mayweather is looked at more like the villain, a guy that people love to hate. He's brash, he throws his money around, he has a swagger about him that most people don't take too kindly to.

This fight matches up the sports two biggest names. It matches up the sports two most recognized fighters of today. This fight matches up Pacquiao's blinding speed and power against Maweather's superb defense, counter punching, and quickness. The perfect good guy vs bad guy scenario, the perfect storm, with the side show attractions between Roach and Big Floyd. Pacquiao vs Mayweather, who doesn't want to see this?

Source: 8countnews.com

Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather: Winners and Losers

Pacquiao Mayweather 24/7
By Daniel “Tex” Cohen-December 5, 2009

For the first time since Mike Tyson-Evander Holyfield, the Boxing world has produced a fight that all of mainstream America will hear about. Manny Pacquiao is close to a household name. His status in his home country is that of a man with 100% name recognition. His in-ring performance over the last five years is, unmatched; this statement can be made unabashedly, in spite of what any Mayweather fan may state.

Mayweather, however, is no chopped liver. We must remember that Money brings perhaps the purest talent to the table when he steps in the ring. His punches are crisp and quick, slashing and sneaking in from all angles and at all speeds. Mayweather fights like he’s on a pitcher’s mound. He’ll pound you inside with three fastballs, take something off and catch you on a changeup, then finish the job with a slow curve or more high heat. Mayweather’s knockout of Ricky Hatton, a scene already erased from the mind of many Boxing fans, is worth its weight in gold. It’s no exaggeration to say that the clip is plenty worthy of highlight reels. The fact that so many have forgotten and neglected that finale only reinforces Mayweather’s opinion that he does not get enough credit. If Pacquiao fans want him to shut up and fight their man, it might be a good time to give him some.

The problem with Boxing is that it takes a perfect world to make a perfect fight. Whereas other sports guarantee marquee matchups by way of schedules, major network TV, and divisional arrangements, Boxing is stuck in the dark ages of shady, backroom, aristocratic, thuggish dealings between millionaires that wouldn’t necessarily make it in other businesses.

Could you imagine if Yankees didn’t play the Red Sox next year because George Steinbrenner and John Henry were “too far apart on the money”? Major League Baseball doesn’t let “fights” fall apart because it knows that a positive image is what makes the “fights” worthwhile.

Boxing should take a cue and keep this bout together. First of all, it ought to know better anyway. Second, the world in which the camps of Pacquiao and Mayweather are negotiating a showdown will not get any closer to perfect. Mayweather was the Pound for Pound King. Pacquiao ascended the throne in his absence. Mayweather’s comeback fight was a victory over Pacquiao’s greatest foil in Juan Manuel Marquez. Pacquiao’s most recent victory was over one of Mayweather’s greatest foils in Miguel Cotto. Both guys are now most comfortable at welterweight. Both guys do huge Pay Per View numbers. Both guys have beaten both Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton. Both guys have promoters with major sway in the sport.

(Pacquiao is, of course, Bob Arum’s greatest fighter. Mayweather is now represented by Richard Schaeffer, a fact so under the radar it’s almost frightening. Think about it: Floyd Mayweather, JR., is basically a Golden Boy Promotions fighter. Should he be scared of the curse?)

There is little to nothing that can get in the way of this fight. However, this is the fight game, a sport that we love and hate. If anything could get in the way of a perfect storm, it would be something related to Boxing.

RSR presents the Top Obstacles to Pacquiao-Mayweather

#1 Money

Ok, so this one was a no-brainer. It still merits consideration. Mayweather wants 65% of the purse. Just typing that number caused me to bend in half laughing. I seriously had to just stop typing for five minutes. There is no way that Mayweather is the bigger star in a showdown between these two. His PR has finally caught up to him: Those on the fence now stand against him until he agrees to fight and keeps the bout together in spite of slight differences over dollars and cents. 50-50, Floyd. If you want to make 65, make it 35-35 with the final 30% riding on the victory.

#2 Shane Mosley

Mosley approached Mayweather in the ring after Floyd won his fight against Juan Manuel Marquez…and considering who now promotes Mayweather and Mosley, I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if it were set up. Mosley is a great fighter, but he is a clear cut rung below Pacquiao when it comes to becoming half of a possible super fight. I have no problem with Shane getting an eventual shot at either man, but my fear is that he will be just dangerous enough and appealing to fight fans and just impressive enough in terms of resume-building that Mayweather will consider fighting him and retiring promptly afterward, again slipping out the backdoor of the building with the claim that he is the greatest of all time. However, this seems unlikely. Given the overwhelming amount of hype that is building around the bare prospect of Mayweather-Pacquiao, it seems unlikely that Mayweather will have anywhere else to go.

#3 Mayweather

I don’t think Floyd is looking to kill the fight (though his statements appear that way at first). All of the talk he does is for money; He’s actually very honest about his priorities. What I could see happening is Floyd’s ego growing so big that he can’t get close enough to negotiate. I know that this is close to reason number one, but there is an extra bit wrapped into ego. He not only thinks he is worth a certain amount of money. He also thinks he is worth a certain amount of time. The Boxing world wants to see him spend some of that time in the ring with Pacquiao… But I also want to win the lottery. We can’t always get what we want.

#4 Sanctioning Bodies

This one is a reach, but hear me out. Pacquiao is now the WBO Super Champion. To keep his belt, he has to fight a top contender at some point (Joshua Clottey is ranked number one).

You know what? Don’t hear me out. Manny Pacquiao doesn’t and shouldn’t care one bit about a stupid welterweight belt that’s barely worth the gym rubber it’s printed on. This fight will be for the Ring Pound for Pound Championship and never-ending greatness. After he fights Floyd, we’ll probably never see him in the ring again.

#5 Politics

I mean real politics, by the way, not the sort of nonsense that goes on between promoters on Sunday nights. Congress always gets its hands in something stupid, and I could see armed combat on the docket at some point in the future. Fortunately for us, that day is likely very far away, leaving plenty of time for the fight lobby to get its act together and make this stinking fight.

Source: ringsidereport.com

Pacquiao – Mayweather sets the stage for other big fight’s

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
BY: Albert Alvarez

First of all allow me to clear the air a bit on all the talk surrounding the SuperBowl Boxing Event that is truly a Godzilla Event in the making. Manny Pacquiao versus Floyd Mayweather Jr. When I first heard that the fight was really being discussed by both parties, my first question was, ”On what date?” I then kept hearing March 13th as the date. My initial reaction was, well now why would it happen so soon from now? I mean why not give it some time to really build this baby into an even bigger monster of an event?

Then I said to myself, well maybe the smashing of Roy Jones Jr. opened up the eyes of all parties involved and they all figured that it’s not worth it to risk having Pac-Man face a Yuri Foreman or a Edwin Valero before Money May. It just isn’t worth it to have Mayweather face the winner of the Mosley/Berto clash first before facing the Pac-Man. I then became tired of hearing my own questions, so what I did was contact a very reliable source in the Mayweather side and the source assured me that the rumors are very true. The fight really is being discussed heavily by both parties and March 13 so far seems to be the date. I guess everyones way of thinking in all this is to strike while the iron is hot. Below I name a few fights that should happen next, because let’s face it, the iron is hot and it’s time to strike.

