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TEARS FOR BATTERED BOXER

2009-05-03T23:54:00.000-07:00

HE has been one of Britain’s most successful sportsmen for years.

But for Ricky Hatton’s fiancee Jennifer Dooley, the pain of seeing her man defeated and lying unconscious in a boxing ring was too much.

The glamorous blonde – known as Ricky’s Rock – let out an ear-piercing scream just seconds earlier as she watched Hatton fall for the third and final time in his short fight against Filipino Manny Pacquiao on Saturday night.

For three agonising minutes, the former college lecturer slumped forward weeping as the Mancunian lay sprawled on the canvas before medics revived him.

The 30-year-old was comforted by Jenna Coyne, girlfriend of Hatton’s younger brother Matthew – who had earlier won his fight at the same venue – after seeing the British world champion knocked out in the second round.

Beside them, Hatton’s mother Carol turned away unable to look on as the medical team worked away.

Pacquiao, known as Pac Man, felled “The Hitman” with a brutally quick left hook to the chin 15 seconds before the end of the second round of their IBO world light-welterweight title fight.

Seeing holder Hatton fall unconscious even before he hit the canvas, left referee Kenny Bayless no option but to stop the fight instantly. He was twice felled in the previous round.

Hatton, 30, was helped back to his corner before being taken to hospital for a precautionary check. He landed just 18 punches against Pacquiao’s 73.

It was a star-studded affair at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas for the fight dubbed “The Battle of East and West”.

Many celebrities, including Jack Nicholson, Denzel Washington and British boxer Amir Khan, were ringside. Comedian Russell Brand sat next to rap mogul P. Diddy and they were later joined by superstar rapper Jay Z.

Singer Mariah Carey and husband Nick Cannon, who celebrated their first wedding anniversary last week, saw Hatton’s defeat, as well as Welsh crooner Tom Jones who sang the national anthem. Chelsea footballer Joe Cole and girlfriend Carly Zucker were also spotted.

The knockout, only the second in his 47-fight professional career, left many in the sport, including his trainer, urging him to hang up his gloves.

His father Ray, also ringside, said his son was “perfectly all right” after hospital checks. But he admitted his long-term future was now in doubt.

“Obviously we will support him in whatever he does,” he said. “And we’ll leave that with him. At this moment he’s probably got a few mixed feelings.

“He’ll make that decision whichever way he wants to and the family will support him. I don’t think he would let anybody make that decision for him.”

Source: http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/98845/Tears-for-battered-boxer-

With one ferocious blow by Manny Pacquiao, Ricky Hatton's amazing career is laid to rest

2009-05-03T23:53:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton will not fight again. Not the one the fans remember. Even if a shredded remnant of the fighter who thrilled them for a decade contemplates doing so when he recovers from the shocking knockout Manny Pacquiao inflicted on him at the MGM Grand, the real Ricky Hatton started preparing for retirement soon after enduring a similar experience in the same ring 17 months ago.

The left hook with which Floyd Mayweather Jr repelled Hatton's crude challenge in the 10th round of their welterweight title fight in December 2007 was the punch that instigated the Mancunian's slow exit from boxing. Until then, he was unbeaten, unfazed, the shiny young champion of his people. He was to grow old quickly. "He can't take a quality shot any more," a close friend said later on Saturday night, "and I think he knows it."

Mayweather's punch did not have the concussive finality of Pacquiao's wicked left, but the two blows will forever be linked. Pacquiao's arrived in the final second of round two, the third knockdown blow the Filipino had to throw to claim Hatton's IBO and Ring Magazine light-welterweight titles, and if Hatton heeds the wishes of family and friends the last one he will ever take.

Pacquiao put Hatton down in the first round with a right hook he admitted to his corner he never saw, and again with a short left before the bell. From that point on, it was clear we were in for a short night. Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, told later how they had worked on that right hook for weeks. "Ricky cocks his punches before he throws 'em. Every time he left an opening, Pacquiao's so quick, I knew the inside hook would work every time."

This was an echo of the strategic naivety Hatton showed against Mayweather, when he was out-thought and knocked down by a punch devised by the American's uncle and trainer, Roger.

Hatton seemed to have collected his thoughts when they resumed but was again afflicted by the "red mist" he blames for his wild, swinging ways and walked into more pinpoint shots from the smaller man. When the end came, it was as if we were all sharing the same, slow nightmare, so lightly did Hatton float to the floor. When he landed, he could barely open his eyes, but you could see the pain in them as he lay motionless, the referee, Ken Bayless, not needing to count him out.

Hatton did not just lose a fight and his titles at that moment. He lost all connection with the rest of us in the arena, the power drained from a body he had taken three months to whip into shape.

But the appearance of those rippling muscles could not disguise the damage he has done over the years with a hard-drinking lifestyle taken from some northern manual on male behaviour. It has been this, above all other follies, that has undermined his career, although he will not admit to it because he is a prisoner of his own making, a super-lad among lads.

By the time Hatton had recovered in the Valley hospital off Las Vegas Boulevard in the early hours of yesterday morning, he had Pacquiao's fists, not pints of Guinness, to thank for his headache, and he was greeted immediately by a mixed chorus of advice. Roach, the mastermind of his downfall, cautioned against carrying on. "He's had some mega-fights," he said. "He's had a great career. So, why? He doesn't need it. He has a family, he has a son. With commitments like that, he's got to think about retiring."

