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Thursday, December 17, 2009
Jones: 'It would be a spectacle'
By Dan Rafael
ESPN.com
Archive
Before Jerry Jones bought the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 and became one of the best-known owners in the NFL, he dabbled in boxing promotion, putting on a card in Little Rock, Ark., in the mid-1980s.
Now, 20-plus years later, Jones has his sights set on one a bit bigger -- the March 13 HBO PPV megafight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., the nearly finalized and much-anticipated showdown that many expect to shatter the numerous revenue and pay-per-view records set by Mayweather's 2007 fight with Oscar De La Hoya.
Jones wants to be part of it. He is pushing promoters Bob Arum of Top Rank and Richard Schaefer of Golden Boy hard to bring the fight to Cowboys Stadium, the new $1.2 billion state-of-the-art facility.
“
To use my football experience, 99 percent of your time is spent striving for something and being disappointed. But it's events like this that you strive for. You take all the hard knocks and that makes it all worth it, and that's how I feel about the fight.
” -- Jerry Jones
Jones has been interested in boxing since he was a boy, and boxed for fun at the North Little Rock Boys Club.
"I'm a longtime boxing fan," Jones told ESPN.com during a half-hour interview Thursday, the first time he has publicly discussed his desire to host boxing's biggest event.
Jones made it clear he wants the bout.
"It would be a spectacle," he said. "It would be one that would really put the eyes of this country on boxing."
Jones is not half-hearted in his attempt to land the fight. He's putting his money where his mouth is, offering a $25 million site fee, the largest guarantee ever put up for a fight.
"I don't know that there's been a decision made yet as we speak, but I know that we have put our hat in the ring with a significant financial commitment. I don't want to give the numbers, but it's as credible as you could imagine. You won't be wrong," he said when asked about the widely reported $25 million figure. "But I don't want to get into something that would impact fragile negotiations."
Top Rank and Golden Boy have received inquiries and offers from venues around the world, including the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which has hosted numerous Pacquiao and Mayweather bouts and appears to be the frontrunner. But there has also been interest from venues in New Orleans, Atlanta, Miami, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dubai and a $20 million offer from Staples Center in Los Angeles.
One by one, they have fallen by the wayside for one reason or another, except for Las Vegas and Dallas, whose bid Jones has kept alive with that big offer and persistence.
"To use my football experience, 99 percent of your time is spent striving for something and being disappointed," Jones said. "[But] it's events like this that you strive for. You take all the hard knocks and that makes it all worth it, and that's how I feel about the fight."
Mayweather
Mayweather
Pacquiao
Pacquiao
When Jones built the stadium, using about $450 million in public funds, with the rest coming from his personal fortune, he wanted to host major fights as part of its offerings. Besides Cowboys games, the stadium is scheduled to host the annual AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic, the 2010 NBA All-Star Game, the 2011 Super Bowl and the 2014 NCAA men's basketball Final Four, as well as high school and college football games, concerts and other events. Pacquiao-Mayweather is one of the events he covets.
"From the get-go we envisioned in our planning about potentially having significant fights," Jones said. "We have a huge Hispanic sports interest in this area, for instance, and I am well aware of their love for boxing. I do envision having significant fights of the quality and magnitude of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao."
One of the reasons is the capacity. While the MGM Grand seats roughly 16,500 for a fight, with an additional 40,000 closed-circuit seats potentially available in Las Vegas, Cowboys Stadium could hold 100,000-plus, and Jones believes he could pack the place.
Jones said his promotions department would work along with the promoters and HBO to generate an enormous crowd. "Look at the capacity of the stadium," he said. "We could create tremendous numbers for the fight. We think that the visibility of the venue, the fact that our venue is going to be home to a Super Bowl and many big events in the future would add an element of interest to fans across the country and world that are looking at the pay-per-view and feeling vicariously what it must be like to be there with 90,000 or 100,000 people watching a fight.
"I know the NFL can't be just a studio game. It has to have the pageantry. [The viewers] have to know that there are thousands of people there creating an atmosphere. I think our stadium can add an element to the promotion. I know first-hand that HBO thinks so."
Besides drawing one of the biggest crowds in boxing history, Jones believes the stadium will add to the pay-per-view numbers.
"I think our stadium would increase public interest in the fight," he said. "We know first-hand that events can be enhanced by people wanting to come and see the venue, but I think it will also create interest in viewing the fight on pay-per-view."
Because the stadium is home to the world's largest (and, at $40 million, the most expensive) HD video board, Jones said every fan, whether they're seated in one of the hundreds of luxury suites, at ringside or in the upper deck, would have a good view of the action.
“
Here's the thing -- I know that Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao would love to be part of the most-attended modern fight in American history. It would be quite a feather in their cap to be the substance behind that. We have the ability to make that happen.
” -- Jerry Jones
The video board is 72 feet high and 160 feet wide, and would be lowered to about 65 feet above the ring.
"You'll see the action in real time with the eight Sony digital cameras," Jones said. "You'll be able to see a sweat bead from any place. More important, you can see it from every angle. Wherever you're sitting, you'll see the action from the angle where you are sitting. The boxers will be [72]-feet tall. It's a dramatic way to watch any event. It will be an experience for 100,000 people."
Jones said it would also be historic for the fighters.
"Here's the thing -- I know that Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao would love to be part of the most-attended modern fight in American history," Jones said. "It would be quite a feather in their cap to be the substance behind that. We have the ability to make that happen. I have such respect for fighters and people who compete. Just think how it would feel for the greatest fight ever to draw the biggest crowd in modern America? That's something you tell your grandchildren about."
Jones said he talked with the promoters during the weekend and believes he has a good chance to land the fight.
"You have multiple constituencies so you don't know if you have a deal until it's agreed to, but yes, I think we are [still in the hunt]," he said. "There's tremendous value here. I think the fight has the ability to transcend boxing and the size of the crowd and facility is part of that. You build brands with brands. When you have an association with successful brands like the Cowboys and the NFL, it lifts all boats. I don't want to be presumptuous, but boxing has a chance to elevate itself. Shouldn't you look at what you can gain in your association with a brand like NFL football? When they throw the first punch in Cowboys Stadium it will inextricably be associated with the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys."
Schaefer, Arum and HBO Sports president Ross Greenburg were supposed to visit the stadium and meet with Jones last Tuesday. However, Schaefer canceled the night before, forcing the visit to be called off.
The reason, according to sources, was not because the Mayweather side didn't want the fight in Dallas, but rather because they felt the deal for the bout was not close enough to being done to warrant a visit to a potential site if the fight might collapse.
Jones said whatever the reason was, he didn't take it personally.
"Not a bit," Jones said. "I was disappointed and I had changed plans to see them, but I'll use a football analogy: You just keep plugging. We want to do this fight. I didn't pout. But I sure want them to see the venue. It's important they see the venue. I saw Pacquiao's last fight [against Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14] and that was something, and Mayweather I have seen fight. In the last 10 years there hasn't been a more competitive, interesting fight.
"It would be magical when that first bell rings. It would be something to have that fight here."
Dan Rafael covers boxing for ESPN.com.
Source: sports.espn.go.com
ESPN.com
Archive
Before Jerry Jones bought the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 and became one of the best-known owners in the NFL, he dabbled in boxing promotion, putting on a card in Little Rock, Ark., in the mid-1980s.
Now, 20-plus years later, Jones has his sights set on one a bit bigger -- the March 13 HBO PPV megafight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., the nearly finalized and much-anticipated showdown that many expect to shatter the numerous revenue and pay-per-view records set by Mayweather's 2007 fight with Oscar De La Hoya.
Jones wants to be part of it. He is pushing promoters Bob Arum of Top Rank and Richard Schaefer of Golden Boy hard to bring the fight to Cowboys Stadium, the new $1.2 billion state-of-the-art facility.
“
To use my football experience, 99 percent of your time is spent striving for something and being disappointed. But it's events like this that you strive for. You take all the hard knocks and that makes it all worth it, and that's how I feel about the fight.
” -- Jerry Jones
Jones has been interested in boxing since he was a boy, and boxed for fun at the North Little Rock Boys Club.
"I'm a longtime boxing fan," Jones told ESPN.com during a half-hour interview Thursday, the first time he has publicly discussed his desire to host boxing's biggest event.
Jones made it clear he wants the bout.
"It would be a spectacle," he said. "It would be one that would really put the eyes of this country on boxing."
Jones is not half-hearted in his attempt to land the fight. He's putting his money where his mouth is, offering a $25 million site fee, the largest guarantee ever put up for a fight.
"I don't know that there's been a decision made yet as we speak, but I know that we have put our hat in the ring with a significant financial commitment. I don't want to give the numbers, but it's as credible as you could imagine. You won't be wrong," he said when asked about the widely reported $25 million figure. "But I don't want to get into something that would impact fragile negotiations."
Top Rank and Golden Boy have received inquiries and offers from venues around the world, including the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which has hosted numerous Pacquiao and Mayweather bouts and appears to be the frontrunner. But there has also been interest from venues in New Orleans, Atlanta, Miami, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dubai and a $20 million offer from Staples Center in Los Angeles.
One by one, they have fallen by the wayside for one reason or another, except for Las Vegas and Dallas, whose bid Jones has kept alive with that big offer and persistence.
"To use my football experience, 99 percent of your time is spent striving for something and being disappointed," Jones said. "[But] it's events like this that you strive for. You take all the hard knocks and that makes it all worth it, and that's how I feel about the fight."
Mayweather
Mayweather
Pacquiao
Pacquiao
When Jones built the stadium, using about $450 million in public funds, with the rest coming from his personal fortune, he wanted to host major fights as part of its offerings. Besides Cowboys games, the stadium is scheduled to host the annual AT&T Cotton Bowl Classic, the 2010 NBA All-Star Game, the 2011 Super Bowl and the 2014 NCAA men's basketball Final Four, as well as high school and college football games, concerts and other events. Pacquiao-Mayweather is one of the events he covets.
"From the get-go we envisioned in our planning about potentially having significant fights," Jones said. "We have a huge Hispanic sports interest in this area, for instance, and I am well aware of their love for boxing. I do envision having significant fights of the quality and magnitude of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao."
One of the reasons is the capacity. While the MGM Grand seats roughly 16,500 for a fight, with an additional 40,000 closed-circuit seats potentially available in Las Vegas, Cowboys Stadium could hold 100,000-plus, and Jones believes he could pack the place.
Jones said his promotions department would work along with the promoters and HBO to generate an enormous crowd. "Look at the capacity of the stadium," he said. "We could create tremendous numbers for the fight. We think that the visibility of the venue, the fact that our venue is going to be home to a Super Bowl and many big events in the future would add an element of interest to fans across the country and world that are looking at the pay-per-view and feeling vicariously what it must be like to be there with 90,000 or 100,000 people watching a fight.
"I know the NFL can't be just a studio game. It has to have the pageantry. [The viewers] have to know that there are thousands of people there creating an atmosphere. I think our stadium can add an element to the promotion. I know first-hand that HBO thinks so."
Besides drawing one of the biggest crowds in boxing history, Jones believes the stadium will add to the pay-per-view numbers.
"I think our stadium would increase public interest in the fight," he said. "We know first-hand that events can be enhanced by people wanting to come and see the venue, but I think it will also create interest in viewing the fight on pay-per-view."
Because the stadium is home to the world's largest (and, at $40 million, the most expensive) HD video board, Jones said every fan, whether they're seated in one of the hundreds of luxury suites, at ringside or in the upper deck, would have a good view of the action.
“
Here's the thing -- I know that Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao would love to be part of the most-attended modern fight in American history. It would be quite a feather in their cap to be the substance behind that. We have the ability to make that happen.
” -- Jerry Jones
The video board is 72 feet high and 160 feet wide, and would be lowered to about 65 feet above the ring.
"You'll see the action in real time with the eight Sony digital cameras," Jones said. "You'll be able to see a sweat bead from any place. More important, you can see it from every angle. Wherever you're sitting, you'll see the action from the angle where you are sitting. The boxers will be [72]-feet tall. It's a dramatic way to watch any event. It will be an experience for 100,000 people."
Jones said it would also be historic for the fighters.
"Here's the thing -- I know that Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao would love to be part of the most-attended modern fight in American history," Jones said. "It would be quite a feather in their cap to be the substance behind that. We have the ability to make that happen. I have such respect for fighters and people who compete. Just think how it would feel for the greatest fight ever to draw the biggest crowd in modern America? That's something you tell your grandchildren about."
Jones said he talked with the promoters during the weekend and believes he has a good chance to land the fight.
"You have multiple constituencies so you don't know if you have a deal until it's agreed to, but yes, I think we are [still in the hunt]," he said. "There's tremendous value here. I think the fight has the ability to transcend boxing and the size of the crowd and facility is part of that. You build brands with brands. When you have an association with successful brands like the Cowboys and the NFL, it lifts all boats. I don't want to be presumptuous, but boxing has a chance to elevate itself. Shouldn't you look at what you can gain in your association with a brand like NFL football? When they throw the first punch in Cowboys Stadium it will inextricably be associated with the NFL and the Dallas Cowboys."
Schaefer, Arum and HBO Sports president Ross Greenburg were supposed to visit the stadium and meet with Jones last Tuesday. However, Schaefer canceled the night before, forcing the visit to be called off.