Tavoris Cloud vs. Danny Green- Ok Ok, many will say that Green should now get a shot at Hopkins now that Green smashed Roy. Does Green now deserve that shot at Hopkins? Absolutely. Will it make for a good fight though, that is the question. Please don’t be fooled into thinking that the old man will also get knocked out by Green now that Green knocked out his Royness. I see a Hopkins/Green fight as a Hopkins/Pavlik type of lesson. Been there done that. Hopkins feasts on guys that come straight at him as Green surely would. Now if I’m a young lion in the making like Tavoris Cloud surely is, I would be rock hard right now. If Cloud wants to make a name for himself and build on his smashing performance over Clinton Woods, you do that by going after the man that is hot right now, the name that is comming out of everyones lips right now is Danny Green. Is Cloud to ”Green” for a Danny Green? Let’s find out.

Bernard Hopkins vs. Chad Dawson- Outside of Dawson, Maybe only a fight at heavyweight against David Haye would give the old man a true test. Bad Chad right now is starving for the shot to dethrone the living legend. Dawson has the speed and combination punching to sneek up on Hopkins. Then again though, maybe Hopkins finds a way to clutch Dawson enough to frustrate him and polish him off in the later rounds. Nobody likes playing the underdog more than Hopkins, against Dawson, Hopkins would once again find himself in that comfortable role that he is now very much used to.

Jean Pascal, or Allan Green vs. Lucian Bute- With all the big names and money fights currently off the board for Bute, where else does he turn to? With the stopage of Andrade, Bute now has 2 options. #1 stay at 168 and face the only real threat in your division available to you, that would be none other than Allan Green. Or #2 move on up to 175 and test the waters there. Next week if Pascal can get past Diaconu, Boy oh Boy, strap on your seatbelts because Bute/Pascal would sell out the Bell Centre in minutes flat. The Wreck in Quebec!

Pacquiao – Mayweather name the fight http://www.diamondboxing.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=1270

Latest Boxing News www.diamondboxing.com

Source: diamondboxing.com

Pacquiao stakes WBO title vs Floyd

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Updates
By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 06, 2009 12:00 AM

MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao’s WBO welterweight crown will be on the line against Floyd Mayweather Jr

This means that the fight, set on March 13, 2010, will be at 147 lb and nothing more as reports came out yesterday that Mayweather wants the fight held at 154 lb, and with 10 ounce gloves, not 8 ounce.

“That (154) is unrealistic because we agreed at 147. Manny’s title will be at stake,” said Pacquiao’s Canadian adviser Mike Koncz, the only other guy in the room when Pacquiao sat down with his promoter, Bob Arum, the other day.

During that meeting, the Filipino pound-for-pound champion agreed to face Mayweather on March 13, or barely 120 days after he destroyed Miguel Cotto in 12 rounds and won a record seventh world title in seven different weight divisions.

Reports also said Pacquiao agreed to a 50-50 split with Mayweather. But Koncz did not comment on this, saying it’s “confidential.” It’s not yet clear if both fighters have signed the fight contract.

MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao’s WBO welterweight crown will be on the line against Floyd Mayweather Jr
.

This means that the fight, set on March 13, 2010, will be at 147 lb and nothing more as reports came out yesterday that Mayweather wants the fight held at 154 lb, and with 10 ounce gloves, not 8 ounce.

“That (154) is unrealistic because we agreed at 147. Manny’s title will be at stake,” said Pacquiao’s Canadian adviser Mike Koncz, the only other guy in the room when Pacquiao sat down with his promoter, Bob Arum, the other day.

During that meeting, the Filipino pound-for-pound champion agreed to face Mayweather on March 13, or barely 120 days after he destroyed Miguel Cotto in 12 rounds and won a record seventh world title in seven different weight divisions.

Reports also said Pacquiao agreed to a 50-50 split with Mayweather. But Koncz did not comment on this, saying it’s “confidential.” It’s not yet clear if both fighters have signed the fight contract.

Source: philstar.com

Pacman to earn P2 billion vs Mayweather

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
By NICK GIONGCO
December 5, 2009, 8:19pm

Manny Pacquiao could earn as much as $40 million (roughly P2 billion) when he fights Floyd Mayweather on March 13, 2010, possibly in Las Vegas.

“I learned that Pacquiao’s guaranteed purse (for the Mayweather fight) is about $25 million and because the pay-per-view sales would be a success, Manny’s earning can go to as high as $40 million,” disclosed Pacquiao adviser Wakee Salud Saturday after the Filipino fighter himself revealed that the Mayweather fight is on.

Salud could not tell exactly how the profits are going to be divided but “a 50-50 sharing should be fair to both fighters.”

Against Miguel Cotto last month, Pacquiao was guaranteed a paycheck of $13 million but owing to the success of the pay-per-view sales that generated 1.25 million buys at $54.95 per subscription, the 30-year-old Pacquiao wound up getting $22 million.

Mike Koncz, the Canadian adviser of Pacquiao, who was the only one present when Pacquiao met with promoter Bob Arum on Friday morning, said the figures ended up "where we want it to be” and that everything is green and go for the 12-round fight that will see Pacquiao staking his World Boxing Organization welterweight crown.

“(The only way this is not pushing through is) if Mayweather chickens out of the fight,” Koncz said.

Arum was surprised over Pacquiao’s declaration that the fight is indeed happening next year but a formal joint announcement with Golden Boy Promotions (GBP) will be issued this coming week.

Arum said only “acts of God” or that “somebody acting like crazy” will prevent the fight from taking place.

GBP Chief Executive Officer Richard Schaefer, who is Oscar De La Hoya’s right-hand man, has been given authority by Mayweather to negotiate on his behalf. Mayweather has dealt with GBP on two occasions, both of them pay-per-view and box-office hits.

Because of time constraints, a plan to hold a promotional tour has been shelved but a major press conference will be held either January 11 or 12 in New York and that instead of the usual four-part 24/7 documentary show produced by HBO aimed at promoting the bout, Arum said there will be one additional episode that will be filmed.

Koncz said Pacquiao will likely set up camp once again in Baguio City before heading to the Wild Card in Hollywood a month or two or three weeks before the fight.

Arum, who flies back to the US tonight, said Pacquiao should get ready for the deluge of media from all over the world once he begins training in the City of Pines, the site of his preparation for the Cotto showdown.

Source: mb.com.ph

Manny Pacquiao Q&A: 'I Want to Fight Mayweather Very Badly'

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Online Live Streaming
12/05/2009 3:25 AM ET By Lem Satterfield

Manny Pacquiao spoke to FanHouse from the Philippines in what his advisor, Michael Koncz, said is the WBO welterweight champ's first interview -- and his initial comments to the American media -- since the start of the negotiations for a bout with Floyd Mayweather. All of this while traveling with Koncz to film a shoot for his upcoming super hero movie, "WaPak Man."

Pacquiao was reached while he and Koncz were traveling at 2:20 AM ET on Saturday -- and at approximately 3:20 PM in the Philippines, according to Koncz. Pacquiao shared his thoughts for about five minutes.

Koncz was also with Pacquiao (50-3-2, 38 knockouts) on Thursday when they had what he called a favorable, two-hour meeting with his promoter, Top Rank's Bob Arum, during their negotiations for the megafight with the unbeaten Mayweather (40-0, 25 KOs).

Mayweather had agreed to terms prior to Arum's 15-hour, Dec. 1 flight to the Philippines, but had not formally signed a contract for their historic bout.