It will not be easy, but he will almost certainly walk away, having earned more than £30m in 12 years of largely exhilarating success, spoiled only towards the end by losing to two of the modern greats in Mayweather and Pacquiao. That fact will be the cornerstone of his justification for retiring now, the centrepiece of his nightclub act when he regains his self-esteem and goes back before his public.

That is the only consolation Hatton can take from the defeat. He lost to a fighter who Roach says is on his way to a special kind of greatness, a fighter who is now the hottest property in boxing. Mayweather, officially unretired, will want a piece of him, although Pacquiao now holds all the aces. "We're in no hurry," Roach says.

No amount of considered reflection will change the facts for Hatton, meanwhile: even if he wants to fight again, there is nobody for him to fight. What Pacquiao exposed was the last piece of evidence in a case that has been building steadily for a couple of years. Hatton's punch resistance has fallen to a dangerously low level. "The likes of Timothy Bradley and Kendall Holt would knock him out," a friend of Hatton's said. "Amir Khan would knock him out."

Juan Lazcano nearly stopped him in his comeback fight last year and even the light-hitting Paulie Malignaggi inconvenienced him a couple of times before Pacquiao got to him. The weeks, days and moments before this fight were fraught.

There were rows between his trainer, Floyd Mayweather Sr, and his assistant, Lee Beard. There was speculation – since confirmed – that Roach had been asked to take over his training in the future. And there was a grim mood in the dressing room immediately before the fight.

"He was very nervous in the dressing room before the fight," a friend said. "I don't think he thought he was going to win, even then. I think he suspected he didn't have it anymore, but you can't admit that, not even to yourself."

For weeks, Hatton had railed against those who said that he was going to lose to the best fighter in the world. He sounded then as if he were trying to convince himself but, when it came to proving it, Hatton was in no position to argue the case. He was unconscious and lying flat on his back in the middle of the ring, as former a fighter as it is possible to be.

Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2009/may/04/ricky-hatton-manny-pacquiao-retirement-boxing

Manny Pacquiao could have the boxing market cornered

2009-05-03T23:51:00.000-07:00

Reporting from Las Vegas -- Manny Pacquiao prides himself as a smart businessman who knows how to play poker. Let future opponents beware: He walked out of the MGM Grand casino-hotel this weekend with a stack of chips.

A record-tying world title in a sixth division. A fourth consecutive victory in a different weight class. And a one-sided performance in a major fight that, compared to the Tyson-Spinks mauling and George Foreman's "Down goes Frazier!" triumph, has given Pacquiao unprecedented power in mapping his immediate fighting future.

The best pound-for-pound fighter in the world coming off a second-round knockout victory like that in a lucrative junior-welterweight championship bout against Ricky Hatton? That creates perks.

After the first major bout of the post-Oscar De La Hoya era, Pacquiao is now the man. He is empowered to pick who he wants to fight, when he wants to fight them, and at what weight.

The handful of opponents before him includes Pomona's world welterweight champion Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, unbeaten lightweight champion Edwin Valero, Mexico's popular Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and unbeaten and recently unretired Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The problem with Mayweather is that he signed Friday to fight Mexico's Juan Manuel Marquez on July 18. The move surprised the Pacquiao camp, who say they are unlikely to rest until the super-fight.

"A busy fighter is a good fighter, we're not going to wait around," Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach said. "Mayweather just had to wait one day and this fight could've happened. I think he's scared of Manny."

Privately, the Pacquiao camp said Mayweather Jr. harmed his leverage in future Pacquiao negotiations -- perhaps for a bout early next year -- by agreeing to fight Marquez in a bout expected to struggle for pay-per-view buys.

Meanwhile, the buzz around Pacquiao (49-3-2, 36 knockouts) intensified after he knocked down Hatton three times, including a highlight-reel left hook that flattened Hatton with one second left in the second round.

Pacquiao, 30, is in peak shape, showcasing ring smarts that have caught up to his speed and punching power. He's better than even those closest to him think. Pacquiao business manager Michael Koncz said before the fight that he bet at the sports book that his fighter would knock out Hatton in three to six rounds.

Roach, for the second consecutive fight, ended the night urging a Pacquiao victim to retire. De La Hoya did, and Hatton should, too, Roach said. "He had a great career, but knockouts like that aren't good for people."

Hatton's promoter Richard Schaefer said Hatton "never mentioned retirement" in a post-fight discussion.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank said, "I have something special in history here, an athlete who's improving every fight. He's like a grand painting."

The next stroke, Arum said, is to have Pacquiao film a movie in the Philippines, then travel to New York in June to pick up his 2008 fighter-of-the-year award and watch Cotto's welterweight title defense against Joshua Clottey. The Pacquiao camp will then huddle to select a new foe.

"Manny will fight anybody. He says, 'Whoever, whatever, no problem, I just do what my coach [Roach] wants me to do,' " Arum's matchmaker, Bruce Trampler, said. "Freddie knows. He thinks about this stuff all the time."

So it's noteworthy that Roach first mentioned Mosley as a future opponent. "As a fan, that's the fight I'd most want to see," Roach said.

Mosley congratulated Pacquiao late Saturday, then quickly lobbied to get that fight while knowing Top Rank could be tempted business-wise to match Pacquiao against Cotto, a Top Rank fighter. Trampler said assuredly there's no such conspiracy theory in play.

"Let's get it done," Mosley said. "I don't see a reason they'd want to fight Cotto when I'm the champion who beat [Antonio] Margarito, who beat Cotto. It'd be a classic fight [against Pacquiao]. We both have good hand speed and power and I think that fans want to see the best fight the best."