The reason, according to sources, was not because the Mayweather side didn't want the fight in Dallas, but rather because they felt the deal for the bout was not close enough to being done to warrant a visit to a potential site if the fight might collapse.
Jones said whatever the reason was, he didn't take it personally.
"Not a bit," Jones said. "I was disappointed and I had changed plans to see them, but I'll use a football analogy: You just keep plugging. We want to do this fight. I didn't pout. But I sure want them to see the venue. It's important they see the venue. I saw Pacquiao's last fight [against Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14] and that was something, and Mayweather I have seen fight. In the last 10 years there hasn't been a more competitive, interesting fight.
"It would be magical when that first bell rings. It would be something to have that fight here."
Dan Rafael covers boxing for ESPN.com.
Source: sports.espn.go.com
Two Respected Insiders Say March 13 Date Is OFF
Published by Scoop Malinowski on December 17th, 2009
First, it was George Peterson, the trainer and manager of Paul Williams, who responded two weeks ago to a question asking his opinion on the Pacquiao-Mayweather match, by answering, “It isn’t gonna happen. It isn’t gonna happen. Some fights weren’t mean to be made.”
Next, none other than Bernard Hopkins, revealed in a Boxingtalk.com interview with Greg Leon, with an offhand remark that his inside source told him the March 13 date would be likely be canceled.
The interesting connection here is that both George Peterson and Bernard Hopkins have direct ties to Al Haymon, the advisor of Floyd Mayweather. Peterson and Haymon are partners in guiding the career of Williams, while Hopkins has stated on the record he is “friends” with Haymon. Hopkins’ most recent fight was against Ornelas, who is the brother of Haymon client Librado Andrade.
Could Haymon have divulged insider information to Peterson and Hopkins, which both inadvertantly leaked to the media?
Only time will tell.
Stay tuned…
Source: boxinginsider.com
First, it was George Peterson, the trainer and manager of Paul Williams, who responded two weeks ago to a question asking his opinion on the Pacquiao-Mayweather match, by answering, “It isn’t gonna happen. It isn’t gonna happen. Some fights weren’t mean to be made.”
Next, none other than Bernard Hopkins, revealed in a Boxingtalk.com interview with Greg Leon, with an offhand remark that his inside source told him the March 13 date would be likely be canceled.
The interesting connection here is that both George Peterson and Bernard Hopkins have direct ties to Al Haymon, the advisor of Floyd Mayweather. Peterson and Haymon are partners in guiding the career of Williams, while Hopkins has stated on the record he is “friends” with Haymon. Hopkins’ most recent fight was against Ornelas, who is the brother of Haymon client Librado Andrade.
Could Haymon have divulged insider information to Peterson and Hopkins, which both inadvertantly leaked to the media?
Only time will tell.
Stay tuned…
Source: boxinginsider.com
PACQUIAO, MAYWEATHER BOTH PREFER LAS VEGAS
By Ronnie Nathanielsz
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 18 Dec 2009
If the fighters have their way – and they normally do – the planned March 13 super-fight between the reigning and the past pound-for-pound kings Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr will be held at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao’s adviser Michael Koncz has told us that the seven division world champion who is coming off a smashing twelfth round TKO victory over WBO champion Miguel Cotto last was dead set against fighting at the Staples Center which was originally pushed by Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer who is negotiating on behalf of the Mayweather camp.
While Jerry Jones who owns the new state-of-the-art $1.2 billion Dallas Cowboys stadium has offered a $25 million guarantee which Top Rank promoter Bob Arum believes he has a duty to consider since it would mean more money for his fighter, both fighters have indicated a preference for the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
The Mayweather camp not only prefers the venue they are, like Team Pacquiao, comfortable with the Nevada State Athletic Commission who will appoint the officials for the fight.
In the meantime Pacquiao’s lawyer Franklin “Jeng” Gacal told us that while “it is possible to file a case” against Floyd Mayweather Sr for his unsubstantiated allegations that Pacquiao has been on performance-enhancing drugs, Pacquiao has told him he “doesn’t want to glorify” the statements of Mayweather’s father even as he supported condition expert Alex Ariza’s stand that perhaps Floyd Mayweather Sr should have his head examined first.
While side issues keep cropping up such as questions on the weight, the demand by Mayweather’s camp for Olympic-style drug testing and the claim by Arum that the Mayweather people bring up an issue a day, Mayweather’s adviser Leonard Ellerbe has told respected boxing writer David Mayo of the Grand Rapids that “both sides are working very hard to get it (the fght) done” even as he branded as “absolutely absurd” an internet report about a disagreement over the weight likely to derail the fight.
Arum who is in Youngstown, Ohio for the title defense of Kelly Pavlik told us earlier he was hopeful that something definite may emerge over the weekend.
Source: PhilBoxing.com
One Week Remains in Athlete of the Year Balloting
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 18 Dec 2009
There is only one week remaining to make your voices heard in the United States Sports Academy’s Athlete of the Year balloting. Deadline to submit your vote for the world’s top athletes for 2009 is 24 December.
This year’s ballot is truly adopts the international influence the Academy has, as the 24 finalists — 12 men and 12 women — represent a dozen countries around the world. Through the websites of USA Today and NBC Sports, the Athlete of the Year ballot has attracted hundreds of thousands of votes. And with momentum steaming into the final days, that number is sure to increase.
The Athlete of the Year ballot is the culmination of the Academy’s yearlong Athlete of the Month program, which recognizes the accomplishments of men and women in sports around the globe. The Academy Athlete of the Month is selected by an international voting committee comprised of members of the media, sports organizations and governing bodies.
Votes can be submitted on the Academy’s website at http://ussa.edu/ballots/athlete-of-the-year. The athlete with the most votes regardless of gender will be the Overall Athlete of the Year. The winners will be announced on Christmas Day.
Last year’s winners were 2008 Olympic stars Michael Phelps and Nastia Liukin.
Voters are asked to select their top three candidates for the award in descending order. First choice is worth five points, second place is three points and third place is one point.
The men’s ballot consists of, in alphabetical order: Craig Alexander, triathlon, Australia; Usain Bolt, track and field, Jamaica; Drew Brees, football, United States; Kobe Bryant, basketball, United States; Angel Cabrera, golf, Argentina; Roger Federer, tennis, Switzerland; Santonio Holmes, football, United States; LeBron James, basketball, United States; Jimmie Johnson, auto racing, United States; Manny Pacquiao, boxing, Philippines; Albert Pujols, baseball, Dominican Republic; and Tiger Woods, golf, United States.
The women’s ballot consists of: Yelena Isinbaeva, track and field, Russia; Carmelita Jeter, track
and field, United States; Courtney Kupets, gymnastics, United States; Linet Masai, track and field, Kenya; Lorena Ochoa, golf, Mexico; Courtney Paris, basketball, United States; Sanya Richards, track and field, United States; Jiyai Shin, golf, South Korea; Diana Taurasi, basketball, United States; Lindsey Vonn, skiing, United States; Chrissie Wellington, triathlon, United Kingdom; and Serena Williams, tennis, United States.
The United States Sports Academy is an independent, nonprofit, accredited, special mission sports university created to serve the nation and the world with programs in instruction, research and service. The role of the Academy is to prepare men and women for careers in the profession of sports. For more information about the Academy, call 251-626-3303 or visit www.ussa.edu.
Source: PhilBoxing.com
Magnificent Manny Pacquaio turns 31
By Irish Eden Belleza, Web Coordinator, Business
Published: 20:42 December 17, 2009
Dubai: Manny Pacquaio made it to TIME Magazine’s “Person of the Year 2009” list, which named US Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke as this year’s Person of the Year.
Pacman’s entry into the list is one of the greatest birthday gifts for the Filipino boxing superstar, who turned 31 on Thursday (December 17).
Emmanuel “Manny” Dapidran Pacquiao celebrated his birthday in his hometown in General Santos City with his family, members of Team Pacquiao and his friends.
“Manny is not only a great boxer but he is also a wonderful friend. Right now we are celebrating the birthday of this great fighter. We are having a party here – Manny is singing right now,” says former world boxing champion Dodie “Boy” Penalosa, now a member of Team Pacquiao, who attended the celebration.
After his birthday bash, Manny will have a more private celebration of Christmas and New Year with his family in General Santos.
Dancing Mayweather?
A bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr. in March awaits the Filipino boxing sensation after the holidays. Pacquiao-Mayweather, dubbed "Fight of the Century," will the most awaited event in 2010. On January 11, a press conference is expected to be held in New York City to officially announce the much-awaited fight.
Team Pacquiao confirmed to Gulf News that Manny will start his training in January and it may be held in Los Angeles and not in Baguio City, the base of the first half of his training for the fight against Miguel Cotto last November.
“I am ready to face and fight Mayweather," Pacquiao told Gulf News, adding that he can adjust to Mayweather's fighting style. "Mayweather will just run around the ring; that is the strategy of his coach. Mayweather is not an attacker.”
There is no final venue for the fight. If it will be at the MGM Grand, the tickets are expected to fetch at least $2,500 each, or $500 more than the dela Hoya vs. Mayweather fight.
Born of typical poverty-stricken Filipino family, Pacquiao defied all odds to acclaimed the Philippines' "People’s Champ" and "Pambansang Kamao" (National Fist).
The reigning No.1 pound-for-pound fighter of the world has demolished several boxing greats of his time, including the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Eric Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and recently Cotto. His victory over Cotto also made him the first-ever boxer to win seven world titles in seven different weight divisions.
Source: gulfnews.com
Las Vegas favored for Pacquiao-Mayweather bout
By NICK GIONGCO
December 17, 2009, 6:00pm
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — As Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions (GBP) try to find the best venue to host the March 13, 2010 bout between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, a key Pacquiao adviser believes Las Vegas will end up edging Dallas as host of the super fight.
“With the casino and all the betting that’s going to take place, Las Vegas will eventually get the right to host the fight,” said lawyer Franklin Gacal on Thursday as he and a bevy of celebrities arrived here from Manila in time for Pacquiao’s 31st birthday bash.
The MGM Grand, which seats just over 16,000 is the frontrunner, while the 80,000-seat Cowboys Stadium, is aching to play host to what many consider as the richest fight ever with Texas billionaire Jerry Jones agreeing to cough up $25 million as site fee.
“Imagine the revenue that Vegas is going to miss out if Dallas ends up staging the fight,” said Gacal. “This fight is a sure hit so Vegas will not allow this to slip away.”
Luminaries from the world of politics, showbiz and sports are attending Pacquiao’s special day and some of them got here on board a private plane owned by former Ilocos Sur Gov. Chavit Singson, who has been a familiar fixture in Pacquiao’s last few fights.
The plane, which seats 30, made a brief stopover on Mactan Island, picking up Cebu Mayor Tommy Osmeña, before proceeding to Gen. Santos International Airport.
Pacquio is planning to go on a vacation with his wife Jinkee and four kids during the holidays then fly to New York for a press conference in the first week of January. From the Big Apple Pacquiao will return to Manila en route to Baguio for the first half of training camp under Freddie Roach.
Source: mb.com.ph
December 17, 2009, 6:00pm
GENERAL SANTOS CITY — As Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions (GBP) try to find the best venue to host the March 13, 2010 bout between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, a key Pacquiao adviser believes Las Vegas will end up edging Dallas as host of the super fight.
“With the casino and all the betting that’s going to take place, Las Vegas will eventually get the right to host the fight,” said lawyer Franklin Gacal on Thursday as he and a bevy of celebrities arrived here from Manila in time for Pacquiao’s 31st birthday bash.
The MGM Grand, which seats just over 16,000 is the frontrunner, while the 80,000-seat Cowboys Stadium, is aching to play host to what many consider as the richest fight ever with Texas billionaire Jerry Jones agreeing to cough up $25 million as site fee.
“Imagine the revenue that Vegas is going to miss out if Dallas ends up staging the fight,” said Gacal. “This fight is a sure hit so Vegas will not allow this to slip away.”
Luminaries from the world of politics, showbiz and sports are attending Pacquiao’s special day and some of them got here on board a private plane owned by former Ilocos Sur Gov. Chavit Singson, who has been a familiar fixture in Pacquiao’s last few fights.
The plane, which seats 30, made a brief stopover on Mactan Island, picking up Cebu Mayor Tommy Osmeña, before proceeding to Gen. Santos International Airport.
Pacquio is planning to go on a vacation with his wife Jinkee and four kids during the holidays then fly to New York for a press conference in the first week of January. From the Big Apple Pacquiao will return to Manila en route to Baguio for the first half of training camp under Freddie Roach.
Source: mb.com.ph
Roach says Mayweather won't do Texas Two Step with Pacquiao
NY Boxing Examiner | Michael Marley
Coach Freddie Roach missed Manny Pacquiao’s Thursday 31st birthday bash in General Santos.
The highly esteemed trainer of the Pinoy Idol thus broke a Pacman birthday attendance streak of three years, including Dec. 17, 2008, when he was honored to share his table with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
But Megamanny can’t get mad about Roach’s absence. The Boston Irishman was at BB King’s cozy nightclub in Times Square doing what he does best, riding another talented fighter on to victory, in this case the flashy Cuban supper bantamweight Gilberto Rigondeaux.