Koncz said that while Pacquiao has also agreed to terms for their matchup, "we haven't signed anything, although we think that that is a formality. But that won't happen until the end" of negotiations.

Koncz said that he and Pacquiao decided, with Arum, that the clash would be fought on March 13, with eight ounce gloves, and at the welterweight (147-pound) level rather than at catchweight.

Mayweather was fined for coming in at two pounds over the 144-pound contracted weight for September's one-sided victory over Juan Manuel Marquez, and Cotto fought Pacquiao while competing at a weight of 145 pounds -- also the required maximum for their bout.

Arum told FanHouse early Friday morning that he had hoped to finalize the megabout between Mayweather, a five-time world champion, and Pacquiao, a seven-division titlist, next week.

This would all be done, said Arum, after meeting with Richard Schaefer of Golden Boy Promotions, who is negotiating on behalf of the 32-year-old Mayweather.

Site considerations for Mayweather-Pacquiao include Las Vegas, the Dallas Cowboys' stadium and the New Orleans Superdome. Arum, Schaefer and HBO's Ross Greenburg are expected to meet with Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones on Thursday, according to a source.

Las Vegas is also building a 30,000-seat outdoor stadium in the hopes of landing Mayweather-Pacquiao, and the gambling city's MGM Grand and the Thomas & Mack Center may also be considerations.

***

FanHouse: Did you officially sign the contract?

Manny Pacquiao: No, because there are still some things that need to be negotiated. That would be premature and foolish. Nobody ever brought us a contract to sign.

We agreed to everything in principle, but there are still some finer points that need to be negotiated.

Bob is going to take all of this back to Floyd Mayweather and then, hopefully, it will be all worked out. We believe that the deal will get done.

FH: So how badly do you want this fight?

Pacquiao: Of course, I want to fight Floyd Mayweather very badly. It's the fight that everyone wants to see.

And, of course, that's the fight that I want.

FH: How important are the eight-ounce gloves?

Pacquiao: That's a very important aspect of the negotiations to me. I really want to use the eight-ounce gloves.

FH: Are you concerned that your running for congress, a bid you lost in 2007, could affect your preparation or otherwise be a distraction for the March 13 fight?

Pacquiao: No. The first day that I can legally begin campaigning is March 26, and the fight -- being March 13 -- it will be over by then.

I'm going to be very focused for this fight.

FH: Are you confident that your filming the movie will not affect your ability to get into the gym and train for a quality amount of time?

Pacquiao: Yes, I am. I'm not worried about that. The filming of the movie will be completed on Dec. 9, and the movie is scheduled to be released on Christmas.

FH: Given your ruptured right eardrum and your reportedly broken right hand, your trainer, Freddie Roach, is concerned that the March 13 date may be too soon after fighting Miguel Cotto the Nov. 14. Will you be healed well enough to both train properly and be healthy to fight on March 13?

Pacquiao: I am fine. I will be healthy. My hand was only bruised, but there is not going to be a problem with it.

Also, my ear will not be a problem. I know my body, and I would never do anything to seriously jeopardize my health.

FH: Is there anything else that you would like to say about the negotiations, the fight, or to your fans?

Pacquiao: Just that I want to say thank you to all of the boxing fans, and I want to let them know that they should come out to see the fight.

I hope that if they can't be there at the fight, that everyone watches the fight [somewhere]. I really appreciate all of their support.

Source: boxing.fanhouse.com

Barry McGuigan: Trainer, matchmaker & kingmaker, that's Freddie Roach

By Barry Mcguigan

Matchmaking is almost as important as preparation.

In Freddie Roach, Amir Khan has the best of both worlds, a brilliant trainer and equally adept matchmaker.

You only have to look how Manny Pacquiao has prospered with Roach. Not just technically but in picking the right opponent at the right time.

Eyebrows were raised when the fight was made with Oscar De La Hoya. Ricky Hatton was thought to have a great chance, Miguel Cotto, too.

Pacquiao did exactly as Roach predicted. He blitzed them all.

Roach is probably looking two or three fights down the line for Khan.

He will see little to fear in Dmitriy Salita, the tough talking ex-pat Ukrainian from Brooklyn.

Salita was down in successive bouts at the end of 2005 and start of 2006, both in the opening round. He is particularly vulnerable to a right over the top.

Ramon Montano had him over twice. Salita got up to clinch a draw but many thought Montano won the fight.

None of Salita's opponents have been outstanding.

But he comes into the fight unbeaten in 31 bouts and must be respected. Salita has fast hands, even if his feet are not overly quick. They are too close together, which contributes to his ponderous style.

Khan is naturally filling into the weight, having moved up from lightweight.

The more time he spends with Roach, the better he gets.

I watched him working on the pads and his angles are improving noticeably. Roach will make him the best fighter he can be.

In the amateurs, coach Lee Pullen took the national team out to the world juniors. There was a French guy who looked amazing. He was beating up everybody. Khan was drawn to fight him next so Pullen took him along to watch his bout.

Pullen pointed out how the French kid dropped his left hand a little after throwing the jab.

Just as he brought it back to protect his chin, his left fell briefly about six inches. Khan had just turned 17. He spotted the mistake before Pullen.

Sure enough the French kid threw the jab as expected and dropped it a little as he took it back.

Khan banged over the right hand and knocked him out. Khan picks things up quickly. He has a fantastic aptitude for boxing. This is part of what makes him so exciting, and so special.

We know about his vulnerability. Salita believes he is chinny. He would say that.

The point is Khan has improved so much defensively under Roach. He is stronger and more comfortable at lightwelterweight.

Those three elements should see him home comfortably.

Salita does not punch hard enough to worry Khan. He is no Breidis Prescott.

He puts combinations together and is no less a puncher than Willie Limond.

If he catches Khan early it could be exciting, but I think Khan is too quick for him.

Andreas Kotelnik, who Khan saw off on points in July, has a better defence than Salita and more durability.

Khan has been in with boxers of greater pedigree. He is younger and getting better.

Salita is right in the slot for him tonight. And I doubt he will survive beyond the middle rounds.

Check Out My Website: www.barrymcguigan.com

Big Fight Odds: Khan 1-7, Salita 4-1, draw 25-1. Freephone: 0800 289 892

Source: mirror.co.uk

Source: Pacquiao agrees to 50-50 split

By Dan Rafael
ESPN.com

Manny Pacquiao has signed a contract to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. in boxing's biggest fight on March 13, a source with knowledge of the meeting told ESPN.com on Friday night.

Pacquiao and promotor Bob Arum met for two hours Friday to discuss the proposed deal, according to Pacquiao adviser Michael Koncz, who told The Associated Press that "Manny has some additional requirements, requests, which Arum didn't think was a problem.

"The requests of Manny were so realistic that Arum doesn't feel it's a problem and it's pretty much a done deal," Koncz said.

Later Friday it became a done deal, at least on the Pacquiao side, when he signed the paperwork, the source said.

Mayweather had previously agreed to terms with Golden Boy Promotions, his promoter for the HBO PPV fight, but it was unclear if he had signed a contract.

The source also disclosed other aspects of the fight, which will take place at the welterweight limit of 147 pounds for Pacquiao's title and match the top two fighters in the world, pound-for-pound.