Team Pacquiao, however, doesn't want to fight either Mosley or Cotto at the welterweight limit of 147 pounds, and would demand that either move down to a catch-weight bout of 143 pounds, said Roach.

"We can talk," Mosley said.

First, it'll be up to Team Pacquiao to make the call.

Source: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-boxing-pacquiao4-2009may04,0,5137234.story

Shattered Hatton told to retire after devastating defeat

2009-05-03T23:49:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton, who underwent a brain scan following his calamitous defeat by Manny Pacquiao, is being advised to quit boxing.

Freddie Roach, mentor of the Filipino fighter, said: ‘Ricky should call it a day.

'He is well off, he has his family and he doesn’t need to go through anything like this again.

'Very few fighters are ever the same after taking a knockout this bad.

'This was devastating.’

Hatton’s trainer, Floyd Mayweather Snr, was expecting to be fired after a training camp bust-up with the Manchester fighter just before the fight and he made his departure inevitable on Sunday.

‘Ricky lost because he didn’t do what I told him,’ he said.

‘He didn’t keep his hands up. I also told him not to fight so aggressively from the start.

'I can’t fight for him. He should retire.’

But Roach added: ‘I’d been watching the tapes of Ricky for weeks and every fight is the same. He’ll never change.’

Hatton spent just over an hour in hospital and was given the all-clear after his scan, but will delay any decision about his future until he has a chance to review this fight.

He admitted: ‘I was hit a lot. The last punch which put me out was a great shot.

'I know I’ll be OK. I have felt worse after 12 tough rounds.’

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/othersports/article-1177018/Shattered-Hatton-told-retire-devastating-defeat.html

Mexican breakfasts come back to haunt Ricky Hatton

2009-05-03T23:48:00.001-07:00

Even before Ricky Hatton's fight started, the villain of the piece had been identified by Sky's pundits. Step forward Hatton's trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr, roundly condemned by former boxers Johnny Nelson and Nicky Piper for his less than serious demeanour in the run-up to the fight and for the cardinal sin of constantly turning up late for training.

I must say I had already formed the view that the trainer's judgment was open to serious question, watching the preview documentary Sky screened plugging its Box Office coverage. In it, we see footage of Mayweather driving to work – late again – stopping at one of those quasi-Mexican drive-through places to pick up some breakfast/lunch.

He chooses Number 8, which I should have counselled against. It appeared to be three crisp taco shells filled with something pretending to be meat, lots of that gloop that makes cheap Mexican food the bowel-opening crime against humanity that it is, with a cheese-style substance melted on top of the whole disaster. Not only did the trainer make this ill-advised choice – filled taco shells remain Mexico's most toxic export despite anything you might read elsewhere in this newspaper – but he spent rather too long discussing what exactly might be in his meal.

"Has it got, like, tomatoes in it?" Mayweather mumbled into that voice-distorting microphone these places always have, wasting valuable time that might have been better spent explaining to Ricky that Pacquiao was a southpaw. I mean, any man who can live 57 years in the United States and still has to ask what is about to go into his crisp taco shells has clearly not been paying attention.

And then – horror of horrors – Mayweather proceeded to eat the catastrophe while driving his big posh car – a Mercedes or something, I'm not an expert – to the gym where his affable charge patiently waited.

The most junior travelling salesman could have told him that Mexican is not good driving food. Quite apart from the smell – which, in fairness, you could easily clear by driving four or five thousand miles with all the windows open – and the grease on the steering wheel, there is the ever-present danger of spillage.

When I used to drive around a lot – before taking on the sport-on-TV gig, which is the journalistic equivalent of house arrest – the meal-at-the-wheel was one of my most important choices of the day.

A simple yet sustaining sandwich was what I sought. However tempting the deep-fill might look, I resisted it. Certainly, any sandwich containing tomatoes was to be viewed with deep suspicion, because those tomato seeds will fly out of your snack and zero in on a freshly laundered white shirt like a heat-seeking missile. And I made a particular point of slinging a deaf 'un to the honeyed words of the Ginsters people. Pies and pasties will crumble, and as you brush the pastry from your clothing, you may find some of the filling has sneaked out; and gravy smeared on a navy blue suit is never considered an especially good look.

I could not imagine Freddie Roach, Pacquiao's quieter, more serious- looking trainer, making such elementary food-choice errors.

Roach was a telemarketer before taking up training, calling himself Joe Davies and selling pens and mugs, quite successfully apparently. You could never imagine Mayweather Sr being self-effacing enough to change his name and sell stuff over the phone.

And there is another thing. I am not entirely comfortable with the Sr tag. It always says to me that the father has somehow been eclipsed by the son, as in George Formby or Frank Lampard Sr – fine overlapping full-back though he was, with a famously famous left foot. Where the father is the real deal, like Frank Sinatra or Hank Williams, it is the son who has to carry round the Jr tag.

But what, I hear you asking, of the fight? Well, for those of you unable or unwilling to stump up the fifteen quid to watch, what I am trying to do is give you some idea of the balance of Sky's coverage. It began at 10pm, and lasted for 480 minutes, of which less than six were taken up with the fight. Take away the two minutes I spent with my eyes averted from the punishment meted out to my fellow Mancunian, and you will know why the brutal business is relegated to these few words.

Amid all the analysis, the night was best summed up by Hatton's girlfriend Jennifer, who looked as nervous as a kitten before the fight, and ten seconds before the end of round two, put her hands to her face and let out a piercing scream.

Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2009/may/04/martin-kelner-screen-break-ricky-hatton

What does the future hold for Manny Pacquiao?