The 2000 and 2004 Cuban Olympic gold medalist nearly KO’d rugged Ghanaian Lante Addy (now 6-5-1) fighting out of Baltimore in the first round but had to settle for a wide, eight round decision in Lou DiBella’s year-end “Broadway Boxing” show. Rigondeaux, who is a work in progress, improved to 4-0 and did notch not a knockout for the first time as a professional.
Rignondeaux paid homage to Roach and Pacman after his bout.
“Freddie is the greatest trainer in the world and Manny is the greatest fighter in the world…so whatever my Professor says.”
As Muhammad Ali liked to say, Rigondeaux is not “as dumb as he looks.”
I walked the frosty streets of Times Square as Roach marched back to his hotel and saw a sign of his public recognition.
As we waited for a traffic light to change on one block, a Puerto Rican family of five or six people buzzed when they saw Manny’s mentor.
“Great fight,” one of the men in the group said, “great fight.”
The reference naturally was to Pacman’s Nov. 14 win over Boricua Bomber Miguel Cotto.
I quizzed Roach about several topics as follows:
WHERE THE MARCH 13 FLOYD MAYWEATHER-PACMAN LOLLAPALOOZA WILL TAKE PLACE: “No way Mayweather is going to Texas. It is a Vegas fight the way I see it. Texas has had some bad decisions but Nevada has also. I just don’t Mayweather will go to Texas. We really don’t care where it is. I like Texas because that’s where we beat Barrera.”
WHY IT’S THE TOUGHEST FIGHT MANNY AND FLOYD HAVE EVER HAD: “We will train a month in Bagiuo, then to my gym in Los Angeles, then to Las Vegas. I want to get Manny into camp as early as possible. They’ve got a Jan. 8 New York press conference so maybe we’re in camp right after that. Mayweather doesn’t come aggressive like the last three guys we fought so we’ve got to do different things. We’ve got to set some traps for Mayweather and we will.”
ON HIS DISLIKE FOR ROGER MAYWEATHER: “The guy is just a gashole. He badmouths my trainer, Mr. Futch, a guy who is dead and can’t defend himself. I don’t go for that. He’s mean, different than Floyd Mayweather Sr. who is just harmless.”
ON ANY CHANCE OF MAYWEATHER DODGING MANNY: “I can’t see that because where else can he get this kind of money? Nowhere but from fighting Manny. They’re splitting the PPV money 50-50 so that tells you something.”
ON MAYWEATHER GETTING INTO MANNY’S HEAD: “No way. Manny wouldn’t take him serious. We had one opponent who was talking big and I wanted to snap at him but Manny told me, ‘Freddie, be a gentleman, I will take care of it.’”
ON DIBELLA TALKING UP A PAULIE MALIGNAGGI-AMIR KHAN BOUT IN NEW YORK: “I think we’d take that fight. I was on an airplane so I didn’t see Paulie beat Juan Diaz the other night on HBO.”
ON HOW MANNY WINS OVER FLOYD: “Manny can win a decision over Mayweather. They don’t think so but I know so.”
I wished Roach a festive holiday and a Mayweather New Year and we parted ways.
Source: Examiner.com
Mayweather, Jr. vs. Pacquiao: An early look at strategy
Dallas Boxing Examiner | Matt Stolow
Some say that for Floyd Mayweather, Jr. to win, he has to turn "The Fight" with Manny Pacquiao into a back-peddling, counter -punching 12 - round snoorefest.
I have to disagree with this scenario.
Thankfully, Freddy Roach knows better to, but isn't talking.
If you don't think Floyd Mayweather, Jr. is a precision puncher with one punch knockout power, you are sadly mistaken. You have to have followed his entire career and not the caricature of him to know the truth and not put bad information out there to the public.
For Floyd to turn the fight into this style of fight, it will mean he has taken the most and very best that Manny Pacquiao could dish out, and only then could Mayweather impose his will and style to dictate the terms of the fight.
Floyd will be the bigger fighter against Pacquiao. He will try to get his shots off first at least half the time and thus throwing Pacquiao off balance. Mayweather is a lot like a young Roy Jones, Jr. He will go hog wild after you if he land on him. Mayweather really isn't one to initiate clinches.
Pacquiao will be at his best, and we all know he will do his best and then some to win this fight, so Mayweather has a lot to go up against and a mere style isn't going to decide matters as Pacquiao makes calculated, almost computerized adjustments all the time.
That is why to the boxing purest, this fight is so interesting.
This fight isn't going to be settled now, before Christmas. I'm just saying today, 86 days out from March 13, 2010, that you have time to strategize the fight in your own mind, be it P4P No. 1 vs. No. 2 or 1A vs. 1B.
It could be a lot of fun.
Source: Examiner.com
Floyd Mayweather adviser: Reports on conflict over weight for Pacquiao fight 'absurd'
By David Mayo | The Grand Rapids Press
December 16, 2009, 5:20PM
Floyd Mayweather’s adviser called an Internet report that the proposed Manny Pacquiao fight might not happen because of a disagreement over weight “absolutely absurd” Wednesday.
The proposed March 13 fight, which will happen in either Las Vegas or Dallas, would be contested at the 147-pound welterweight limit.
An Internet report, citing unnamed sources who claimed that Mayweather wanted “wiggle room” in the weight limit was dismissed by his adviser, Leonard Ellerbe.
“There have been a lot of erroneous reports out there and I don’t know where they come from,” Ellerbe said. “All I can say is both sides are working very hard to get it done."
Source: mlive.com
TEAM MAYWEATHER RAISING A PROBLEM A DAY? HERE’S ONE FOR THEM
By Ed de la Vega, DDS
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 17 Dec 2009
Reports indicate that Floyd Mayweather Jr and his camp are raising a problem a day that complicates the on-going negotiations to finalize the biggest fight in our generation.
Junior’s camp raised issues about the venue and clouded it. Richard Schaefer stood up Jerry Jones, the billionaire owner of the Dallas Cowboys Football Team who wanted to host the fight at his new stadium at the State of Texas. Then Junior stated that he would not fight in Dallas or Los Angeles no matter how much money there would be.
Next they reportedly are now demanding some sort of concession on the fight weight when the fight is for Pacquiao’s WBO Welterweight crown which carries a maximum of 147 lbs limit.
From our perspective, it seems that Junior is having weight problems and may not make the 147 lbs limit. He therefore wants a concession and be allowed to “pull another Marquez” and come out during fight night with a huge weight advantage. And, he threatens to pull out if not given the concession.
No problem with the weight issue.
But the penalty for every pound or a fraction thereof over 147 lbs. should be $5 million. That should make the “Money-man” think more than twice before he comes in overweight!
Then they suggested that an in-between fight for each of them, Pacquiao fighting Yuri Foreman and Junior matching up with Mathew Hatton.
This latest demand from Mayweather suggests that Junior is not ready for a big fight that has a potential to go 12 hard rounds, not with a warrior like Pacquiao.
After coming off from a long retirement and a lackluster fight with Juan Ma Marquez, Junior knows in his present condition, he will get his ass kicked by the Filipino spitfire.
Thus he wants a “tune-up fight” to help sharpen his now eroded fighting skills.
But the most ridiculous problem Junior’s camp raised is for an “Olympic-style drug testing”.
This demand from Junior which reports indicate was carried out on the advice of his advisers Leonard Ellerbe and Al Hayman is without doubt an off shoot of the unfounded allegations made by Mayweather Sr indicating that Pacquiao is on something.
Such allegations were shot down by Keith Kizer of the NSAC who indicated that Pacquiao has been tested several times by the Commission and always came out clean.
But members of Team Mayweather are adamant to have an Olympic-style drug testing as if they can prove anything. For all you know, the results could be different and Floyd maybe the one coming out positive, So, let’s get it on!
Since this drug issue has been carried too far and the Mayweathers are constantly keeping it fore-front, we might as well push it a little further and see where the loud-mouth braggarts really stand on the issue.
I suggest that Team Pacquiao call the bluff of Team Mayweather and push the testing to the max by including the trainers.
And, suspend all those who test positive for illegal drugs and ban them from participating in any activities regarding the fight. A full censure and a total ban so to speak.
Let’s test Pacquiao and Junior as well as two members of their team.
Let’s test Freddie Roach and Alex Ariza and Mayweather Senior and Roger Mayweather for illegal drugs.
This is to keep all of those directly involved with the fight itself really clean.
I am certain Pacquiao, Roach and Ariza will have no problem with the testing. Pacquiao certainly is clean. Immaculately clean, in fact. The same goes for Roach and Ariza.
But for Mayweather Senior and Uncle Roger?
I am not making any accusations but I can’t certainly say for sure that they are “clean”.
Only an Olympic-style testing will tell for sure.
Source: PhilBoxing.com
Should Floyd Be Exiled If He Ducks Pacquiao?
Published by Scoop Malinowski on December 16th, 2009
What if Bob Arum revealed a horrible but 100% accurate truth when he said Floyd Mayweather “is a psychological coward” who will never fight anyone who can beat him?
As it looks now, with all the blocks he keeps putting up, it’s entirely possible Floyd Mayweather might pull out of March 13 and duck Manny Pacquiao.
Imagine, if you will, if the NFL Super Bowl got canceled because one of the teams got scared and pulled out – that’s the equivalent scenario if Floyd decides to pull out and duck Pacquiao on March 13. Imagine the outrage by the NFL, sponsors, TV networks and the fans, consumers and lifeblood of the sport, if the Super Bowl was canceled?
How should boxing respond if Floyd attempts to pull off the greatest duck in the history of boxing – and cancels boxing’s Super Bowl?
Should HBO and Golden Boy fire Floyd Mayweather and blackball him from the sport?
Would Showtime be interested in paying millions to a cowardly fraud who perpetually ducks the best, in favor of handpicking tune-ups?
If championship boxing prizefighting is supposed to be the best competing against the best, why would any network opt to try to sell this monstrous fraud to the public, against another handpicked set up?
Wouldn’t it be in the best interests in the sport to devote their time, energy and resources on developing and hyping true champions like Paul Williams, Sergio Martinez, Arthur Abraham, Carl Froch, Andre Berto, Shane Mosley, the Klitschkos, Juanma Lopez, Yuriorkis Gamboa, etc., while kicking Floyd to the curb and let him go it alone as a free agent?
Just who the hell in their right mind would even try to sell Floyd Mayweather vs. Matthew Hatton to the public? Would Richard Schaefer? Would HBO or Showtime?
Just who in the hell would waste their time to pay to watch such a farce of a meaningless “fight” which really should end up free on YouTube as a sparring video?
If Floyd Mayweather ducks Manny Pacquiao isn’t it about time the sport unites and, once and for all, rid this annoying “farce of boxing” from the sole of it’s shoe, and move forward and focus on promoting the true warriors who deserve the TV airtime, paydays, and promotional energy that has been wasted on Floyd Mayweather these last few years?
Let’s hope the recent reports are erroneous and Floyd Mayweather is not plotting a way to get out of March 13 vs. Manny Pacquiao.
Let’s hope Floyd Mayweather is as eager and confident to play his part in Boxing’s Super Bowl next year, and cherishes the chance to showcase his skills on the biggest stage in possibly the entire history of the sport.
And may the best man win.
Source: boxinginsider.com
What if Bob Arum revealed a horrible but 100% accurate truth when he said Floyd Mayweather “is a psychological coward” who will never fight anyone who can beat him?
As it looks now, with all the blocks he keeps putting up, it’s entirely possible Floyd Mayweather might pull out of March 13 and duck Manny Pacquiao.
Imagine, if you will, if the NFL Super Bowl got canceled because one of the teams got scared and pulled out – that’s the equivalent scenario if Floyd decides to pull out and duck Pacquiao on March 13. Imagine the outrage by the NFL, sponsors, TV networks and the fans, consumers and lifeblood of the sport, if the Super Bowl was canceled?
How should boxing respond if Floyd attempts to pull off the greatest duck in the history of boxing – and cancels boxing’s Super Bowl?
Should HBO and Golden Boy fire Floyd Mayweather and blackball him from the sport?
Would Showtime be interested in paying millions to a cowardly fraud who perpetually ducks the best, in favor of handpicking tune-ups?
If championship boxing prizefighting is supposed to be the best competing against the best, why would any network opt to try to sell this monstrous fraud to the public, against another handpicked set up?
Wouldn’t it be in the best interests in the sport to devote their time, energy and resources on developing and hyping true champions like Paul Williams, Sergio Martinez, Arthur Abraham, Carl Froch, Andre Berto, Shane Mosley, the Klitschkos, Juanma Lopez, Yuriorkis Gamboa, etc., while kicking Floyd to the curb and let him go it alone as a free agent?
Just who the hell in their right mind would even try to sell Floyd Mayweather vs. Matthew Hatton to the public? Would Richard Schaefer? Would HBO or Showtime?
Just who in the hell would waste their time to pay to watch such a farce of a meaningless “fight” which really should end up free on YouTube as a sparring video?
If Floyd Mayweather ducks Manny Pacquiao isn’t it about time the sport unites and, once and for all, rid this annoying “farce of boxing” from the sole of it’s shoe, and move forward and focus on promoting the true warriors who deserve the TV airtime, paydays, and promotional energy that has been wasted on Floyd Mayweather these last few years?