The camps agreed to a 50-50 split of the money, which could be gargantuan. Many experts expect the fight to eclipse the all-time pay-per-view record for sales, which is the 2.44 million buys generated by Mayweather's 2007 victory against Oscar De La Hoya.

Both fighters will wear 8-ounce gloves but each fighter will be allowed to select the brand of gloves he will wear for the fight.

For promotional purposes, the bout will be referred to as Mayweather-Pacquiao, but Top Rank will receive first billing over Golden Boy throughout the promotion.

However, instead of a full-scale media tour, there will only be a single press conference in New York during the second week of January. With the schedule compressed because of the March 13 date for the fight, rather than May 1, which the promoters and HBO PPV preferred, it didn't leave time for a lengthy media tour.

The fight is going to take place March 13 because Pacquiao is running for a congressional seat in the Philippines and the elections are in May, which would have been a conflict between his training and the campaign.

Pacquiao will spend the first half of his training camp in Baguio in the Philippines, where he also trained for the first part of his camp in preparation for his 12th-round knockout victory against Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14. For the final few weeks of his training, Pacquiao and trainer Freddie Roach will relocate to Roach's Wild Card gym in Hollywood, Calif.

The site of the bout has not been finalized. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has expressed interest in bringing the fight to his new stadium as have representatives from the Superdome in New Orleans. Also in the mix is the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which has hosted several Pacquiao and Mayweather bouts. Arum has also received a proposal for a 30,000-seat temporary stadium on the Las Vegas Strip across from the Wynn resort.

Dan Rafael covers boxing for ESPN.com.

Source: ESPN.com

MARCH 13th? SAY IT AIN’T SO, MANNY

By Ed de la Vega, DDS
PhilBoxing.com
05 Dec 2009

The whole world is buzzing. The biggest fight ever in our generation is about to happen.

But, should it really be so soon?

Reports indicate that Bob Arum flew all the way to Manila and has sweet-talked Manny Pacquiao to accept the fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr., on March 13, 2010. All that needs to be done is iron-out details like glove size, fight weight and purse split.

Now, where the hell were Pacquiao’s highly paid “advisers” during that meeting?

Sleeping on the job?

No offense against the Bob Father. But, that date is too fast too soon.

People know that Arum is in the business of putting fights together and the Pacquiao-Mayweather tiff is no exception. Arum will put a fight together as long as the fighters and their advisers say yes. That is how he makes his money.

Arum, understandably so, is not terribly concerned about Pacquiao’s ear problem. OK he is, but that’s not a priority for him much less, his job. That is the responsibility of Pacquiao’s doctors.

However, his advisers (Koncz and Gacal) should make it their business to ask for the current medical situation of Pacquiao and make a decision from there as to what’s it best for Pacquiao.

These “advisers” should know better that agree with Pacquiao to accept March 13th. They should know when to say no and not just be simple “yes” men. Can’t they listen to Freddie Roach ( who is against the said date for medical reasons) even just for now?

Why advise Pacquiao to take the fight so soon when he is not yet fully healed from the damage he received in beating Miguel Cotto?

Word is, besides the cartilage damage on his right ear, Pacquiao has a “broken ear drum” as well. Some “broken ear drums heal in weeks, others in months. I am not privy to Pacquiao’s health status, but my guess is he is not fully healed and will take more time to do so.

Perhaps four months is enough to heal Pacquiao’s ear problems, but would it not be more prudent if he waited after the elections in May?

The ears have a lot to do with equilibrium. If Pacquiao is not fully healed, a single good hit on the same ear will cause an enormous amount of trouble. There will be pain and loss of balance, two things that can disadvantage a boxer during a fight.

Allowing Pacquiao more time to heal until September will be to his advantage. He can fight fair and square and will not have any distractions from the elections.

And on the side, it will be sweet to hear Michael Buffer introduce Pacquiao as “ the Congressman from Saranggani….Honorable Manny “Pacman” Pacquiaooooooo.!

So what if Mayweather is not available after May 10th. If Pretty Boy wants the money, he will make himself available. No doubt about that.

Darn if HBO does not have a date after May 10th. They are powerful enough and have enough money to produce a date. They can do it if they want! And, from the looks of it, they know how much the fight will generate in PPV so it does not take an Einstein to know that they will find a fight date no matter when.

Oh incidentally, September really looks good.

Another issue to address is “focus”.

Pacquiao as we all know is not a 100% sure bet to beat the Chiongbians on the May 10th Congressional elections.

Oh, not that he can’t win the elections. He has a chance that is better than good.

But he needs all the campaign time he can muster for his chances of winning to improve significantly. As they say in the Philippines, in elections “nothing is for sure”. And that holds true too even for the world’s top pound4pound boxer.

Remember, Pacquiao does not yet have the “political machine” close to the one developed by the Chiongbians in their long course of political history in Saranggani.

Thus if Pacquiao is really bent in winning, he needs to spend time in the campaign trail to negate the Chiongbian’s advantage. Plenty of time, in fact.

If he leaves that great responsibility to his people and so-called leaders to do it for him, no matter who says what, I am certain the results will be different.

Very different in fact and Pacquiao may not like them.

In addition perhaps more money will be spent unnecessarily. For all you know, some of that money will be unaccounted for as well. But, poor “accounting” is a given in Philippine politics..

And, if he is training for the March 13th fight, he will be away from the campaign trail. With that, Pacquiao will be constantly burden with the progress of the campaign. Thus, no matter what, “focus” will become an issue.

If that happens, there is a chance that he may lose from two fronts.

That is not acceptable!

Therefore, Pacquiao should really think this out. This is the time for his advisers to really earn their keep and convince Pacquiao that March 13th is not a good date to fight a guy like Mayweather.

The fight is not going anywhere. So does Mayweather. Many say it will happen come what may anyway. So what’s the rush?

Why take the risk of losing when it’s so simple to avoid the risk and come out on top.

Pacquiao should at this point just say no to March 13th and concentrate on getting elected as Congressman. Then, after the elections Arum and the rest of them can sit down with him and his advisers and hammer out the details for a fight with Mayweather.

No matter what and in spite of Mayweather threatening to fight someone else before Pacquiao, if and when Pacquiao comes calling the elections, Mayweather will still be there waiting.

And so does Arum and the rest of the players putting up the fight together.

Therefore, in so far as March 13th is concerned, Manny please say it ain’t so!

Source: PhilBoxing.com

Friday, December 4, 2009

Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Confirmation Video

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Online Live Streaming
Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Confirmation Video - Jim Monteverde interviews Teddy Atlas, Bert Sugar, Brian Kenny, Max Kellerman, and Bob Arum, as they provide the time and odds of the upcoming Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Fight.

Teddy Atlas: It's done. It's gonna be 1st week of May.

Bert Sugar: It's already made. It's an 8 to 5 Pacquiao favorite. It will be in the spring, that's all I can tell you (wink).

Brian Kenny: Floyd always say that if it makes dollars, it makes sense. This makes sense. I don't think either guy is trying to avoid the other. I think they are both wary, respectful of each other. But I think when they finally crunch the numbers, I think their egos, can step aside, and realize split it 50/50. 'Cause you gonna be splitting an all-time gate.

Max Kellerman: I won't make a prediction, about what's gonna happen. But I'll say that it will be the biggest fight in PPV history.

Bob Arum: There's one winner. Pacquiao by knockout.