2009-05-03T23:46:00.000-07:00

Now that the smoke has cleared from the latest “fight of the year”, what’s next for Manny Pacquiao?

A battle with Floyd Mayweather Jr. seems the most likely scenario. But what if Mayweather can’t hack it against Juan Manuel Marquez on July 18? If he loses, where does that leave Pacquiao?

You’d think a fighter of Pacquiao’s stature would draw everyone in the 140- and 147-pound divisions, especially since Pacquiao got $12 million and Hatton $8 million. But this isn’t the 1960s where everyone would fight everyone. Money and promoters usually gum up the works.

There isn’t enough space here for a list of fights that never took place for selfish reasons. Bernard Hopkins-Roy Jones Jr. II, de la Hoya-Trinidad II, Mosley-Mayweather…That doesn’t even scratch the surface.

After his destruction of de la Hoya and Hatton some fighters may even avoid him. Just ask Paul Williams. Finding a good fighter willing to meet you can be frustrating.

Curiously, Pacquiao was coy when asked if he would fight Mayweather, only to say: "I can fight anyone I want to fight at 147 or 140." That doesn't sound like a ringing endorsement for a Pacquiao-Mayweather mega-bout in November.

Just in case he doesn't fight Mayweather, which would totally give fuel to critics who claim boxing is dead, the following is a list of suitable fighters.

Miguel Cotto - Assuming he beats Joshua Clottey on June 13, this would be the next best matchup. Cotto got a new lease on his boxing life after Antonio Margarito was caught cheating.

Shane Mosley - The clock is ticking on Mosley, whose age is bound to catch up with him. Waiting until 2010 for another big fight won't help "Sugar" Shane's cause.

Joshua Clottey - If Clottey can upend Cotto, don't be surprised if you see this matchup. Clottey is filled with confidence and will explode if he tops Cotto.

Juan Manuel Marquez - Right now this seems like a long shot. But if he beats Mayweather, get ready for Marquez-Pacquiao III.

Timothy Bradley - Bradley was just stripped of his WBC junior weltweight title for not meeting the deadline to fight mandatory challenger Devon Alexander. But he is still the WBO champ, and might welcome a chance to put his name in lights. Although a talented fighter and undefeated, Bradley (24-0, 11 KOs) doesn't have the name right now to draw a mega-match.

Other possibilities include Paul Williams and Andre Berto. Williams is an extreme long shot because it's doubtful he would go back to welterweight now. And Berto doesn't have enough of a track record.

- MARCUS HENRY

AP Photo

Source: http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/boxing/blog/2009/05/manny_pacquiao_is_the_hot_tick.html

Hatton's Father: Decision On Boxing Future Up To Ricky

2009-05-03T23:45:00.000-07:00

AHN Sports Staff

London, England (AHN) - The decision on whether he would continue boxing following Saturday's brutal second-round knockout loss to Manny Pacquiao is all up to Ricky Hatton, the Briton's father said Sunday.

"Obviously we will support him in whatever he does," Ray Hatton told Sky Sports. "And we'll leave that with him."

"At this moment in time he's probably got a few mixed feelings about it. He'll make that decision whichever way he wants to and the family will support him," the older Hatton added.

Ricky Hatton lied down sprawled on the MGM Grand canvas in Las Vegas after taking a ferocious left cross from the Filipino pound-for-pound king and later was brought to a nearby hospital for precautionary reasons.

Ray Hatton said the former IBO and The Ring light welterweight champ is doing well after Saturday's fight.

What remains unclear, though, are the days beyond for the former undefeated fighter out of Manchester, England.

"I know privately in a few months' time what he'll be thinking but I wouldn't like to say because I don't want to be putting him under undue pressure. He'll make the decision," Hatton's father said, according to Sky Sports.

By deciding against retirement, Ricky Hatton could avoid the ignonimy of being the second straight Pacquiao victim to call it quits from boxing.

Most recently, Oscar De La Hoya walked away from the sport only five months after taking a beating from Pacquiao.

But one thing going against Hatton in resuming his career is his nasty exit from the ring Saturday.

He's never been defeated at 140 pounds nor was he taken out in such a speedy and ghastly manner. The setback was so devastating that even his trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. said it's time to quit.

The older Mayweather urged "The Hitman" to retire and leave the ring. Going away while at your prime is the thing to do, the cocky trainer said.

Source: http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7015007312

Fight too short, TV ads too long

2009-05-03T23:42:00.000-07:00

THEY CAME IN A FURIOUS, mind-numbing barrage.

No, not the punches that Manny Pacquiao threw to floor Ricky Hatton in two rounds—but the load of advertisements that stretched the fight’s free TV broadcast for hours to the exasperation of millions of Filipino viewers yesterday.

Henry, an air-conditioning system technician in Quezon City, said he turned off his set in frustration after waiting more than an hour for the bout’s “‘delayed telecast’” on GMA 7.

“I already heard on radio (at around noon) that Pacquiao won,” Henry said when reached by the Inquirer at around 1:30 p.m.

“I won’t watch it on TV anymore,” he said in Filipino. “The thrill is gone. It’s so annoying.”

The main event was finally shown at around 2 p.m., but commercial breaks again chopped up the preliminaries into several parts—the entry of the fighters, Martin Nievera’s singing of the Philippine national anthem, Michael Buffer’s ring introductions—that it took another 40 minutes for Round 1 to be aired.

The GMA 7 telecast noticeably skipped the singing of the British national anthem “God Save the Queen” by Tom Jones, and another singer’s rendition of the United States’ “Star Spangled Banner.”