Let’s hope the recent reports are erroneous and Floyd Mayweather is not plotting a way to get out of March 13 vs. Manny Pacquiao.
Let’s hope Floyd Mayweather is as eager and confident to play his part in Boxing’s Super Bowl next year, and cherishes the chance to showcase his skills on the biggest stage in possibly the entire history of the sport.
And may the best man win.
Source: boxinginsider.com
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MANNY!
By Maloney L. Samaco
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 17 Dec 2009
Emmanuel “Manny” Dapidran Pacquiao was born December 17, 1978 in Kibawe, Bukidnon and resides in General Santos City. Christian belief holds that Emmanuel means the “Messiah” and he was born just eight days before Christmas, thus he was named as such.
True to his name Emmanuel, Manny is the “Messiah” to the deteriorating Philippine sports. He is the “Messiah” to the boxing world whose popularity is dwindling due to the rising costs of pay-per-view shows and the evident lack of talents.
Today Manny will celebrate his 31st birthday in General Santos City in the same venue where he commemorated his 30th birthday last year. It serves also a victory party for his convincing win over Miguel Cotto.
Last year during his 30th birthday bash, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo led the guests which include Freddie Roach and Bob Arum. It capped his upset win over the legendary Golden Boy Oscar de la Hoya.
More than 1,000 guests graced the occasion exactly a year ago and it was reported that P3.5 million was spent for the celebration. Other visitors include David Diaz and Edwin Valero.
If last year the focus of the celebration was his life as a boxer, this year’s theme will highlight his life as a son, father and husband. The event will feature a mini-concert which showcases Manny’s acting and singing talents. A raffle draw will be held with a Toyota Vios as a grand prize.
In his 31 years in this world, Pacquiao is already considered as one of the greatest boxer that ever lived. Among Asians, he is already the best in boxing history.
Pacquiao is the first boxer to win seven world titles in seven different weight divisions. As an added feather to his cap, he is the only boxer to win the lineal championship in four different weight classes.
He is currently the WBO world welterweight champion, the IBO and Ring Magazine light welterweight champion, and holds the most prestigious title as the Ring Magazine No. 1 pound-for-pound boxer in the world.
The other crowns Pacquiao held were the WBC world lightweight championship, the WBC world super featherweight championship, the IBF world super bantamweight championship, and the WBC world flyweight championship.
Likewise, he once held the popular Ring Magazine featherweight and super featherweight titles being regarded as the People’s Champion.
Aside from boxing, Pacquiao had stints in politics, acting, filmmaking, and music recording. He also played basketball and billiards and is a military reservist.
Due to extreme poverty, Pacquiao received only an elementary education. He passed a high school equivalency exam and enrolled for a college degree at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University.
Pacquiao began his professional boxing career when he was just 16 years old and weighed 106 pounds, in the light flyweight category. His professional debut was a four round bout against Edmund "Enting" Ignacio, on January 22, 1995, which PacMan handily won by decision.
In all his 55 fights, he won 50 of them, 30 by KO, lost 3 with 2 KO losses, and drawn 2. He has a high 69.09% KO rate in all his wins and has boxed a total of 305 rounds. His nicknames include The PacMan, The Destroyer and The Greatest.
Source: PhilBoxing.com
Retirement? Pacquiao celebrates birthday as if getting older is not a curse
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Chicago Boxing Fitness Examiner | Tim Kane
Prizefighters usually don't like to draw attention to their birthdays. Some boxers lie about their age, as if that number on their scorecards -- if made smaller -- would be enough to keep them viable as fighters and lengthen their careers.
Pound-for-pound boxing champ Manny Pacquiao's 31st birthday [Dec. 17] will be celebrated in General Santos City in the Philippines -- at the same venue as last year.
Pacquiao's birthday is treated as a national holiday. Dignitaries will drop off presents. Entertainers will regale Pacquiao with jokes, songs and dance.
At last year's event [see the photo above] Pacquiao was not sure if his next fight would be with Ricky Hatton or Floyd Mayweather. Promoter Bob Arum was at the event and so was trainer Freddie Roach.
Roach, in an episode of HBO's "24/7" that aired in November when Pacquiao was preparing to fight Miguel Cotto, said he would like to see Pacquiao beat Mayweather and retire. That fight has been set for March 13.
Roach also said that he himself stayed in the fight game too long as a prizefighter, after he had passed his prime. And that has had an adverse effect on his health. He has Parkinson's disease, the same affliction that Muhammad Ali suffers from. Roach said he would be sure to tell any of the fighters that he trains to retire if he detected any evidence that their skills were eroding.
Source: Examiner.com
'Pacman can deal Floyd Jr's 1st loss'
By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 17, 2009 12:00 AM
MANILA, Philippines - Lennox Lewis, the former three-time heavyweight champion of the world, can only think of two men who can inflict Floyd Mayweather Jr. his first loss in the ring.
One of them happens to be Manny Pacquiao. The other, Shane Mosley.
Lewis, in a recent chat with boxing chronicler Michael Marley, gave his brief thoughts on the projected showdown betweeen Mayweather and Pacquiao, the former and reigning pound-for-pound champions.
Now 44, Lennox, who juggled the world heavyweight crowns for almost 10 years starting in 2003, said Pacquiao has a chance of beating Mayweather in what is being billed as the greatest fight of the century.
“I’d say that Manny is one of two guys who have a chance to beat Floyd,” the pride of England, who fought at 6-feet-5 and 250 pounds, told Marley during the Juan Diaz-Paulie Malignaggi fight in Chicago.
He said it’s only Pacquiao, now the hottest fighter out there, and Mosley, also a champion at 147 lb, who stand a chance against Mayweather, undefeated in 40 fights and back to reclaim his old crown.
Lewis, however, did not really say if Pacquiao would come out victorious if and when his fight with Mayweather, set March 13 at a still unspecified venue, takes place.
Lewis, who defeated Ridick Bowe for the heavyweight gold in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, said Mayweather is just too fast, too sharp and too elusive to lose that “zero” in his fight record.
“It is amazing how fast Mayweather is, it really is. It should be a great thing for boxing when he and Pacquiao fight,” said Lewis, one of the very few men who ever knocked Mike Tyson out in the ring.
It sounds like he’s putting his money on Floyd.
Source: philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines - Lennox Lewis, the former three-time heavyweight champion of the world, can only think of two men who can inflict Floyd Mayweather Jr. his first loss in the ring.
One of them happens to be Manny Pacquiao. The other, Shane Mosley.
Lewis, in a recent chat with boxing chronicler Michael Marley, gave his brief thoughts on the projected showdown betweeen Mayweather and Pacquiao, the former and reigning pound-for-pound champions.
Now 44, Lennox, who juggled the world heavyweight crowns for almost 10 years starting in 2003, said Pacquiao has a chance of beating Mayweather in what is being billed as the greatest fight of the century.
“I’d say that Manny is one of two guys who have a chance to beat Floyd,” the pride of England, who fought at 6-feet-5 and 250 pounds, told Marley during the Juan Diaz-Paulie Malignaggi fight in Chicago.
He said it’s only Pacquiao, now the hottest fighter out there, and Mosley, also a champion at 147 lb, who stand a chance against Mayweather, undefeated in 40 fights and back to reclaim his old crown.
Lewis, however, did not really say if Pacquiao would come out victorious if and when his fight with Mayweather, set March 13 at a still unspecified venue, takes place.
Lewis, who defeated Ridick Bowe for the heavyweight gold in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, said Mayweather is just too fast, too sharp and too elusive to lose that “zero” in his fight record.
“It is amazing how fast Mayweather is, it really is. It should be a great thing for boxing when he and Pacquiao fight,” said Lewis, one of the very few men who ever knocked Mike Tyson out in the ring.
It sounds like he’s putting his money on Floyd.
Source: philstar.com
Roach hopes Manny beats Floyd and retire
(The Philippine Star) Updated December 17, 2009 12:00 AM
MANILA, Philippines
- If there’s one wish Freddie Roach could make as his prized fighter celebrates his birthday today it’s for Manny Pacquiao to beat Floyd Mayweather Jr. on March 13.
“Beat Floyd so he can retire,” said Roach, adding that Pacquiao has nothing more to prove in the ring, granting that he beats Mayweather in the highly awaited match.
Roach felt sorry that he couldn’t come to the Philippines to join Pacquiao in his birthday bash as he has a fight to attend to this coming weekend in the United States.
He was around when Pacquiao celebrated his birthday last year, and he had a great time in his barong Tagalog, sharing the table with Pacquiao, Bob Arum and President Arroyo.
“Tell him I couldn’t come. And tell him to have fun,” he said over the phone yesterday.
Source: philstar.com
MANILA, Philippines
- If there’s one wish Freddie Roach could make as his prized fighter celebrates his birthday today it’s for Manny Pacquiao to beat Floyd Mayweather Jr. on March 13.
“Beat Floyd so he can retire,” said Roach, adding that Pacquiao has nothing more to prove in the ring, granting that he beats Mayweather in the highly awaited match.
Roach felt sorry that he couldn’t come to the Philippines to join Pacquiao in his birthday bash as he has a fight to attend to this coming weekend in the United States.
He was around when Pacquiao celebrated his birthday last year, and he had a great time in his barong Tagalog, sharing the table with Pacquiao, Bob Arum and President Arroyo.
“Tell him I couldn’t come. And tell him to have fun,” he said over the phone yesterday.
Source: philstar.com
Manny Pacquiao blows out candles but what about Floyd Mayweather?
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NY Boxing Examiner | Michael Marley
There are 31 candles on the big birthday cake today (December 17) in GenSan and they say Miguel Cotto will be among those celebrating Manny Pacquiao’s natal day along with Jinkee, Pacmom and all the rest of the extended family.
I know Manny will blow out the candles but can he blow out Floyd Mayweather Jr.?
The world may get that answer come March 13, or so we all hope.
H is for the Hammer of a left hand that some refer to as “Manila Ice,” by any name it chilled Ricky Hatton, defrosted Oscar de la Hoya and put Miguel Cotto into cold storage.
A is for the Awesome attitude of the kid finding exactly what he begged Santa Claus to get for him under the Christmas tree, the humble manner and unimpeachable joy that Manny exudes for, well, just for being Manny.
P is for the punching power which is both quick and explosive, the likes of which Floyd Mayweather Jr., defensive wizard, has never had looming in his face.
P is for the Pinoy Power that Pacman has running through his veins, knowing that 97 million countryman are on his boxing back and supporting him to the fullest.
Y is for the Yet meaning that we probably have yet to see the absolute best of a still peaking Pacquiao. Just turning age 31 today, the most frightening thought for Money May or any other foe is that he keeps on getting better from fight to fight.
B is for the Bombs he rained on the head and body of Overmatched Oscar, on Hapless Hatton and Courageous Cotto. Don’t worry about Iran’s nuclear power, be concerned with the nukes inside Pacman’s gloves.
I is for the undenibable fact that it’s not all I, I, I, I, I—all about him—when Pacman discusses his success. Full credit is given to Coach Freddie Roach, to his entire team and, of course, to the Big Guy Upstairs.
R is for the rebound a young Pacquiao made for those early career losses, defeats which could have crushed the fighting spirit and career of a lesser fighter. In many ways, how he handled those defeats were the first ingredients for his massive talent of today.
T is for the tenacious style Manny brings not only to a fight but to the everyday rigors of training, how he always wants more rounds on the mitts with Coach Roach, how he and his little mutt named “Pacman” log mile after mile, be it in Baguio or the Hollywood Hills.
H is for Hero status which Pacquiao wears so well. I bet he pinches himself every morning and says his prayers at bedtime every night. Given the world’s economic turmoil, there’s never been a time for a humble hero and he is it.
D is for the dominance of his sizzling victories over Oscar, Hatton and Cotto but let’s not forget that Manny had to take some hot licks (see bandaged ear) from the Boricua Bomber before he could overpower him.
A is for the troops on the ground, in the Philippines, in Canada, in the UK, in United Arab Emirates, in Australia, in Hong Kong and elsewhere, including all the OFWs scattered through the Filipino Diaspora. They are, as I like to refer to them, the PWA, Pacquiao Worldwide Army and they count on marching to victory over Mayweather in the ultimate battle.
Y is for the Youth and the impact Pacquiao has on the young people of his nation. Like it or not,. he is a role model by acclamation. Maybe with Tiger Woods’ every day bimbo eruptions turning into hot, molten lava, it’s not a good time period to cite a superstar athlete as Family Guy but Pacman seems to be all that and a serving of balut.
Source: Examiner.com
PACQUIAO TOO FAST, TOO STRONG AND TOO SMART FOR MAYWEATHER, JR.
by Simeon Vergara, Maharlikan Times
HOLLYWOOD, California, December 16, 2009 - In an exclusive telephone interview with Maharlikan Times, Freddie Roach predicts an easy win by Pound -for-Pound King Manny Pacquiao via unanimous decision over former Pound-for-Pound King Floyd Mayweather, Jr. in their scheduled clash this March 13, 2010.
Freddie Roach says, "Manny Pacquiao might be too fast, too strong and too smart for Mayweather, Jr. and I know the key to break him down even in the early rounds."
Asked when should Pacquiao start his training if ever both fighters sign the contract, Roach says: "Pacquiao must start his training as soon as possible."