Source: pacquiaovideo.com

Obstacles to Manny vs 'Money': weight, gloves, and more

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Online Live Streaming
Houston Boxing Examiner | Marv Dumon

WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao (50 - 3 - 2) has agreed to a March 13, 2010 super fight date with Floyd Mayweather, Jr (40 - 0), as conveyed by Pacquiao advisor Michael Koncz.

Weight and Gloves

1. Two major obstacles remain in the proposed clash that pits the sport's former pound for pound king (Mayweather, Jr) against the current pound for pound king (Pacquiao). Floyd Mayweather, Jr is insisting on a 154 pound junior middleweight limit, while Team Pacquiao is aiming for a 147 pound welterweight limit, according to Freddie Roach in an interview on Sky Sports.

2. Additionally, according to World Boxing Organization (WBO) rules, 10 oz gloves must automatically by used for 154 lb. junior middleweight bouts. The Mayweather camp wants to use 10 ounce gloves (otherwise called "pillows" in the industry) as opposed to the preferred 8 ounce ("puncher's") gloves of Manny Pacquiao, also as conveyed by Roach. The WBO stipulates that the harder-hitting 8 oz. gloves can only be used up to the 147 lb. welterweight limit, a regulation aimed at protecting bigger fighters from magnified blows to the head.

Pacquiao's last loss, which occurred in 2005 against Erik "El Terrible" Morales (first fight of the trilogy), caused controversy as a lack of contractual diligence led to the signing of the fight contract that stipulated the use of 10 oz gloves. Team Pacquiao would later argue that the results of the first Morales fight would have been different had then-manager Murad Muhammad negotiated for Pacquiao to wear his normal 8 oz ("puncher's") gloves.

Concerns for Pacquiao Camp

The most Pacquiao has ever weighed for a fight was 144 lbs in his most recent bout with Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto. The Filipino weighed in at 142 lbs against Oscar de la Hoya in December 2008.

Source: Examiner.com

PACQUIAO WATCH: The Ides of March

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
by Edwin Espejo

LOOKS like the made for heaven mega fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr is a done deal and it would be in March next year.

That means Manny will have all the days of December for rest and respite before again embarking on a grueling training to prepare against the pretender and contender to his throne as boxing’s pound for pound king.

In a 55-fight career that spanned closed to 15 years now, Manny has fought six times in the month of March, twice on a March 15 – the Ides of March. The day Julius Caesar was treacherously slain by members of the Roman Senate.

Manny lost just once when fighting in March – to Erik Morales via a unanimous decision defeat at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. It was on March 19, 3005. It was also the last of three losses in his career.

His latest March adventure was on March 15, 2008 when he battled Juan Manuel Marquez to a controversial split decision victory.

Before the Morales and Marquez fights, he also TKO’d Serikzhan Yeshmagambetovv of Kazakhstan on March 15, 2003, KO’s Arnel Barotillo in four rounds in March 2000, KO’s Mike Luna in one round in 1997 and won on points over Pinoy Montejo in just his second pro fight in 1995.

Manny and coach Freddie Roach have sixteen weeks from now to prepare their fight strategy and tactics although Roach has the more inside track against Mayweather Jr having been in the corner of Oscar de la Hoya when the two clashed in the highest grossing fight in boxing outside the heavyweight division in 2007.

Oscar was keeping Mayweather at bay with his jabs in the early going before fading in the latter rounds to lose by split decision.

This prompted Roach to say that de la Hoya could no longer pull the trigger. Two years later, he proved prophetic as his ward Manny Pacquiao systematically broke down de la Hoya over eight rounds before the Golden Boy of boxing finally quit on his stool.

Manny has fought a variety of top flight boxers - from sluggers to ring tacticians.

In Floyd, he will find a complete boxer - a slick counter puncher with power on both hands and the best defense in the business today to boot.

While recent KO victim Miguel Angel Cotto may be the hardest puncher Pacquiao ever met, Floyd poses a different look.

Floyd has the speed and guile to match Manny’s explosiveness and aggressiveness.

This one will be a hell of a fight.

Let us wait and see who will play the Caesar and the members of the Roman Senate.

Who will get slain on the Ides of March (at least near it) next year?

Did I say the Ides of March is also my birthday?

Source: asiancorrespondent.com

Raining on the Pacquiao - Mayweather Jr. announcement

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Updates
Providence Boxing Examiner | Joseph Roche

What a joyous occassion today has been in the boxing world. I mean ESPN reported "it." Yahoo Sports reported "it" hell even I reported "it" on a different site. The "it" that I refer to obviously is the agreement that Manny Pacquiao would fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. in what would likely be the biggest money making fight in boxing history. It has been the biggest story in the industry today because it is a fight that pits the two fighters recognized as the pound for pound best against one another. Unfortunately in all the excitement surrounding the announcement I think some people missed a few important aspects of "it" that lead me to believe that "it" isn't anywhere near as close to complete as you may believe.

Allow me to rain on your parade for a moment if I might.

This is the direct quote concerning the "announcement" from GMANews.tv which is a Filipino news source that tends to get their Manny Pacquiao news correct.

"Pacquiao said he agreed for the March 13 mega-fight with Mayweather and instructed Arum to iron out all details in order for both boxers to finally seal the deal.

Arum will still negotiate the details of the contract, like the weight where they will be fighting and the purse split, with Golden Boy’s Richard Schaeffer, whom Mayweather has tapped to deal with the camp of the seven-division world champion."

Did you catch that?

According to the source that was actually present when Manny made the "announcement" the only minor details that need to be ironed out are weight, location and purse split. For those of you who don't know much about boxing let me explain something -- other then weight, location and purse split the only thing that I imagine could have been agreed upon is that March 13th is a date in 2010 when there could be a fight, and both Pacquiao and Mayweather are boxers who could fight one another.

Perhaps that's too simplistic. Let me break it down this way -- Arum and Richard Schaeffer met a week after Pacquiao's victory over Miguel Cotto. Thus the groundwork was laid between Bob Arum and Floyd Mayweather's camp before it was presented to Manny Pacquiao. Everyone and their mother knows that Mayweather will not fight at a 145 pound catchweight, so a bout between the two MUST take place at the 147 pound welterweight limit. I believe that everyone also agrees there is no chance that Floyd Jr. accepts a 60/40 (or even 55/45) purse split.

Do you see where the problem lies? What we know about Pacquiao is that his last fight against a true welterweight was at 145 pounds, Freddie Roach has said that a fight with Mayweather would have to take place at 145 pounds -- and we know that Floyd ain't fighting at 145 pounds. We also know that there is simply no chance that Pacquiao - who did better PPV numbers then Mayweather in their respective last times out will take a smaller percentage of the purse split then Junior receives.

Which tends to show that if Bob Arum left a meeting with Pacquiao without ironing out the weight, and the purse split -- then there is ABSOLUTELY NO DEAL YET! Did I stress that enough? Arum knows exactly what Mayweather wants, because he's already met with Mayweather's people. If Pacquiao didn't agree to weight, that means that there is no agreement for the fight at 147 -- the ONLY weight that Floyd Jr. would fight Pacquiao at -- are you starting to see the problem with the whole "agreement" yet?

It's also clear that there is no agreement on the purse split, which you have to assume was presented to Pacquiao as a 60/40 Mayweather split or a 50/50 direct split because nothing else would've come out of Floyd Jr.'s mouth. Which means if Pacquiao didn't agree to either of those numbers, and Floyd the stubborn man that he is would NEVER take less then Pacquiao in this fight -- folks we have a major hang up.