The Inquirer noted that some commercial gaps during the main event ran for up to 8 minutes, while airtime for the pre-fight sequences lasted only about a minute.

But according to GMA 7 insiders, not a single centavo of ad revenue from the fight went to the network.

GMA 7’s partnership with Solar Entertainment, which holds broadcast rights to Pacquiao’s bouts, is a “blocktime deal,” said network officials, who declined to be named for lack of clearance to speak on the matter.

Bigger than De La Hoya fight
“That means that all advertising revenues go to Solar Entertainment. GMA 7 only gets a fixed amount, commensurate with the air time bought by Solar,” said one of the officials.

A Solar executive confirmed that ads from the Pacquiao-Hatton mainer, as well as from the undercards, delivered the biggest payday ever for the company, which has a lock on the Philippine broadcast rights for the Pacman’s fights up to 2011.

Jude Turcuato, Solar Sports vice president for sales and marketing, said Sunday’s blockbuster duel was bigger than the Pacquiao-Oscar De La Hoya showdown held five months ago.

“It’s not big percentage-wise but we’re coming from an already big base, the De La Hoya fight. The bottom line is this is the biggest,” said Turcuato.

He declined to give exact figures, but said the company definitely made more than P100 million on Sunday.

Blanket coverage
Turcuato said the Wilson Tieng-owned media outfit scored record numbers in TV ad placements, ticket sales and pay-per-view subscriptions based on preliminary data.

Compared to the De La Hoya fight, Turcuato said Solar practically also had blanket coverage of all theaters in Metro Manila for the Hatton match.

Solar also got more bookings not only from commercial outlets such as hotels and sports bars, but also from provincial capitols and barangay halls in areas where local officials had to give in to their constituents’ clamor for a live Pacquiao fight, he said.

Turcuato noted that since the De La Hoya fight, Filipinos had been craving for more of the collective experience of watching Pacquiao in real time—not unlike the thrill shared by football fans when watching a World Cup match.

Aside from having Pacquiao pitted against a marketable opponent like Hatton, Turcuato said, the earlier tug-of-war for the broadcast rights to the fight may have also added to the hoopla.

Gaining from controversy
“The controversy actually benefited us in a way because the public became more aware of how big the fight is and it heightened their interest,” Turcuato said, referring to Pacquiao’s aborted transfer to ABS-CBN in March.

Whether Pacquiao’s next foe would be WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto or retired welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr., Turcuato said he is confident that the Pacman’s next bout will be another record-breaking day for Solar.

An ad industry insider told the Inquirer that “multimillion-peso packages” were offered to companies that wanted to place advertisements in the free TV airing of the Pacquiao-Hatton bout.

“Anywhere from P3-million to P15-million package buys were made available,” the source, an executive representing a group of advertisers, disclosed. “No spot or segment buys were allowed.”

Not covered by ad cap
“The lower packages were considered sponsorships only,” the source said. “Companies that availed themselves of P10-P15-million packages were called co-presenters or presenters.”

A broadcast industry insider noted that by partnering with GMA 7, Solar could put in as many commercials as it wanted since the Kapuso network was not covered by the ad cap imposed by the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP). (See “In the Know”)

Unlike its main rival ABS-CBN, GMA 7 is not a member of the KBP.

Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090504-202907/Fight-too-short-TV-ads-too-long

Lay it to rest, Manny Pacquiao is the best

2009-05-03T16:43:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton, his eyes closed, was at rest before his back hit the mat after taking the sleep inducing left hook from Manny Pacquiao in their 2 May 2009 140-lb IBO and Ring Magazine title fight.

After regaining consciousness, Ricky realized that indeed there was somebody who could beat him and who did beat him, and devastatingly, in his claimed domain at 140 lbs. The much hyped Battle of the East and West proved to be not a battle after all because Manny Pacquiao deftly defused it.

Doubters should now put to rest the lame excuse that Oscar dela Hoya was not his usual self when the Pacman beat him like he never was. This excuse downgraded Manny’s accomplishment to some extent. Hatton even bought the idea and said that he could have likewise beaten the drained Oscar that night of 6 December 2008. Oscar’s partial assessment of a stronger and bigger Hatton winning over Manny supported the doubters’ proposition that Manny is not really that great.

With Ricky’s easier and earlier dismissal by Manny than Oscar was, Freddie Roach proves right in his assessment that the Oscar of 6 December 2008 could still beat many top fighters of today. And this does not exclude the Ricky Hatton of 2 May 2009.

When Floyd Mayweather, Jr. announced his comeback, these doubters immediately removed Manny from the top P4P pedestal and reinstalled Floyd to it. That because of Manny’s previous 3 losses as against none to Floyd the latter should be on top. But if past performances against common opponents were to be the gauge, which should not be, Manny’s have the edge.

Floyd struggled with Oscar to earn a split verdict while Manny dominated and made Oscar quit before the start of the 9th round. The old-man-making defeat eventually led to Oscar’s retirement from being a fighter.

It took Floyd almost 10 rounds to beat Ricky who, before the stoppage, was holding his own to give Floyd problems. Manny easily beat Ricky who was on dreamland just before the bell to end the 2nd round. Now Ricky might be contemplating retirement himself.

By unseating Ricky Hatton, Manny won his 6th title in as many weight divisions. More so, he is the first fighter to win a 4th lineal or real championship in 4 weight divisions. He has now won the flyweight, featherweight (which many erroneously do not recognize), junior-lightweight and now junior-welterweight lineal championship.