Roach further says he "does not mind his pupil to kick off his usual basics in the Philippines this late of December".
Pacquiao had his early start of training for Cotto fight in the Philippines, which Roach strongly opposed and went ahead to train his fighter in that tumultuous section where typhoon "Ondoy" killed hundreds in the metropolitan of Manila.
Now, Roach seems to compromise his wishes as Pacquiao keeps himself busy with business appointments and much more his preparation for the congressional election in Saranggani, of which he is vying against Roy Chongbian, the annointed one of the Chongbian Dynasty that rules such purported district for over 20 years, according to Philboxing.com's writer, Granville Ampong.
Source: maharlikantimes.com
HOLLYWOOD, California, December 16, 2009 - In an exclusive telephone interview with Maharlikan Times, Freddie Roach predicts an easy win by Pound -for-Pound King Manny Pacquiao via unanimous decision over former Pound-for-Pound King Floyd Mayweather, Jr. in their scheduled clash this March 13, 2010.
Freddie Roach says, "Manny Pacquiao might be too fast, too strong and too smart for Mayweather, Jr. and I know the key to break him down even in the early rounds."
Asked when should Pacquiao start his training if ever both fighters sign the contract, Roach says: "Pacquiao must start his training as soon as possible."
Roach further says he "does not mind his pupil to kick off his usual basics in the Philippines this late of December".
Pacquiao had his early start of training for Cotto fight in the Philippines, which Roach strongly opposed and went ahead to train his fighter in that tumultuous section where typhoon "Ondoy" killed hundreds in the metropolitan of Manila.
Now, Roach seems to compromise his wishes as Pacquiao keeps himself busy with business appointments and much more his preparation for the congressional election in Saranggani, of which he is vying against Roy Chongbian, the annointed one of the Chongbian Dynasty that rules such purported district for over 20 years, according to Philboxing.com's writer, Granville Ampong.
Source: maharlikantimes.com
Is Mayweather’s Contract Ploys and Newly Requested Olympic Style Drug Tests Valid or a Sign of Weakness, Is it Hagler / Leonard All Over Again?
By: Coach “K”
(DEC 16) The Manny Pacquiao / Floyd “Money” Mayweather upcoming mega fight only in the preliminary stages of negotiations has already hits its full compliment of the usual Mayweather games.
Mayweather has begun his soon to be an arms length list of demands for him to enter the ring with Manny Pacquiao. Is it a psychological ploy or is “Money” again setting the table. Or in this case with Pacquiao’s ever growing support could it be a tiny crack in the Mayweather armor.
Just recent history shows how Mayweather will use his gigantic draw to influence all the tactical and minor aspects of his fight contracts. In his last outing he set the required weight limits forcing Marquez to move up almost two full weight classes then didn’t make the weight himself. Some see that as a minor issue as Marquez received $600,000 to take the fight. You must forget the fact that Marquez took the money, he is a fighter, he already trained in a full training camp one that Mayweather extended due to an alleged injury. There was also people who needed to be paid and as a fighter he came to fight but the truth is he was set up.
The weight played to Mayweather’s advantage big time and it was obvious the minute the two entered the ring. Putting that aside, Mayweather should have been substantially fined as well as pay Marquez. The money paid to Marquez for all practical purposes was found money not Mayweather’s. If the fight doesn’t happen there is no pay day and Mayweather would have been the cause of the cancellation. Why wasn’t Mayweather forced to jump rope, hit the sauna just loose the weight. Add to the fact he refused to release his weight.
Now here we go déjà vu all over again. According to several sources Floyd Mayweather, Jr. has again threatened to pull out of his March 13th mega fight with Manny Pacquiao over weight issues. Rumors are that Mayweather wants a bigger leeway in the maximum weight and bigger gloves. This is the type of thing that drives boxing purists insane. Boxing has added junior weight classes, fights at catch weights on top of the 24hr weigh in policy and now even a Diamond Belt for so called catch weight championships. What’s next?
This brings to mind the Leonard / Hagler 1987 championship fight still hotly debated today. Years after the fight Leonard in an interview basically admitted the fight was won in the negotiations. Hagler was paid to agree to a bigger the ring, bigger gloves and the shorter distance down from fifteen rounds to twelve. Leonard the declared winner felt he won the close controversial decision but was honest enough to admit that if he didn’t get any one of those concessions the fight may have gone differently. Add to that now inspired by a claim from Floyd Mayweather Sr. that Pacquiao is on steroids team Mayweather now wants Olympic style drug testing.
Most feel that “Money” Mayweather has always made the better business moves like facing Baldomir instead of Margarito since the money was close. Looking back now was it money, doubt, money versus risk or a tilted scale? Risk part of the ground roots draw in boxing and something that Mayweather does not want in the ring and that is the cause of all his negotiations. Most fighters ranked or not would step in to fight Mayweather just looking for a big pay day but Mayweather still needing a recognizable name. It’s when he gets it that all the scale tipping, risk minimizing starts.
But what were talking about here is champions, the best pound for pound, not just the fight everyone wants to see. What good is the man on man, one on one draw if there is always a negotiated variable? If there was ever was a case for regulation or even just some standardization, its now. Let’s get rid of the days where a fighter wins the welterweight title weighing 160lbs, fighters wearing different gloves and all the other variables. Lets see one belt and one set of rules that’s how you measure the best.
Boxing sometimes referred to as the “sweet science” is anything but a science. In science all studies are made with a means, a basis, a standard for comparison, boxing no longer has that. We might as well be comparing apples and oranges.
I understand it’s a business but it is the fans that pay the bills, just give us a straight up fair fight. Who would go to a Yankee game if when a power team comes to town they move out the fences. Or if a speed team comes in they move the bases to 100 feet. Why do we allow the fighters to tip the scales? We don’t allow it in any other sport.
In a sport where toughness is a favorable trait and the idea of adapting and overcoming is a virtue. Why do we allow the Mayweather’s to shift the scales? All we want is a fair fight. Maybe the occasional upset, you know rooting for the underdog, Rocky wouldn’t have had a chance in a 24ft ring, 12ounce gloves and a ten round fight. Using the Mayweather mind set, what was Apollo thinking?
Manny, do boxing a favor! You hold the trump card. Take the tests it will only solidify you as one of boxing’s greatest in and out of the ring but please stand your ground on all Mayweather’s other nonsense.
If it’s about the money, Mayweather will eventually come around he needs Pacquiao more than the “Pacman” needs him. Like many I’d go see a Pacquiao / Mosley fight both are true fighters and champions always taking on the best ducking no one. A Mosley / Mayweather fight won’t ever happen unless Mayweather negotiates “the fight” out fit. He will take on a lesser opponent or make someone else move up just like his choice of Baldomir over Margarito.
As far as it being a crack in the Mayweather armor, only the fight will tell. But if there is anything that will bring a fighter down it’s doubt. Is the questioning about steroids a fear, a doubt, a ploy? I see all this usual negotiation crap an attempt to erase some doubt by tilting the scales. If Manny really wants to plant some doubt fight under the standard sanctioning body rules winner takes all if there’s a crack you’ll see it!
Published on WBAN.
Source: hotboxingnews.com
(DEC 16) The Manny Pacquiao / Floyd “Money” Mayweather upcoming mega fight only in the preliminary stages of negotiations has already hits its full compliment of the usual Mayweather games.
Mayweather has begun his soon to be an arms length list of demands for him to enter the ring with Manny Pacquiao. Is it a psychological ploy or is “Money” again setting the table. Or in this case with Pacquiao’s ever growing support could it be a tiny crack in the Mayweather armor.
Just recent history shows how Mayweather will use his gigantic draw to influence all the tactical and minor aspects of his fight contracts. In his last outing he set the required weight limits forcing Marquez to move up almost two full weight classes then didn’t make the weight himself. Some see that as a minor issue as Marquez received $600,000 to take the fight. You must forget the fact that Marquez took the money, he is a fighter, he already trained in a full training camp one that Mayweather extended due to an alleged injury. There was also people who needed to be paid and as a fighter he came to fight but the truth is he was set up.
The weight played to Mayweather’s advantage big time and it was obvious the minute the two entered the ring. Putting that aside, Mayweather should have been substantially fined as well as pay Marquez. The money paid to Marquez for all practical purposes was found money not Mayweather’s. If the fight doesn’t happen there is no pay day and Mayweather would have been the cause of the cancellation. Why wasn’t Mayweather forced to jump rope, hit the sauna just loose the weight. Add to the fact he refused to release his weight.
Now here we go déjà vu all over again. According to several sources Floyd Mayweather, Jr. has again threatened to pull out of his March 13th mega fight with Manny Pacquiao over weight issues. Rumors are that Mayweather wants a bigger leeway in the maximum weight and bigger gloves. This is the type of thing that drives boxing purists insane. Boxing has added junior weight classes, fights at catch weights on top of the 24hr weigh in policy and now even a Diamond Belt for so called catch weight championships. What’s next?
This brings to mind the Leonard / Hagler 1987 championship fight still hotly debated today. Years after the fight Leonard in an interview basically admitted the fight was won in the negotiations. Hagler was paid to agree to a bigger the ring, bigger gloves and the shorter distance down from fifteen rounds to twelve. Leonard the declared winner felt he won the close controversial decision but was honest enough to admit that if he didn’t get any one of those concessions the fight may have gone differently. Add to that now inspired by a claim from Floyd Mayweather Sr. that Pacquiao is on steroids team Mayweather now wants Olympic style drug testing.
Most feel that “Money” Mayweather has always made the better business moves like facing Baldomir instead of Margarito since the money was close. Looking back now was it money, doubt, money versus risk or a tilted scale? Risk part of the ground roots draw in boxing and something that Mayweather does not want in the ring and that is the cause of all his negotiations. Most fighters ranked or not would step in to fight Mayweather just looking for a big pay day but Mayweather still needing a recognizable name. It’s when he gets it that all the scale tipping, risk minimizing starts.
But what were talking about here is champions, the best pound for pound, not just the fight everyone wants to see. What good is the man on man, one on one draw if there is always a negotiated variable? If there was ever was a case for regulation or even just some standardization, its now. Let’s get rid of the days where a fighter wins the welterweight title weighing 160lbs, fighters wearing different gloves and all the other variables. Lets see one belt and one set of rules that’s how you measure the best.
Boxing sometimes referred to as the “sweet science” is anything but a science. In science all studies are made with a means, a basis, a standard for comparison, boxing no longer has that. We might as well be comparing apples and oranges.
I understand it’s a business but it is the fans that pay the bills, just give us a straight up fair fight. Who would go to a Yankee game if when a power team comes to town they move out the fences. Or if a speed team comes in they move the bases to 100 feet. Why do we allow the fighters to tip the scales? We don’t allow it in any other sport.
In a sport where toughness is a favorable trait and the idea of adapting and overcoming is a virtue. Why do we allow the Mayweather’s to shift the scales? All we want is a fair fight. Maybe the occasional upset, you know rooting for the underdog, Rocky wouldn’t have had a chance in a 24ft ring, 12ounce gloves and a ten round fight. Using the Mayweather mind set, what was Apollo thinking?
Manny, do boxing a favor! You hold the trump card. Take the tests it will only solidify you as one of boxing’s greatest in and out of the ring but please stand your ground on all Mayweather’s other nonsense.
If it’s about the money, Mayweather will eventually come around he needs Pacquiao more than the “Pacman” needs him. Like many I’d go see a Pacquiao / Mosley fight both are true fighters and champions always taking on the best ducking no one. A Mosley / Mayweather fight won’t ever happen unless Mayweather negotiates “the fight” out fit. He will take on a lesser opponent or make someone else move up just like his choice of Baldomir over Margarito.
As far as it being a crack in the Mayweather armor, only the fight will tell. But if there is anything that will bring a fighter down it’s doubt. Is the questioning about steroids a fear, a doubt, a ploy? I see all this usual negotiation crap an attempt to erase some doubt by tilting the scales. If Manny really wants to plant some doubt fight under the standard sanctioning body rules winner takes all if there’s a crack you’ll see it!
Published on WBAN.
Source: hotboxingnews.com
Artest talks Pacquiao-Mayweather
By Elie Seckbach, Boxing FanHouse
Longtime boxing fan Ron Artest blessed FanHouse with his thoughts on the much anticipated Pacquiao-Mayweather fight.
As a kid growing up watching my dad anticipate big fights such as Hagler and Leonard, Tyson and Spinks, Tyson and Holyfield, Tyson and Berbick etc., I never appreciated the energy and excitement behind boxing. I was young and just a kid, playing tag and getting in minor trouble. Paying more mind to the music of Michael Jackson, the O'Jays, Temptations and all the other "Oldies but Goodies" artists that my mother and aunt were listening to.
But my dad, Ron Artest, Sr., eventually turned me into a big boxing fan. I remember that historic fight when Iron Mike lost in Tokyo to Buster Douglas. My dad was upset how Mike did fight right but still lost, and my sisters and mom were flabbergasted. I actually cried, and my dad put me on punishment -- which in retrospect, I think was more for Tyson's shocking and unexpected loss than anything I did.