Look, I want to see Floyd Jr. and Manny Pacquiao fight in 2010 as much as the next guy and I do believe that it's going to happen. The fight is worth far to much money to far to many people to not get done. Pacquiao's senate run won't interfer because even he admits that campaigning won't begin until April (giving him plenty of time to fight in March), and regardless of what Freddie Roach says the March 13th date is still well in play because as long as Pacquiao can get into camp by the middle of next month he will be fine.

But saying purse split and weight haven't been decided are minor details is like saying that you've planned a trip to London that leaves in an hour and the only minor details you've overlooked are booking a flight and getting a hotel room. These are major issues that still need to be ironed out -- hell they are the MAJOREST (most major?) issues between the two fighters. I can't even begin to fathom how anyone thinks this fight is signed, sealed and delivered already just because Manny Pacquiao has agreed that if he fights on March 13th, Floyd Mayweather Jr. is an opponent he'd be willing to fight (and the feeling was reciprocated).

I have a very strong feeling that the fight will get made. I think that the two sides will now spend the next three weeks or so hammering out the details and we'll get a good deal made one way or another. The fight will take place at 147 pounds there is no doubt in my mind. Just taking how dominant Pacquiao was against Cotto as an example there is little argument to be made that Pacquiao can't just stay at the weight he fought Cotto and fight a true 147 pounder, and Floyd won't fight him at a catchweight there is just no chance of that happening. I'd also say the purse split goes 50/50 or 45/45 with the last 10 going to the winner of the bout, and Floyd will get top billing stateside, while Manny gets top international billing. I honestly don't see any ground giving way on either side from those stipulations but the key point is that NONE of that has been ironed out yet so before everyone puts a down payment on the PPV for March 13th lets see this thing play out first.

SIDE NOTE: Am I the only one a bit concerned that the "insider source" from the Pacquiao camp happens to be Michael Koncz? (UPDATE 6:55 PM/EST) For those who don't understand my Koncz remark here you might want to check out Dan Rafael's ESPN.com article about the fight and count how many direct quotes came out of the "gagged" Pacquiao associate.

Source: Examiner.com

Manny Pacquiao roars: Bring it on, Floyd Mayweather!

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
NY Boxing Examiner | Michael Marley

No stalling, no balking and no squawking.

When his seen it all, done it all, turning age 78 this Tuesday promoter Robert Arum came to Manila with terms and conditions already agreed by Floyd Mayweather Jr., Manny Pacquiao listened to the Top Rank honcho carefully.

Pacman asked a few questions, made a few comments and finally gave the promoter a greenlight, the verbal authority to push forward to a written contract for the Fight of the Century on March 13, most likely I say in Las Vegas.

Some think there will be continued squabbling over the contract weight, be it at 154 pounds or something less than, somewhere between 147 and 154.

I say, why so? Pacman was pondering fighting WBA junior middleweight champion Yuri Foreman so obviously the mountain of money for Mayweather overrides any weight issue.

Isn’t this no nonsense, warrior spirit exactly what we love about Megamanny?

Isn’t this if the money is right, I will fight King Kong tonight attitude what we really treasure?

Isn’t it, as I continue with rhetorical questions, the same Street Fighting Man mentality that we so loved about similar gladiators, all time greats such as Roberto Duran and Julio Cesar Chavez?

Isn’t this, boiled down, the essence of what makes Pacman Pacman?

Now look, I agree with free speaking trainer Coach Freddie Roach that Manny should have given himself the holiday period off, that he could’ve and should’ve demanded this Super Fight be delayed until May.

Sometimes we forget that Manny, Li’l Floyd, all of them, are human beings and not Clydesdale workhorses.

I don’t know about the Earie Doctirne, that Pacman needs to let his roughed up by the Miguel Cotto Nov. 14 bout ear heal, and whether that’s a valid reason to delay Mayweather a mere two months, into May.

But what about the mental grind? I’m getting tired thinking of pushing on and I only have to write every day, not run and train like Pacquiao does. I’d have to write 30 columns a day to match his workrate.

Now Pacman’s holiday fun and frolic must be severely limited because the 10 weeks after January 1 will be spent putting his nose to the Coach Roach grindstone.

I guess we’ll know around midnight (New York time) and Sunday noon (Manila time) on March 13 and 14 whether Roach’s protective impulse about Pacman needing a bit of break was right.

Regardless, with the return volley to the Mayweather camp done quietly and quickly, Pacman continues to talk softly but carry a big stick and I don’t mean the thick Thai lumber that he gets whacked on the legs with at the gym.

Message From Manny to Floyd: Bring it on!

And all I hear from Mayweatherville is the sounds of silence.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-5699-NY-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m12d4-Manny-Pacquiaos-roaring-response-to-Floyd-Mayweather-Bring-it-on

Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr. mega-fight is on, reports say

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
By Lance Pugmire

The news of a March 13 bout catches Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, by surprise, but he says 'we'll be ready.'

Reports today that a mega-fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. will go ahead on March 13 -- after the Filipino star agreed to a proposal by his promoter -- caught some by surprise, including Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach.

"We're happy it could be happening, but I'm surprised it's happened so quick," Roach told The Times today from Britain, where he's preparing another of his boxers for a bout.

The man who knows better than anyone where things stand on a possible Pacquiao-Mayweather fight, Pacquiao's promoter, Bob Arum, was not available for comment this morning.

Pacquiao's U.S. business advisor, Michael Koncz, told the Associated Press today that Arum presented "what he thought was the best proposal he can bring" during a two-hour breakfast meeting with Pacquiao in Manila.

"Manny has some additional requirements, requests, which Arum didn't think was a problem," Koncz told the AP "The requests of Manny were so realistic that Arum doesn't feel it's a problem, and it's pretty much a done deal."

He said the contract still needs "fine tuning," declining to elaborate. "We all believe that it will be done," Koncz said.

Roach is already thinking of the matchup between the two star welterweights. "It'll be a very tactical fight; we'll have to be smart because Floyd's such a good counter-puncher," he said. "I don't think Floyd can hurt us, though, so we can be aggressive in the right spots."

Koncz, who is in charge of Pacquiao's boxing promotion company in Nevada, said Pacquiao is "very comfortable" with the date.

In an interview with a television network in the Philippines, Pacquiao said, "March 13 is OK."

Roach said earlier this week that he thought March 13 was too soon for the fight, after Pacquiao suffered an injured right ear drum in his 12th-round technical knockout victory over Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14.

"I also thought they'd want more time to promote it, but if they can do it then, we'll be ready," said Roach, who plans to speak with Arum and Pacquiao when he returns to his Wild Card Gym in Hollywood on Monday. "Arum knows what he's doing.

"I'd want to start training camp with Manny by Jan. 1."

Today, Richard Schaefer, chief executive of Golden Boy Promotions, who's negotiating on behalf of Mayweather, said, "The only comment we will have is when there's a signed deal or if negotiations fall apart. Good news and bad news, neither one has happened."

Pacquiao has previously said he didn't think the deal would get done, and he chided Mayweather for depriving the fans of action and caring most about lucrative paydays. "The difference between Floyd and others I have fought is that Floyd makes a lot of trash talk that should not be imitated by young people," Pacquiao told the Filipino television network.