So the question as to who is the best P4P fighter should now be laid to rest. Even with the return of Floyd Jr. to the mix, the world champion from the east is simply and would still be the best.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-24069.html

Pacquiao proves he's the real man

2009-05-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

FILIPINO southpaw Manny Pacquiao confirmed his status as the world's best boxer, flattening Ricky Hatton in the second round in Las Vegas yesterday, taking a historic victory with a devastating left to the chin that put the Englishman in hospital.

Pacquiao equalled a boxing milestone with a title in a sixth weight class by slamming a powerful left-hand blow into Hatton's chin to buckle his knees and send him to the canvas on his back unconscious.

"It was a hard punch. It was a solid punch," Pacquiao said. "I hit him on the chin and I didn't think he would get up."

Referee Kenny Bayless knelt over the unmoving Hatton and halted the fight after two minutes and 59 seconds of the second round, giving the Filipino a victory and the International Boxing Organisation junior-welterweight title.

"Everybody is surprised. Me, too. I didn't expect this would be so easy," Pacquiao said. "But I have worked hard in training camp. Nothing personal. I was just doing my job."

Hatton awoke and walked from the ring to the locker room but was taken to a nearby hospital as a precaution.

"It was a hard loss but I'm OK," Hatton said. "I didn't really see the punch coming, but it was a great shot. I know I will be OK."

Pacquiao, widely considered the world pound-for-pound champion, won his 10th fight in succession, improving to 49-3, with two drawn, with his 37th early stoppage coming on a spectacular punch for the ages.

"That was the best knockout punch I've ever seen," Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach said. "It was the perfect shot. That rarely happens."

Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum said his charge would be considered the best fighter in history by the end of his career.

But he may face a challenge from Floyd Mayweather Jr for the title of world's best.

Former undisputed welterweight champion Mayweather ranked himself atop the list of boxing's best a few hours before the fight by announcing the end of his 17-month retirement and a comeback on July 18 in the same arena against Mexico's Juan Manuel Marquez.

Mayweather abdicated the pound-for-pound throne that Pacquiao has claimed by winning four consecutive fights in as many weight classes.

"Manny is unbelievable. He's the best fighter in the world," Roach said. "He is in his prime right now. Anyone in the world, he could beat them all."

However, an agreement on what weight the pair would meet at - Pacquiao is comfortable at 140pounds, while Mayweather will fight Marquez at 144 - could prove an insurmountable impasse.

Roach said Mayweather feared facing Pacquiao at a similar weight.

"Mayweather, he just had to wait one day and he could have fought Manny. I think he's afraid of Manny," Roach said. "He made the fight maybe not happen. We're not going to wait for him. There are other great fighters out there."

As for Hatton, who has also been floored by Mayweather, Hatton's trainer - Mayweather's father - said that after two devastating defeats the "Hitman" should call it a day.

"I would suggest he retire. At the end of the day it's his decision," Mayweather Sr said. "He tried twice. He failed twice. He lost to my son and to lose to someone below that, it's time to leave the ring.

"He made a good profit. Sometimes you have to go when your prime is still there.

"A lot of times in boxing when a fighter gets knocked out - I'm not saying this particularly about Ricky - they are just not the same anymore."

Meanwhile, millions of Filipinos danced in the streets and joined raucous parties yesterday as the impoverished southeast Asian nation celebrated Pacquiao's win. Motorists waving the national flag drove through major cities tooting their horns and shouting out of the windows after Pacquiao's victory.

The Philippines' usually jammed highways had been deserted before a delayed broadcast of the Las Vegas fight was screened on free-to-air television, and police said even criminals took the day off.

"It's zero crime rate today," national police spokesman Senior Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome said. "We wish Manny would fight every day so we will have no problems in security."

Troops fighting Muslim militants on Jolo Island also watched the fight, while President Gloria Arroyo took time out from an official visit to Egypt to comment on the win.

"President Gloria Arroyo joins the entire nation in gratitude of God for the spectacular victory of our Manny Pacquiao," her spokesman Cerge Remonde told Filipino radio by telephone.

At least 10,000 people watched a free live screening in Pacquiao's dirt-poor home city of General Santos, while in Manila's depressed Tondo area another 2000 people packed an airless gym to watch the fight.

Source: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,25423790-2722,00.html

Cotto next for Pacquiao – Arum

2009-05-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS — Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum said on Saturday night though many would like to see Manny Pacquiao face Floyd Mayweather Jr., the Filipino’s next likely opponent would be Puerto Rican puncher Miguel Cotto sometime in November or December with New York as venue.

Arum, grinning from ear-to-ear after Pacquiao’s sensational demolition of Ricky Hatton, said during the post-fight press conference that everything would all depend on the outcome of Cotto’s June 12 fight with Joshua Clottey at Madison Square Garden in New York.

Arum said Pacquiao will be on hand at the Garden when Cotto faces Clottey since he will be attending the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) awards dinner on the eve of the fight.

The BWAA has named Pacquiao as its Fighter of the Year for 2008, while cornerman Freddie Roach will receive the Best Trainer award.

This marks the second time Pacquiao will receive the award having been named as Fighter of the Year in 2006.

If everything falls into place, Pacquiao and Cotto will duke it out at the Garden, where Cotto has sold it out a few times owing to the large Puerto Rican population there.

Cotto, 5-7 a right-hander, has rebounded strongly from his knockout loss to Antonio Margarito of Mexico last year and has since made his way back into the win column, stopping Michael Jennings of the UK in five rounds at the Garden last February.

The 28-year-old Cotto, who is also under the promotional banner of Top Rank like Pacquiao, has a 33-1 card with 27 knockouts.