That same type of energy and anticipation surrounds the upcoming Pac-Man vs. Money May fight. Pac is a good guy and has let me enjoy the training process through being around his training camp. Money May is a loyal friend and great-hearted person. A couple years ago, Mayweather paid for me and my friends to come perform at his charity event in Grand Rapids, Mich. -- which was a great experience. But I'm actually closer to the Pac-Man camp than the Money May camp. Both these fighters give back to their communities and never forget about their friends. So now when I'll watch the fight, I really won't know who to cheer for. If I had to choose to watch these two legends fight or not see them fight -- I have no favorites and would not want to throw my support for any particular fighter -- I would choose to see them fight.
Before I caught on to Pac-Man's exploding career, I was a heavy Money May fan. I did not believe anybody could beat him. (I did originally think Zab [Judah] could win because he was so quick, but I think Zab was partying too much and it caught up to him in that fight.) I also wanted to see Money May retire undefeated. Sometimes I wish he didn't fight so he could retire untouched. I also believe Money May could beat Pavlik and Hopkins if he ever moves up in weight.
Speaking on the same welterweight class, however, I believe Pac-Man is the only fighter who can beat Money May. I feel if it goes the distance that Pac will have got some shots off to gain points. I do believe May will hit with clean shots that Pac won't see, and may be able to win with a knockout. My heart will pump faster if I see Pac hit Money, and if Money knocks Pac down I may break a sweat. I'm totally upset this fight is not tomorrow.
Since I'm friends with both, may the best man win.
Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/mma/boxing/12/16/artest.boxing/#ixzz0Zxd9QRTw
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Source: sportsillustrated.cnn.com
Pacman up against Mayweather trash-talks
By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 17, 2009 12:00 AM
MANILA, Philippines
- Floyd Mayweather Sr. is just as good a trash-talker as Floyd Mayweather Jr.
The boxing trainer who claims to be the best out there, once again lashed out at Manny Pacquiao and his trainer Freddie Roach, and boldly predicted that on March 13, 2010, if and when the fight ever takes place, the world would see who the better fighter is.
“Pacquiao is a terrible man. The man doesn’t move his damn head... he jumps straight in. Hey man,you gonna see. You gonna see,” said the old man, who just never runs of bad things to say against the Filipino pound-for-pound champion and his trainer as well.
He said Pacquiao never really wanted to fight Mayweather Jr., the undefeated ex-pound-for-pound king. It’s just that Bob Arum of Top Rank wanted the fight so bad that he managed to get Pacquiao into an agreement to set the fight the soonest time possible.
“Yeah man. Lil Floyd... agreed to the terms, then Freddie Roach started backtracking. He said it was all on Lil Floyd and they were ready to go and this and that, and then he changed it to Manny got a busted eardrum, March is too soon and all that s--t.
“Man, get the f---k out of here. How long of a training camp do they need? It’s not until March. I really don’t think Pacquiao wanted to fight Lil Floyd. He knows what he’s up against,” said Mayweather Sr.
The problem is he said the same things when Pacquiao faced Oscar dela Hoya, Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto, and the 30-year-old Pinoy icon whipped them all. Again, Mayweather Sr. found ways to get out of the hole.
“A trainer can only give instructions, man. Hatton was scared of Pacquiao though. And Cotto was done after the (Antonio) Margarito fight, man. Lil Floyd hasn’t taken any damage in the fight game and Pacquiao knows he is fighting a different animal, man,” he said.
Pacquiao had wanted to file libel charges against the old Mayweather for saying he was into steroids, but pulled out of the plan, when he realized, well, according to one of his advisers, “that they couldn’t get anything from Mayweather if they win the case.”
Pacquiao knows what he’s up against, and it’s a pair of trash-talkers.
“(Ang pagkakaiba ni Floyd Mayweather sa ibang nakalaban ko ay si Floyd, marami siyang trash talk na di dapat gayahin ng mga bata (The difference between Floyd with the other fighters I went up against is that he talks a lot of trash which should not be emulated by kids),” said Pacquiao.
On March 13, as in his previous fights, Pacquiao will let his punches do the talking.
Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=533319&publicationSubCategoryId=445
MANILA, Philippines
- Floyd Mayweather Sr. is just as good a trash-talker as Floyd Mayweather Jr.
The boxing trainer who claims to be the best out there, once again lashed out at Manny Pacquiao and his trainer Freddie Roach, and boldly predicted that on March 13, 2010, if and when the fight ever takes place, the world would see who the better fighter is.
“Pacquiao is a terrible man. The man doesn’t move his damn head... he jumps straight in. Hey man,you gonna see. You gonna see,” said the old man, who just never runs of bad things to say against the Filipino pound-for-pound champion and his trainer as well.
He said Pacquiao never really wanted to fight Mayweather Jr., the undefeated ex-pound-for-pound king. It’s just that Bob Arum of Top Rank wanted the fight so bad that he managed to get Pacquiao into an agreement to set the fight the soonest time possible.
“Yeah man. Lil Floyd... agreed to the terms, then Freddie Roach started backtracking. He said it was all on Lil Floyd and they were ready to go and this and that, and then he changed it to Manny got a busted eardrum, March is too soon and all that s--t.
“Man, get the f---k out of here. How long of a training camp do they need? It’s not until March. I really don’t think Pacquiao wanted to fight Lil Floyd. He knows what he’s up against,” said Mayweather Sr.
The problem is he said the same things when Pacquiao faced Oscar dela Hoya, Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto, and the 30-year-old Pinoy icon whipped them all. Again, Mayweather Sr. found ways to get out of the hole.
“A trainer can only give instructions, man. Hatton was scared of Pacquiao though. And Cotto was done after the (Antonio) Margarito fight, man. Lil Floyd hasn’t taken any damage in the fight game and Pacquiao knows he is fighting a different animal, man,” he said.
Pacquiao had wanted to file libel charges against the old Mayweather for saying he was into steroids, but pulled out of the plan, when he realized, well, according to one of his advisers, “that they couldn’t get anything from Mayweather if they win the case.”
Pacquiao knows what he’s up against, and it’s a pair of trash-talkers.
“(Ang pagkakaiba ni Floyd Mayweather sa ibang nakalaban ko ay si Floyd, marami siyang trash talk na di dapat gayahin ng mga bata (The difference between Floyd with the other fighters I went up against is that he talks a lot of trash which should not be emulated by kids),” said Pacquiao.
On March 13, as in his previous fights, Pacquiao will let his punches do the talking.
Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=533319&publicationSubCategoryId=445
Win Or Lose, Mayweather Gains A Whole Lot
December 16th, 2009
Kenneth Ragpala
Floyd Mayweather is still undefeated after 40 professional fights. Against Manny Pacquiao, there is a chance that Pretty Boy will taste his first defeat. The Filipino slugger has the skills and the speed to beat Mayweather. However, that does not mean Pacquiao already has his victory guaranteed. After all, Mayweather is the best fighter in this generation when it comes to defense.
Having said that, Mayweather’s upcoming match between Pacquiao is an all-win situation for the American, win or lose. As far as the purse is concerned, both fighters are projected to make at least $25 million. That excludes the PPVs, ticket sales, and other company promotions. With regards to the Benjamins, they are both winners.
But money aside, this fight will elevate Mayweather to higher heights. Here’s how it will go.
If Mayweather wins, he can finally end the debate as to who is the best fighter of this generation. A win will also make him a much more bankable star than he is today (comparing the ticket sales and PPV buys between Firepower and Number 1/Numero 1, Pacquiao is the hottest item right now), which will open doors to much more lucrative fights – a fight with Paul Williams or the winner of Mosley-Berto matchup looms ahead.
If Mayweather loses, he can still hold his head up high as he will gain most (not all, there will always be hardcore haters) of the boxing fans’ respect and admiration for giving them the fight they wanted. Pacquiao may not be his size but he is certainly a threat to Mayweather, and a loss to Pacquiao is worth a lot of credit, especially with Pacquiao’s latest achievements. People would still pay to watch him fight, especially against Shane Mosley should the latter gets past Berto. That’s for sure.
That said, nobody wants to be on the losing end in this fight. A whole lot is at stake – pride, title, legacy, bragging rights, and history. If this fight live up to the flattery and comparison of Leonard-Duran or Hearns-Hagler fights, both fighters will be forever etched in the annals of boxing history.
Source: 8countnews.com
Kenneth Ragpala
Floyd Mayweather is still undefeated after 40 professional fights. Against Manny Pacquiao, there is a chance that Pretty Boy will taste his first defeat. The Filipino slugger has the skills and the speed to beat Mayweather. However, that does not mean Pacquiao already has his victory guaranteed. After all, Mayweather is the best fighter in this generation when it comes to defense.
Having said that, Mayweather’s upcoming match between Pacquiao is an all-win situation for the American, win or lose. As far as the purse is concerned, both fighters are projected to make at least $25 million. That excludes the PPVs, ticket sales, and other company promotions. With regards to the Benjamins, they are both winners.
But money aside, this fight will elevate Mayweather to higher heights. Here’s how it will go.
If Mayweather wins, he can finally end the debate as to who is the best fighter of this generation. A win will also make him a much more bankable star than he is today (comparing the ticket sales and PPV buys between Firepower and Number 1/Numero 1, Pacquiao is the hottest item right now), which will open doors to much more lucrative fights – a fight with Paul Williams or the winner of Mosley-Berto matchup looms ahead.
If Mayweather loses, he can still hold his head up high as he will gain most (not all, there will always be hardcore haters) of the boxing fans’ respect and admiration for giving them the fight they wanted. Pacquiao may not be his size but he is certainly a threat to Mayweather, and a loss to Pacquiao is worth a lot of credit, especially with Pacquiao’s latest achievements. People would still pay to watch him fight, especially against Shane Mosley should the latter gets past Berto. That’s for sure.
That said, nobody wants to be on the losing end in this fight. A whole lot is at stake – pride, title, legacy, bragging rights, and history. If this fight live up to the flattery and comparison of Leonard-Duran or Hearns-Hagler fights, both fighters will be forever etched in the annals of boxing history.
Source: 8countnews.com
“IT’S PACQUIAO BY POINTS” - Roach
By Eddie Alinea
PhilBoxing.com
Wed, 16 Dec 2009
Saying Floyd Mayweather is, in style, far from Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto and even Oscar De La Hoya, Manny Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach expressed confidence that his ward will also dispose of the unbeaten American.
Roach, known to correctly predict the knockout outcomes of at least three previous Pacquiao fights, said though that it most-likely that the Filipino seven-division champion will prevail on points in the past and present best pound-for-pound fighters on March 13 at a place still subject to negotiations.
The reason, he said, is that the 40-0 win-loss record-holder is a tougher opponent than the last three and it won’t be a simple task of ``knocking him out.”
"I look at it as a very complicated fight. The truth is, it will be difficult and we have to work a lot with Manny on strategy, because Floyd is a great fighter, fast, very defensive and he is smart. But we still have two months to make it work for everything to happen [for us],’’ Roach The Record as quoted by Boxing Scene.
Although the fight is closer than the earlier proposed month of May, the three-time “Trainer of the Year” honoree said there is more than enough time to prepare for the super fight.
"We are going to spend one month in the Philippines and another in Los Angeles (to prepare) for the fight. I believe we have ideal time to properly prepare and get ready for Pacquiao to win a decision," Roach said.
Meanwhile, a source close to the negotiations, said the chances are the March encounter will be finalized, if not within the week, early next week.
No definite venue has been agreed upon although reports are that, among those bidding, the MGM Grand in Las Vegas is the frontrunner. Texas' Dallas Cowboys has made a strong $25 million dollar bid to steal it away, but MGM is said to be putting together a deal that will reach over $30 million.
All bases looked to have been covered, including Olympic style drug testing of both fighters.
"The fight will definitely be finalized this week," the source said.
(Eddie Alinea's articles also appear in the Philippine Gazette)
Source: philboxing.com
PhilBoxing.com
Wed, 16 Dec 2009
Saying Floyd Mayweather is, in style, far from Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto and even Oscar De La Hoya, Manny Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach expressed confidence that his ward will also dispose of the unbeaten American.
Roach, known to correctly predict the knockout outcomes of at least three previous Pacquiao fights, said though that it most-likely that the Filipino seven-division champion will prevail on points in the past and present best pound-for-pound fighters on March 13 at a place still subject to negotiations.
The reason, he said, is that the 40-0 win-loss record-holder is a tougher opponent than the last three and it won’t be a simple task of ``knocking him out.”
"I look at it as a very complicated fight. The truth is, it will be difficult and we have to work a lot with Manny on strategy, because Floyd is a great fighter, fast, very defensive and he is smart. But we still have two months to make it work for everything to happen [for us],’’ Roach The Record as quoted by Boxing Scene.
Although the fight is closer than the earlier proposed month of May, the three-time “Trainer of the Year” honoree said there is more than enough time to prepare for the super fight.
"We are going to spend one month in the Philippines and another in Los Angeles (to prepare) for the fight. I believe we have ideal time to properly prepare and get ready for Pacquiao to win a decision," Roach said.
Meanwhile, a source close to the negotiations, said the chances are the March encounter will be finalized, if not within the week, early next week.
No definite venue has been agreed upon although reports are that, among those bidding, the MGM Grand in Las Vegas is the frontrunner. Texas' Dallas Cowboys has made a strong $25 million dollar bid to steal it away, but MGM is said to be putting together a deal that will reach over $30 million.
All bases looked to have been covered, including Olympic style drug testing of both fighters.