A possible showdown between the unbeaten Mayweather (40-0) and the dynamic Pacquiao (50-3-2) has generated great interest in the sporting world.

Pacquiao is poised to capture his second straight "fighter of the year" honor, supplanting Mayweather as the man considered the world's best pound-for-pound fighter after Mayweather took an extended break after knocking out Ricky Hatton in December 2007.

Pacquiao ended the career of Oscar De La Hoya last year, he knocked out Hatton in the second round in May, then impressively battered Cotto in a bout that generated 1.25 million pay-per-view buys.

Mayweather-Pacquiao is expected to challenge the record 2.4 million buys set by Mayweather-De La Hoya in May 2007. Venues including Jerry Jones' Cowboys Stadium in Texas, a 30,000-seat outdoor site constructed by hotel magnate Steve Wynn in Las Vegas and the MGM Grand in Las Vegas are reportedly bidding to host the super-fight.

Source: LATimes.com

Roach: Mayweather knows Pacquaio can walk through him

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
NY Boxing Examiner | Michael Marley

I tracked down global gypsy and Manny Pacquiao trainer-guru Coach Freddie Roach to a smoky, noisy bar inside the Newscastle Hilton Hotel late Friday night.

Roach sends his young charge and WBA junior welterweight champ Amir Khan, the Bolton Bomber, into the ring in Newcastle On Thyne Saturday night against talking big, unbeaten challenger Dimitriy Saleta (Brooklyn, New York).

As far as you Paclanders having any worries about the Pacquiao-Mayweather Super Fight Express Train, bound for destiny on March 12, without Coach Roach’s full approval, rest easy.

Roach has been very firm in saying he preferred a May fight date, the better for Megamanny to heal up from any cuffing he took in stopping Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14.

But Pacquiao, as revealed to me by Bob Arum speaking by phone from Manila Firday morning (NY time), has given a full greenlight to his promoter to close the deal with undefeated Mayweather for March 13.

There’s even a Big Apple massive presser set for Jan. 11.

No problem, sayeth Coach Roach from Old Blighty.

“If Manny says yes, if Manny is OK with the March 13 date, then certainly I am also,” Roach said.

“We will have to start training right after New Year’s Day so that we get our customary 10 weeks in. I guess we will have a month in the Philippines followed by the remainder at my (Wild Card, Hollywood) gym.

“I really like it when Manny stays so active, when there is not much down time. He stays sharp and that is good.”

Roach said he also thinks minimizing Manny’s political distractions would benefit the fighter.

As far as competing against a proven Hall Of Fame lock candidate who has yet to be whipped, Roach is not trembling in his booties.

“We see flaws in Mayweather,” Roach said. “Sure, he is great defensively but we see some flaws which we can exploit.

“Whether it’s those shoulder rolls or anything else, defense does not win fights completely. We know what we can do against Mayweather. I know Manny can’t be hurt by Mayweather and Mayweather knows it also.

“Manny can walk right through anything Mayweather throws. So what happens then we shall see.”

On the upcoming Congressional campaign in Sarangani Province, Roach said having it in the back of his mind won’t deter Manny’s fight preparation.

“I do think it helps that the election campaign goes on after this key fight. We can have as good if not a better training camp than we had for the last fight.”

Roach is fully on board the Mayweather-Pacquiao Express and ready to roll.

That collective sign of relief you hear is millions of Paclanders exhaling.

PS. Remember to visit theboxingtruth.com every Sunday at 6pm Pacific Standard Time, 10 am Mondays on the Phillippines as I'll be on the internet radio waves dissecting all that is Pacquiao-Mayweather!

Source: Examiner.com

Manny Pacquiao lines up $50m feast of a fight with Floyd Mayweather

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
Kevin Mitchell

Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr, acclaimed as the two best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, have agreed in principle to split $50m (£30.3m) up front in a fight scheduled for 13 March at an American venue yet to be decided.

No contracts have been signed, according to Pacquiao's financial adviser Michael Koncz, who says that there is "fine-tuning" to be done in negotiations yet. But such is the hunger for what is potentially the biggest money-spinner in boxing history, that the pressure to reach an agreement will be intense. Total revenue, including pay-per-view, could hit $150m.

Possible venues are the Superdome in New Orleans, the new Dallas Cowboys' stadium, the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and a yet-to-be-built 30,000-seat stadium near the Wynn casino down the Strip from the MGM.

Bob Arum, the veteran promoter who has put on some of the biggest fights of the last quarter of a century, is the man conducting talks with Mayweather's people on behalf of Pacquiao. He presented the details of his discussions so far to Pacquaio over breakfast in Manila today .

"Manny has some additional requirements, requests, which [Bob] Arum didn't think was a problem," Koncz said. "The requests of Manny were so realistic that Arum doesn't feel it's a problem and it's pretty much a done deal. We all believe that it will be done."

Pacquiao told the local GMA TV, "13 March is OK. The difference between Floyd and others I have fought is that Floyd makes a lot of trash talk that should not be imitated by young people."

There are, as ever, obstacles. Not the least of these is the stubbornness of the principles. They are both notoriously difficult to deal with. Mayweather has not adopted the nickname "Money" for show. The timing is also problematical. Such an early date leaves only the bare minimum time for the promoters to sell the fight.

HBO, which will carry it, will want to promote the bout with its trademark 24/7 reality series, backgrounders on the lives and preparations of each fighter and their families. It is compelling – and time-consuming. Pacquiao and Mayweather will have to fit their training schedules around filming and a welter of press conferences as HBO seeks to maximise pay-per-view hits. It could turn into a logistical nightmare.

It seems that Pacquiao has set the date – as he is running for a congressional seat in May, and will launch his campaign in April.

Source: guardian.co.uk

Does a March 13th date favor Mayweather or Pacquiao?

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Updates
Pittsburgh Fight Sports Examiner | Scott Heritage

The super fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather is seemingly going ahead on March 13th. No official word has been given yet, but sources everywhere are saying that the announcement is only a matter of time.

With that being the case, the pressing issue now becomes whether a March 13th date favors either fighter over the other.

On first impression, the date seemingly further stacks the odds against Manny Pacquiao, who is still recovering from a damaged ear drum from his fight with Miguel Cotto. Manny's trainer Freddie Roach also said earlier this week that he thinks a March fight is too soon for Pacquiao, particularly with his injury obviously affecting his balance and stopping sparring until fully healed.

Although most boxing fans seem to be backing Pacquiao to win the fight, make no mistake about it, this will be the toughest fight he has ever had. Floyd isn't going to stand and trade punches with Manny, and he won't let him unload any of his power shots without making him pay for it first. Mayweather is also the bigger man, albeit with less punching power, and as usual will look to make his size advantage count.

This is all obviously countered by the advantages that Manny has over Floyd, but given that the fight will be so close, the smallest advantage for either fighter could be enough to make a big difference during the fight. If Manny rushes back into training and damages his ear again from example the fight will have to be called off anyway. Similarly if he hasn't allowed proper healing to take place, the first punch Floyd lands might deafen Manny in one ear and throw his timing and balance off. Obviously these are worst case scenarios, but for a fight this big they arent a good idea to gamble on.

Pacquiao will undoubtedly come into the fight in excellent shape and with several game plans up his sleeves, but if Roach says he needs more time, then its generally best to listen to him. While the fans are hoping for the fight to happen as soon as possible, Manny has no obligation to take the fight until he is good and ready, other than his pathalogical desire to please the public.