Source: http://mb.com.ph/articles/204728/cotto-next-pacquiao-arum

Ricky Hatton v Manny Pacquiao: How the fight unfolded

2009-05-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton v Manny Pacquiao for the IBO and The Ring light-welterweight titles

Round One
Hatton starts well for the first 30 seconds, stays outside, moving well (and keeping to the game plan) as Pacquiao appears to start slowly. Then Pacquiao launches an assault catching Hatton flush with a straight left hand. Then a right hook. Then he launches an all-out assault, twice sending Hatton to the canvas. The final minute of the round is torrid for the Mancunian, a rapid right hook as Pacquiao moved to his left catching Hatton on the chin sending him to the canvas. Hatton takes the count from referee Kenny Bayliss on one knee, rises, but is soon in trouble again, as a straight left floors him in front of his corner.
10-7 Pacquiao

Round Two
Hatton looks composed, remarkably, at the start of the second stanza, beginning it with some success, knocking Pacquiao back, but is then warned by Bayliss not to hold and hit. Hatton lands with a left hook, and looks to be getting back into the contest but as the round ends Pacquiao enacts a punch of clinical brutality, felling Hatton flat onto his back, crumpling under a left hook which leaves him glazed and motionless. Hatton looked out before he landed on his back on the ground.

"I did not count," said Bayliss. "I called the fight over because Ricky was glazed in his eyes and was showing no motion to get back up." Promoter Bob Arum says immediately at ringside that Pacquiao can "go on to become the greatest pound for pound fighter of all time". Hatton is on the canvas motionless for three minutes, and walks out of the arena. He is immediately taken to hospital "on precautionary grounds".

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxingandmma/5266578/Ricky-Hatton-v-Manny-Pacquiao-How-the-fight-unfolded.html

BOXING PROMOTER ARUM CHALLENGES MAYWEATHER

2009-05-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS: If Manny Pacquiao works fast, so does his promoter—that is, in lining up the next fight for the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

Promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank Promotions announced at the post-fight press conference Sunday that he wants to match Pacquiao with former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr., Miguel Cotto or lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez.

But Mayweather came out of a 17-month retirement also on Sunday to announce that he would be fighting Marquez on July 18 at the MGM Grand, the venue of Sunday’s showdown. (See related stories on front page and A8)

“Floyd Mayweather Jr., if you want a piece of my little Filipino, be my guest,” Arum said.

Pacquiao earlier told a small group of Filipino journalists that he wants to fight the man he replaced at the top of pound-for-pound totempole.

“I like to fight him. I can fight anybody,” said Pacquiao, who knocked out Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton of Britain in round two of the so-called fight of the year.

“Manny is unbelievable. He’s the best fighter in the world,” said Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach. “He is in his prime right now. Anyone in the world, he could beat them all.”

Former undisputed welterweight champion Mayweather put himself atop that list a few hours earlier by announcing the end of his retirement.

Mayweather abdicated the pound-to-pound throne that Pacquiao has claimed in 2007 by winning four fights in a row in as many weight classes, but the International Boxing Organization’s new junior welterweight champion likes his current size.

Announcement at high noon

Mayweather’s return was announced at a noontime press conference at the Hollywood Theatre at MGM Grand.

“I’m back, and I’m here to stay as pound-for-pound king of the world,” Mayweather said during a press conference.

He added that he was willing to fight all the big names, including Pacquiao.

In a separate interview, Marquez said through an interpreter that he was also raring for a third fight with the Filipino icon anytime.

“I think Pacquiao is scared of me, because he knows I beat him,” said Marquez, who has won two consecutive knockout wins at lightweight since losing his junior lightweight title by split decision in March 2008.

In his first match with Pacquaio in 2004, Marquez was knocked down three times in the first round but rallied furiously to retain his super featherweight title in a controversial draw that many thought was won by the Filipino southpaw.

Oscar de la Hoya, president of Golden Boy Promotions, which is co-promoting Mayweather-Marquez with Mayweather’s promotional outfit, said the winner of the two biggest events of the year would logically fight each other in a super fight to decide the best.

Just noises

Roach downplayed Mayweather’s desire to fight Pacquiao, saying the former pound-for-pound champion was only making a “lot of noises.”

“I don’t think Mayweather really wants to fight Manny,” Roach said. “He’s scared of my man, and I doubt if he would like to fight him after this [Pacquiao’s decisive win over Hatton].”

US veteran Shane Mosley and Puerto Rico’s Cotto, two fighters who have tried in vain to make a deal to fight Mayweather, were mentioned by Roach as possible next foes for Pacquiao.

Asked to predict how Pacquiao-Mayweather would end, Roach said he expected the fight to go the distance.

“We win on points,” Roach said. “He doesn’t like to engage. He’s going to run from us.”

Roach also made it clear they would not make the leap for a chance to fight Mayweather at his prime weight if he would not step down to face Pacquiao at 140.

“At the right weight? No problem. At 147? Forget it,” Roach said. “Why? Manny doesn’t need it. Manny’s best weight is 140. He should take some time off and make a good decision. He needs some time off.”

Pacquiao promoter Arum said no decision about who Pacquiao faces next would be made until after Cotto’s next fight in July, just one week ahead of Mayweather’s return to the ring.

One person who thinks Pacquiao-Mayweather will happen sooner rather than later is Mayweather’s estranged father and Hatton’s trainer, Floyd Mayweather Sr. He doubted there would be much talk about his son fighting Pacquiao.

“They probably aren’t going to be talking about it a long time,” he said. “They are probably going to be doing it.”