"The fight will definitely be finalized this week," the source said.
(Eddie Alinea's articles also appear in the Philippine Gazette)
Source: philboxing.com
MAYWEATHER CAMP RAISES A PROBLEM A DAY
By Ronnie Nathanielsz
PhilBoxing.com
Wed, 16 Dec 2009
It seems the camp of undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr keeps raising different issues on a daily basis on the planned super fight against pound-for-pound king king Manny Pacquiao set for March 13 at either the $1.2 billion state-of-the-art stadium of the Dallas Cowboys or the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
It began when Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer at the last minute refused to fly to Dallas, Texas to meet with Cowboys owner Jerry Jones despite the fact that the trip had been talked about for days by the media.
Then the Mayweather advisers Leonard Ellerbe and Al Hayman demanded that Pacquiao undergo an Olympic-type drug testing with Ellerbe insinuating what Floyd Mayweather Sr has been openly alleging and that is, that Pacquiao is on some performance-enhancing drug despite the fact that Keith Kizer, Executive Director of the Nevada State Athletic Commission reiterated that the boxing hero had been tested before and after every fight and showed absolutely no trace of any illegal substance.
In their latest caper, according to Ringside Report by managing editor Geno McGahee, Mayweather Jr has threatened to pull-out over a weight issue. While Pacquiao agreed to put his WBO welterweight title on the line at 147 pounds and wants Mayweather to pay a huge penalty for every pound above the limit which would be a bigger amount than the $600,000 he paid Juan Manuel Marquez for being two pounds over the agreed limit in their October 2 fight. McGahee says Mayweather wants some “wiggle room” on the weight issue and this is being contested by Team Pacquiao.
Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach has made it clear that he doesn’t want Pacquiao who has risen to win seven world titles in seven different weight divisions to give Mayweather an undue weight advantage and rightfully so.
Ringside Report quotes a source as saying that the Mayweather camp has suggested an in-between bout in March with Pacquiao facing Yuri Foreman, the WBO light middleweight champion and Mayweather facing Matthew Hatton, the brother of Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton.
In an overseas telephone conversation with www.insidesports.ph, Standard Today and Viva Sports, Arum said “your guess is as good as mine” when asked when a final agreement on the Mayweather fight could be expected.
The astute Top Rank promoter said “we solve one problem Mayweather makes another problem. Everyday, there’s another problem.” Arum added, “let’s see whether we can get it resolved tomorrow.
One of the issues up front is the venue with Dallas making a guaranteed $25 million offer but the MGM Grand the preferred choice of both Pacquiao and Mayweather who, according to David Mayo of the Grand Rapids Press, won’t fight in either Dallas or even the Staples Center which was initially mentioned by Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer. Mayo reported that Schaefer has to clear all decisions with the Mayweather people and they don’t want either Los Angeles or Dallas as the fight venue.ne
Source: philboxing.com
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Pacquiao/Mayweather Undercard: Roach vs. Roger?
It's clear things are going to heat up between the Mayweather and Pacquiao camps as the New Fight of the Century approaches (I'm thinking about just calling in NFOTC). While Pacquiao doesn't talk much Freddie Roach lets his voice be heard, and we all know about the battling Mayweathers. It's going to be loud, lewd, and hilarious, but what if it gets physical? Freddie Roach, Parkinson's and all, is prepared.
On Boxingscene.com he's quoted as saying of Floyd's trainer, Roger Mayweather:
"He says he would knock me out, he was a better fighter than me, I know that, but I'd beat him now! If we did fight now I'd win, but it would be on the street. If he get's disrespectful about me he's gonna have a fight on his hands. It will be exciting. I won't that that **** from him. He didn't have that good a chin, we know that- but he could punch though.
Freddie Roach is right; Roger Mayweather could punch. He had a long and powerful right hand that put many fighters to sleep. He even managed to knock down the iron chinned defensive genius Pernell Whitaker. A look at 1:40 in the video above leaves no doubt Roger had some serious pop in his hands.
But how would he do against Roach? Let's look at the tale of the tape.
Roger Mayweather:
Age: 48
Height: 5' 7 1/2
Stance:Orthodox
Reach: 73 1/2
Highest Fighting Weight: Welter
Pro Record: 59-13 35 KO's
Roger won belts in two divisions and challenged in four; between super featherweight and welterweight. He still has incredible handspeed as we can see from his work on the mitts with Floyd. We also know he isn't one to run from a scrap. Roger has had several encounters with the law in recent years following physical altercations. The most recent example was a still unresolved case of alleged battery against a female boxer in Las Vegas.
Roger fought at the highest levels, though he did lose to most of the elite fighters he faced. His exceptional opposition included Pernell Whitaker, Julio Cesar Chavez, and Kostya Tszyu. He was a really good fighter, but he could be had. That chin of his was fragile, as you can see above.
Freddie Roach:
Age: 49
Height: 5'5
Stance: Orthodox
Highest Fighting Weight: Lightweight
Pro Record: 39-13 15 KO's
Freddie was super-tough, an all-action battler, but he never fought at close to the level that Roger Mayweather managed to. The most distinguished belt he contested for was something called the WBC Continental Lightweight Americas Title. He did face some notable opposition, such as Greg Haugen, Bobby Chacon, and Hector Camacho, but generally had much less success and fought at smaller weights than did Mayweather.
But Roach was a real scrapper, the type of tough guy you wouldn't want to mess with. I remember reading an interview with James Toney, who when talking about why he decided to train with Roach said that the little man challenged him to a fight after Toney was running his mouth. James is a big man, and that's all you need to know about Freddie's instincts when it comes to a rumble.
So what if they actually did go at it on the streets? Who knows, but I'll tell you this, it would be a short fight. Freddie Roach might have parkinson's, but he's been known to take a wayward shot from Pacquiao every now and then. Freddie didn't have huge power, but with his ungloved fist the first landed punch on Roger Mayweather could be the only one needed.
All this is for fun, of course. What I'm really anticipating is a war of words. Both Freddie and Roger are heavyweights in the smack-talking division, and I expect that one to go to a split-decision after a full fifteen rounds
Source: sportingnews.com
Roach okays random tests on both camps
By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 16, 2009 12:00 AM
MANILA, Philippines
- Freddie Roach doesn’t mind putting his fighter under random drug testing as long as the other camp goes through exactly the same procedure.
The three-time Trainer of the Year yesterday reacted to calls made by the camp of Floyd Mayweather Jr. to have Manny Pacquiao
, the hottest fighter out there, to random tests in the weeks leading to their March 13 encounter.
Mayweather’s father, Floyd Sr., has raised concerns that the Filipino pound-for-pound champion, whose amazing run of victories as he moved up in weight has baffled his critics, is into some sort of performance-enhancing drugs.
Roach told The STAR that Pacquiao is a clean fighter, if not the cleanest.
“Yeah, we’ll do it but they have to do it as well. Manny fights clean. If they’ll do it, then we’ll do it,” said Roach as he expressed his willingness to have Pacquiao go through the random tests.
“I don’t have any problem with that. But no blood tests close to the fight. They can take urine tests,” said Roach, adding that it’s how they do it in the Olympics.
The Mayweather people said they want tests like the way it’s being done in the Olympics.
“I had a girlfriend who was in the Olympics in triple jump and that’s how it’s done. They get urine tests. They can come to her in the middle of the night and take urine tests but not blood tests,” Roach added.
He was asked where the heat is coming from and said it all started when Floyd Jr. started raising the issue.
“I don’t know. Maybe they’re just looking for an excuse,” said Roach.
Source: philstar.com
Mayweather-Pacquiao may dance with girl what brung them
NY Boxing Examiner | Michael Marley
Let’s compare fight promoters Top Rank and Golden Boy to automobile dealers.
They’ve both got truckloads of shiny cars on their lots but there is one that really stands out for each dealer.
Bob Arum has the gleaming, glittering 2010 model Manny Pacquiao Porsche, a thrill ride that operates at high speeds and can be extremely dangerous to anything or anyone which impedes its path.
Over at GBP, Oscar de la Hoya and associates have the new model Floyd Mayweather Maybach, a luxury ride fit for royalty and one which has the smoothest acceleration and handling of any car on the road. No doubt, this one is a doozy and a dazzler.
But what about the rest of the car stock?
Top Rank has a Kelly Pavlik which is dented with a loss to Bernard Hopkins and credibility questions and wreckless rumors emanating from Youngstown where, to mix metaphors, Pavlik is the biggest fish in a small pond.
Arum also has Miguel Cotto who, after colliding with Pacman, looks like the big loser in a demolition derby. And then there is Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., who has beaten 143 journeymen but is held back from facing anyone who could run him off the road.
GBP has its clunkers also. Victor Ortiz is recovering from being smashed up by Marcos Maidana. Juan Diaz went into the breakdown lane in a futile chase of Paulie Malignaggi.
The second most attractive model on the GBP lot is Sugar Shane Mosley and he is not allowed to even park anywhere close to Mayweather.
Which brings me to my point, finally.
If the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight winds up at the MGM Grand in Vegas on March 13, the unspoken reason will be because what the two promoters have in common is a year round need to venues for fights less stirring than this Super Bowl type event.
Prime example is Mosley against Andre Berto taking place at Mandalay Bay on Jan. 29. That’s a four wall event meaning the MGM Grand Mirage folks only give the Goldens rooms and food in lieu of a cash site fee.
While Mosley has real star status, he doesn’t cause any panic at the box office and Berto is just a face only hardcore fans know from some less than scintillating HBO bouts.
Without these smaller shows, promoters don’t get to the bigger ones.
In good times and bad, Vegas has been there for boxing.
Grabbing $25 or $30 million from Jerry Jones in Dallas would be sweet but Mayweather-Pacman at the Cowboys’ stadium is a one off.
You can’t go to Uncle Jerry and sell him Berto, Pavlik or any of these other fighters.
So the promoters may decide (as it seems both Pacman and Mayweather already have) that there is a comfort level to Vegas that Texas cannot match.
Mayweather’s last five bouts have been held in Vergas, ditto for the Pinoy Idol.
Sometimes you have to deliver something extra to your steadiest customer and that is reliable Las Vegas.
Las Vegas has taken the sleekest, highest priced models over the year and a load of fights that could be compared to lemon vehicles.
If Mayweather-Pacquiao lands in Nevada, it won’t be a surprise.
They’ll understand down in Tejas.
They will know that the promoters are just dancing with the girl what brung them to the Big Dance anyway.
Source: Examiner.com
Mailbag: Where to stage Floyd-Manny?
By Kevin Iole
The venue for the highly anticipated March 13 bout between unbeaten Floyd Mayweather Jr. and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao will likely be decided by Thursday, Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum said Tuesday.
Arum said the fight, which is expected to break existing boxing revenue and pay-per-view records, will either be at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Cowboys Stadium in Dallas or the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.
Arum said neither fighter has signed a contract, though both men have agreed to the major deal points.
Arum said he hasn’t seen the proposal from officials in Georgia, though he has spoken with Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin. He was planning to fly from Los Angeles to Cleveland on Tuesday and then drive to Youngstown, Ohio, where he is promoting a fight Saturday involving middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik.
“We’ll pick the best proposal and go from there,” Arum said.
The MGM Grand has to be considered the favorite to land the fight, though Arum said Cowboys owner Jerry Jones “won’t give up. He wants this fight there badly.” And Arum said that he understands Atlanta officials are going to go hard after the fight and that their bid includes heavy support from Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue.
Arum said though Pacquiao has agreed to all major points in the deal, there will be some additional points he’ll need to agree to before a contract is ready to be signed. He said none of them were major. The same is true of Mayweather, who is being promoted in this fight by Golden Boy Promotions.
With that, let’s hop into the mailbag and see what’s on your mind. My responses are in italics.
Manny has more advantages
Since the fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao is almost a done deal, I wanted to know why you would give a slight edge to Mayweather as the potential winner? In my opinion, Pacquiao has more advantages than Mayweather. Floyd is facing a fighter who is just as fast, if not faster, than him, and a fighter who is aggressive and always active throwing punches from all angles. Most of the fighters that Floyd has fought are usually much slower than him. Because of that, Mayweather is able to make it look easy with his defense. But as good as he is defensively, he will not be able to avoid fast punches coming from all angles. Pacquiao would force Floyd into a slugfest where he does not excel. An example of that would be the fight with Jose Luis Castillo. Floyd is not used to exchanging more than three punches at a time. Floyd’s chin has not been tested while Pacquiao has withstood grueling fights before. I just want to know if you still give Floyd the edge and, if so, why?
Jaime Vega
Van Nuys, Calif.
It’s a great match and the fighters are very even. I disagree with your contention that Pacquiao will be faster than Mayweather. Manny has fought primarily offensive fighters recently (David Diaz, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto) and those fighters are easier to put hands on. Mayweather’s style is far different and it won’t be as easy for Manny to hit him. I expect a highly competitive, close fight, but my initial thought is that Mayweather’s defense and boxing ability are going to be the difference.