The last advantage Floyd get from a March dats is that he isnt forced to take another fight between now and a Pacquiao showdown. Rumors abound of fights with the lightly regarded Matthew Hatton, the kind of fight that would only serve to further damage Floyd's claims to be the best.

The only obvious advantage that Manny has by taking the fight in March seems to be that he might be able to ride the wave of attention that the fight will garner to get more votes in his election. Not only this but with this fight out of the way Manny can concentrate on his political career for a while before being pressured into taking his very last fight.

The March date does seem to benefit both fighters in some ways as well however. Firstly both fighters should be able to have access to their respective trainers, who are both in legal trouble or varying degrees.

Supposing the fight goes ahead in Las Vegas in an outdoor arena, March should also be a lot better for both fighters in terms of weather. A late summer date could mean fighting in 100 degree weather, which would obviously take a toll on both fighters should the fight make it into the later rounds. The temperature of course would adversely affect them both the same, although the fight itself will benefit from both fighters being able to stay at full speed for the duration of the bout.

Source: Examiner.com

Why I Believe Floyd Is Bluffing And Wants To Duck Pacquiao

Pacquiao vs Mayweather News
Published by Scoop Malinowski on December 4th, 2009

Michael Bentt once told me “Boxing is 90% bluffs.” Pretty strong quote there, right? Pretty reliable and credible source too, right? You better believe the WBO Heavyweight champion Michael Bentt knows what he’s talking about.

Well, Floyd Mayweather has already cost the sport some great fights – with Margarito, Cotto and Mosley – and do not forget all the excuses and reasons he recently gave us to sidestep Manny Pacquiao – Pac lost by KO twice, he beat Marquez more clearly, it’s a no win situation. Floyd has shown actions that he really doesn’t want to mess with Pacquiao who has everything – youth, speed, power, the adoration and love of the public, fearlessness, brutality – that Floyd has carefully avoided over the last three years.

Now suddenly Floyd supposedly has agreed on terms and is basically giving Pacquiao an ultimatum to take the fight in March – or as Bob Arum insists – the fight will never happen. And Floyd will declare victory if Pac decides he can’t get ready for March.

If Floyd really wants the fight and really truly has given the greenlight, why then would March be the only date he will do it? Earlier in the week Money’s advisor was crowing that March ain’t enough time to maximize profits. With all the money at stake, and if Floyd REALLY and TRULY wants the fight, why isn’t he open to April, May, June or July or August September. Ellerbe has said over and over Floyd’s given the greenlight and wants the fight. But by insisting on March it seems that’s a red light.

And you have to consider it possible that Floyd really doesn’t want the fight, like he might be hoping Pac will decide he won’t be rushed into March. It’s almost like Floyd is trying to intimidate Pacquiao here with this bullying show of confidence.

But don’t forget, Floyd showed us all those excuses, he tried to downplay Pacquiao in that BBC interviews after the Cotto fight.

Until this sudden appearance that Floyd has agreed to terms and will be ready for March, Floyd has been making the excuses, same as he did when Margarito, Cotto and Mosley tried to fight him.

When Floyd really wants a fight you know it. You know when he has no fear or worries. Like before Gatti, Floyd just kept saying over and over how easy it will be, how Gatti is a D level fighter, a punching bag. It was the same thing with Hatton, how Ricky was all beaten up with scar tissue and it would be easy. I have all these quotes. Also it was that way with Oscar and Baldomir. All these fights Floyd knew would be easy, there were never any excuses or hesitations from Floyd. But with Margarito, Cotto, Mosley and too an extent with Pacquiao, Floyd has shown reluctance and hesitation to get it on. “He knows he can’t beat me. What has he done to deserve a fight with me. He has five losses. He don’t bring shit to the table. I’m bored with boxing. I might go to MMA. My body is breaking down.”

So all the sudden we are to believe that Floyd wants to fight Pacquiao? No. No. No. I believe it’s a bluff. I believe Floyd is banking on the hope that Pacquiao will decline March and with his big mouth will take that as a victory.

I believe Bob Arum realizes this and is trying to convince Pacquiao to accept the March date.

Pacquiao must accept. Then we will see if Floyd really truly wants the fight.

Floyd Mayweather is a very talented fighter but I still have many doubts and suspicions about his desire to fight the riskiest, most dangerous opponents. I know for a fact Floyd did not even want to fight Cotto, and look what happened to Cotto. Floyd has to be worried about the complicated dangers Pacquiao presents, underneath his bluffing and posturing. We have never seen Floyd tackle a prime young monster challenge at 147. And until we do, doubts will remain.

If Floyd has been playing us all along and does want to fight Pacquiao and shows dazzling skills in March and wins the fight, there could be no doubt or question that he is truly a great, great champion.

But the percentage opinion, based on all of Floyd’s inconsistent and hypocritical actions over the last three years strongly suggest he has some kind of fear and aversion to testing his skills against a prime, strong, fast, explosive, confident, fearless top welterweight. Pacquiao is the most ruthless, most vicious and most formidable rival there has been for Floyd to fight. Until he steps in the ring with Pacquiao, I don’t care what he says, everything about Floyd is still a question mark. He is not the best until he beats the best.

And in his own mind, I don’t think Floyd really believes he is the best. How could he? It is unknown and will remain unknown until he fights the best.

Paul Williams articulated a strong point in our interview on Wednesday. “Pacquiao’s more hot (than Floyd) right now. I respect what Mayweather is doing but Pacquiao right now, he hot. He’s real hot. He’s been beating everybody, going through em. And he throws a lot of punches. So I’d like to put my skills against his skills.” Williams is a true champ. He is fearless and wants to put his skills up to the riskiest challenge. Floyd has shown reluctance to put his skills on the line against the best – until suddenly this week he wants to supposedly fight Pacquiao in March.

Roy Jones went through the same thing. He hit a point where he became Reluctant Roy and didn’t want to fight the best. For years he feasted on mismatches and consequently lost his edge, stopped improving, until when a young prime hungry confident challenger came along, forced a reluctant Roy to face him and Roy got knocked out. I believe all the years of easy fights have similarly stopped Floyd from improving and his skills have actually declined and stagnated. He really wasn’t that special looking against Oscar, Baldomir and Marquez. On the other hand, Pacquiao has been improving each fight, each step up in weight. Each fight he has been looking more and more spectacular.

Yes, I stronly believe Floyd is bluffing. I believe Floyd is pretending to want to fight Pacquiao in March. And we do know Floyd will tell lies – remember he told Rugged RA that he earned $12 million for Baldomir and that Bob Arum doesn’t want to do business with him. It’s a fact, Floyd will tell outright, outrageous lies. Floyd will deceive. I believe he is feigning confidence to fight in March. And Arum and Pacquiao, if they are sharp enough, won’t fall for it. We shall see.

Also, if you would like to know who the source was that assured me on Wednesday, repeatedly that Mayweather vs. Pacquiao isn’t gonna happen…it was George Peterson, trainer and manager of Paul Williams. And let me tell you, George Peterson is the type of straight shooter who won’t BS you. He has told me things off the record before and I’ve honored that. But he did not say “It’s not gonna happen,” was off the record. And George Peterson is quite close with Floyd advisor Al Haymon, who also advises Paul Williams.

Source: boxinginsider.com