The old Paulie was back
Watching the Juan Diaz-Paulie Malignaggi fight Saturday was awesome. Paulie really proved with a “fair shake” he would get a win over Diaz and prove he isn’t a chump. His jab was fantastic, he looked relaxed and happy to be in the ring, and the stick-and-move tactic proved to be too much! He was clowning around being the Paulie some of us really enjoy to watch (I love that cocky Brooklyn swagger). I’d like to get your take on how he’d do against some of the other boxers in the junior welterweight division. How do you think he’d fare against guys like Timothy Bradley, Amir Khan or Hatton? I really think he proved that he isn’t a has-been or a nothing of the division and should now get his fair shake at these top guys. I really think if he can beat Hatton as badly as he said in his postfight comments, I’d like to see him get a chance at any of those guys and prove what he’s saying.
Brian
Salt Lake City, Utah
I thought Paulie was very impressive, too, and I wasn’t surprised. The 140-pound division is loaded with talent and he’s at or near the top. I’m not sure he’d be able to defeat Timothy Bradley, because Bradley is a major talent, but he’s competitive with everyone there. His boxing skill will keep him in most fights. He was routed by Hatton when they fought in 2008, but I think a rematch would go differently. I’m not saying he’d defeat Hatton the second time around, but it would be much more of a compelling fight than the one 13 months ago was.
Should Iole ‘Man up?’
Well, Kevin, I’m going to go out on a limb and say you probably had the first Diaz-Malignaggi fight go Diaz’s way. Fair enough, as many would argue the same and agree Juan won a close yet not so one-sided decision. However, there are many of us who will beg to differ with you with the robbery that took place in Texas. Your column clearly favors Diaz with the hopes of him clearing up any doubt with a win in New York; had it happened. Obviously by now, you saw the correct decision handed down in Chicago you now fall into that category Paulie was talking about in his postfight interview with Max Kellerman regarding his critics. The question now is a veteran sports writer like yourself man enough to write you were wrong in favoring Diaz.
Adan
El Paso, Texas
I would write that if I did that or believed that, Adan, but I scored the first fight for Paulie and I believed he’d win Saturday with the bigger ring and fair judging. A guy like Paulie, who doesn’t have a lot of power, often feels the world is against him and uses that as motivation.
Klitschkos vs. legends
I’d like to make a comment after having seen both Klitschko brothers fight frequently, and having seen Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, George Foreman and Larry Holmes fight many times. My honest opinion is, prime-to-prime, neither brother could beat Ali (Ali by easy TKO) or Foreman (Foreman by KO), they might edge Holmes but I doubt it (Holmes by decision or late TKO) and would have had the best chance against the much shorter Frazier if they could keep him at arms length. I’d pick either of the Klitschkos by decision against Frazier if the fight was on the outside but I’d choose Frazier if it became an inside fight. The Klitschkos are head and shoulders above any of the challengers now and with focus should round up the last of the sanctioning body titles, the World Boxing Association, in 2010. Alas, the quality of the challengers make the legends and they have none, though stoppages of WBA champion David Haye and Nikolai Valuev and a couple of others next year should begin to make them seem legendary.
Don Greene
Lansing, N.C.
Don, I agree with much of what you say, though not necessarily your picks. After Vitali routed Cristobal Arreola in September, I wrote he’d have no challenges and would dominate for a long time. And you are correct in that one achieves legendary status by defeating other highly regarded boxers, of which there are none among the heavyweights these days. I agree with your assessment of how either Klitschko would match against Frazier, but I doubt Ali would easily TKO them. I think Ali’s speed would be a problem for either, particularly Vitali, but their size would pose problems for Ali. It’s too bad we can’t see fights like that in the heavyweight division today, though. Here’s hoping a talented young guy develops who can legitimately challenge the Klitschkos before they’re through.
Feeling sorry for the Klitschkos
Kevin, I feel sorry for the Klitschko brothers. The lack of competition in the heavyweight division is such that they’re no longer worthy of being on live TV in the U.S. I remember the days when HBO would show them live, no matter what. Now, unless they fight in the U.S., their fights are only aired on a delayed basis. Is there any hope for them? And on a side note, whatever happened to ‘Baby’ Joe Mesi? Thanks, and have a Merry Christmas.
Mark Miller
Fort Worth, Texas
Thanks, Mark, and Happy Holidays to you, as well. A fight with David Haye would be an intriguing promotion, though I don’t think the Hayemaker could handle either Klitschko. And a fight with Valuev would have some sort of a freak show quality to it, but there’s not much else there. As for Mesi, he came back and fought a few times after Nevada denied him his boxing license because of a subdural hematoma. He’s no longer active and is involved in politics near his Buffalo, N.Y., home.
Bradley is extraordinary
I know I keep repeating myself every time I write to you about Timothy Bradley. Wow and impressive are the two words that keep coming to mind. Anyone who didn’t catch his fight with Lamont Peterson missed out on a dazzling performance. Peterson is a highly skilled and was a very game opponent, but Bradley outclassed him and controlled most of the fight. I would love to see Bradley against Juan Manuel Marquez or even Manny Pacquiao. A fight with Amir Khan before would be exciting, more risk than reward for Bradley at this point. That’s just the kind of fighter Bradley is, so I won’t be surprised if he takes it anyway.
Mike C.
Van Nuys, Calif.
I think Bradley is an exceptional talent. He is on the verge of the pound-for-pound top 10, if he’s not already there, and I think he’d handle Marquez or Khan at this stage. But he’s the kind of guy who is willing to fight anyone and I’d anticipate him involved in major fights in 2010.
Source: Yahoo Sports
The venue for the highly anticipated March 13 bout between unbeaten Floyd Mayweather Jr. and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao will likely be decided by Thursday, Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum said Tuesday.
Arum said the fight, which is expected to break existing boxing revenue and pay-per-view records, will either be at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Cowboys Stadium in Dallas or the Georgia Dome in Atlanta.
Arum said neither fighter has signed a contract, though both men have agreed to the major deal points.
Arum said he hasn’t seen the proposal from officials in Georgia, though he has spoken with Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin. He was planning to fly from Los Angeles to Cleveland on Tuesday and then drive to Youngstown, Ohio, where he is promoting a fight Saturday involving middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik.
“We’ll pick the best proposal and go from there,” Arum said.
The MGM Grand has to be considered the favorite to land the fight, though Arum said Cowboys owner Jerry Jones “won’t give up. He wants this fight there badly.” And Arum said that he understands Atlanta officials are going to go hard after the fight and that their bid includes heavy support from Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue.
Arum said though Pacquiao has agreed to all major points in the deal, there will be some additional points he’ll need to agree to before a contract is ready to be signed. He said none of them were major. The same is true of Mayweather, who is being promoted in this fight by Golden Boy Promotions.
With that, let’s hop into the mailbag and see what’s on your mind. My responses are in italics.
Manny has more advantages
Since the fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao is almost a done deal, I wanted to know why you would give a slight edge to Mayweather as the potential winner? In my opinion, Pacquiao has more advantages than Mayweather. Floyd is facing a fighter who is just as fast, if not faster, than him, and a fighter who is aggressive and always active throwing punches from all angles. Most of the fighters that Floyd has fought are usually much slower than him. Because of that, Mayweather is able to make it look easy with his defense. But as good as he is defensively, he will not be able to avoid fast punches coming from all angles. Pacquiao would force Floyd into a slugfest where he does not excel. An example of that would be the fight with Jose Luis Castillo. Floyd is not used to exchanging more than three punches at a time. Floyd’s chin has not been tested while Pacquiao has withstood grueling fights before. I just want to know if you still give Floyd the edge and, if so, why?
Jaime Vega
Van Nuys, Calif.
It’s a great match and the fighters are very even. I disagree with your contention that Pacquiao will be faster than Mayweather. Manny has fought primarily offensive fighters recently (David Diaz, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton and Miguel Cotto) and those fighters are easier to put hands on. Mayweather’s style is far different and it won’t be as easy for Manny to hit him. I expect a highly competitive, close fight, but my initial thought is that Mayweather’s defense and boxing ability are going to be the difference.
The old Paulie was back
Watching the Juan Diaz-Paulie Malignaggi fight Saturday was awesome. Paulie really proved with a “fair shake” he would get a win over Diaz and prove he isn’t a chump. His jab was fantastic, he looked relaxed and happy to be in the ring, and the stick-and-move tactic proved to be too much! He was clowning around being the Paulie some of us really enjoy to watch (I love that cocky Brooklyn swagger). I’d like to get your take on how he’d do against some of the other boxers in the junior welterweight division. How do you think he’d fare against guys like Timothy Bradley, Amir Khan or Hatton? I really think he proved that he isn’t a has-been or a nothing of the division and should now get his fair shake at these top guys. I really think if he can beat Hatton as badly as he said in his postfight comments, I’d like to see him get a chance at any of those guys and prove what he’s saying.
Brian
Salt Lake City, Utah
I thought Paulie was very impressive, too, and I wasn’t surprised. The 140-pound division is loaded with talent and he’s at or near the top. I’m not sure he’d be able to defeat Timothy Bradley, because Bradley is a major talent, but he’s competitive with everyone there. His boxing skill will keep him in most fights. He was routed by Hatton when they fought in 2008, but I think a rematch would go differently. I’m not saying he’d defeat Hatton the second time around, but it would be much more of a compelling fight than the one 13 months ago was.
Should Iole ‘Man up?’
Well, Kevin, I’m going to go out on a limb and say you probably had the first Diaz-Malignaggi fight go Diaz’s way. Fair enough, as many would argue the same and agree Juan won a close yet not so one-sided decision. However, there are many of us who will beg to differ with you with the robbery that took place in Texas. Your column clearly favors Diaz with the hopes of him clearing up any doubt with a win in New York; had it happened. Obviously by now, you saw the correct decision handed down in Chicago you now fall into that category Paulie was talking about in his postfight interview with Max Kellerman regarding his critics. The question now is a veteran sports writer like yourself man enough to write you were wrong in favoring Diaz.
Adan
El Paso, Texas
I would write that if I did that or believed that, Adan, but I scored the first fight for Paulie and I believed he’d win Saturday with the bigger ring and fair judging. A guy like Paulie, who doesn’t have a lot of power, often feels the world is against him and uses that as motivation.
Klitschkos vs. legends
I’d like to make a comment after having seen both Klitschko brothers fight frequently, and having seen Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, George Foreman and Larry Holmes fight many times. My honest opinion is, prime-to-prime, neither brother could beat Ali (Ali by easy TKO) or Foreman (Foreman by KO), they might edge Holmes but I doubt it (Holmes by decision or late TKO) and would have had the best chance against the much shorter Frazier if they could keep him at arms length. I’d pick either of the Klitschkos by decision against Frazier if the fight was on the outside but I’d choose Frazier if it became an inside fight. The Klitschkos are head and shoulders above any of the challengers now and with focus should round up the last of the sanctioning body titles, the World Boxing Association, in 2010. Alas, the quality of the challengers make the legends and they have none, though stoppages of WBA champion David Haye and Nikolai Valuev and a couple of others next year should begin to make them seem legendary.
Don Greene
Lansing, N.C.
Don, I agree with much of what you say, though not necessarily your picks. After Vitali routed Cristobal Arreola in September, I wrote he’d have no challenges and would dominate for a long time. And you are correct in that one achieves legendary status by defeating other highly regarded boxers, of which there are none among the heavyweights these days. I agree with your assessment of how either Klitschko would match against Frazier, but I doubt Ali would easily TKO them. I think Ali’s speed would be a problem for either, particularly Vitali, but their size would pose problems for Ali. It’s too bad we can’t see fights like that in the heavyweight division today, though. Here’s hoping a talented young guy develops who can legitimately challenge the Klitschkos before they’re through.
Feeling sorry for the Klitschkos
Kevin, I feel sorry for the Klitschko brothers. The lack of competition in the heavyweight division is such that they’re no longer worthy of being on live TV in the U.S. I remember the days when HBO would show them live, no matter what. Now, unless they fight in the U.S., their fights are only aired on a delayed basis. Is there any hope for them? And on a side note, whatever happened to ‘Baby’ Joe Mesi? Thanks, and have a Merry Christmas.
Mark Miller
Fort Worth, Texas
Thanks, Mark, and Happy Holidays to you, as well. A fight with David Haye would be an intriguing promotion, though I don’t think the Hayemaker could handle either Klitschko. And a fight with Valuev would have some sort of a freak show quality to it, but there’s not much else there. As for Mesi, he came back and fought a few times after Nevada denied him his boxing license because of a subdural hematoma. He’s no longer active and is involved in politics near his Buffalo, N.Y., home.
Bradley is extraordinary
I know I keep repeating myself every time I write to you about Timothy Bradley. Wow and impressive are the two words that keep coming to mind. Anyone who didn’t catch his fight with Lamont Peterson missed out on a dazzling performance. Peterson is a highly skilled and was a very game opponent, but Bradley outclassed him and controlled most of the fight. I would love to see Bradley against Juan Manuel Marquez or even Manny Pacquiao. A fight with Amir Khan before would be exciting, more risk than reward for Bradley at this point. That’s just the kind of fighter Bradley is, so I won’t be surprised if he takes it anyway.
Mike C.
Van Nuys, Calif.
I think Bradley is an exceptional talent. He is on the verge of the pound-for-pound top 10, if he’s not already there, and I think he’d handle Marquez or Khan at this stage. But he’s the kind of guy who is willing to fight anyone and I’d anticipate him involved in major fights in 2010.
Source: Yahoo Sports
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