Source: http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2009/may/04/yehey/top_stories/20090504top2.html

Hatton Almost Wins In Las Vegas!

2009-05-03T16:36:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton did himself and his vast army of travelling fans proud here in Las Vegas in the early hours, when the Manchester-based boxer came to within a hairs-breadth of beating Manny Pacquiao in their light-welterweight championship bout at the MGM Grand.

The pre-fight hype had placed Hatton as the underdog, but he made a mockery of that, as he came storming out of his corner in the first round, landing shots left, right and centre - a couple of which connected - before taking a couple on the chin himself.

Spurred-on by 25,000 adoring fans from Manchester who had defied the economic downturn and raided their piggy banks to come and offer him their undying vocal support, Hatton took a breather to regain his strength during the first round, before coming out in the same attacking frame of mind in the second.

He lasted a huge 2 minutes and 59 seconds of that round before finally running out of steam, and was knocked into the middle of the week-after-next by the Filipino, who hadn't even bothered to remove his dressing-gown, so confident was he.

The defeat could mark the end for Hatton, who is only 30, but many fans told us that they wanted him to carry on, and that this wasn't the end of Ricky Hatton.

One staunch admirer, Barry Madd, from Chorlton-cum-Hardy, said:

"Wot a waste o' money! All this way f' 6 minutes! Jeeeezus Christ!"

Source: http://www.thespoof.com/news/spoof.cfm?headline=s6i52460

Pacquiao stuns Hatton with second-round KO

2009-05-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao turned in perhaps the most dominating performance of his career Saturday night, knocking Ricky Hatton down twice in the first round before finally stopping him with a ferocious left hand in the final seconds of the second round.

Pacquiao showed why he is considered the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world with a stunning knockout that left Hatton lying motionless on his back in the middle of the ring.

Hatton had lost only once in his career, but he was no match for Pacquiao, who knocked him down midway through the first round and again towards the end of the round.

Hatton regrouped and made it through most of the second round before a chopping left hand sent him sprawling at 2:59 of the second round.

Source: http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2009/05/03/ap6370382.html

Vegas Blow Out: Pac-Man KOs Hitman in Two

2009-05-03T16:33:00.000-07:00

I would like to remind everyone that there is nothing personal for this fight and we are just doing our job to give a good fight to the people and make them happy. -- Pacquiao

They call this the Battle of East and West. And our worlds will collide in the ring on Saturday night.. --Hatton

Manny Pacquaio wasted no time whatsoever as he landed hard straight shots early and then simply overwhelmed Ricky Hatton in the first round with two very punishing knock downs, the last coming at the end of the round (a dangerous time for a fighter to be hurt).

The second stanza started out with Ricky, his confidence badly shaken, resorting to roughhousing and manhandling. He was beginning to get back into the fight until Manny settled down and began landing hard lefts and rights from all angles until one backed up Ricky and served notice that the first round assault and battery would resume. Ricky, as is his wont, was unable to adjust to Manny’s all-out tenacious attack Then with just one second left in the round, Pac-Man caught Hitman with a fully leveraged left hook, and that was that as Ricky was unconscious before he hit the deck and remained so for several frightening minutes.

This was a scenario I did not expect. Though I did think Pac-Man would win, I expected some ebb and flow before Pac-Man would take control late in the fight. I did not expect the end to come in such a devastating and early fashion, particularly by a fighter moving up in weight.

With the loss, Hatton must seriously consider whether he wants to fight again. Knockouts like that can be career-enders for anyone and the way helooked on the canvas and walking back to his dressing room was worrisome to say the least.

Manny Pacquiao (now 49-3, with 37 KOs) continues to notch big names on his belt and continues to affirm the fact that he is the best P4P fighter in the world. Should Floyd Mayweather Jr. get by Juan Manuel Marquez in July (and I think he will), the right fight for both PBF and Pacquiao (and for the fans) would be against one another--and I already have a hunch as to who will win.

Source: http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=19676&more=1

TV ads ‘knock out’ Pacquiao fans

2009-05-03T16:32:00.000-07:00

MANILA -- Mang Henry, an air-con technician, threw in the towel while he waited for GMA-7 network to air the historic Manny Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton fight.

"I won't watch it on TV anymore. What time is it now? I already heard on radio that Pacquaio won," said Mang Henry in Filipino, declining to give the Philippine Daily Inquirer his last name.

Mang Henry said his excitement to watch the fight on TV waned after he waited for more than an hour for GMA-7 network to air the delayed telecast from Las Vegas, Nevada.

"Nawala ang thrill... Nakakainis [The thrill is gone. It's annoying]," Mang Henry said, adding that the string of commercials got on his nerves as well.

Instead of waiting for the fight, Mang Henry said he returned to work. He was not even keen on waiting for it to be aired on Sunday's evening telecast.

Oscar Dizon, an engineer, spent more than an hour in front of the TV anticipating the airing of the fight.

"Bakit ang tagal [Why is it taking too long]?" he asked.

His son, Raymund, had fallen asleep on the couch, while he waited for the telecast even if he had already seen the fight on pay-per-view earlier in the day.

The younger Dizon simply wanted to see for a second time famed British boxer Ricky Hatton fall in the middle of the canvass, knocked out by Manny Pacquiao in the second round.

GMA-7, the official media partner of the Pacquiao-Hatton fight, finally aired the delayed telecast of the main event at 2:03 p.m., two hours after Pacquiao knocked out his opponent.

It began with celebrity Martin Nievera singing the Philippine National anthem then immediately cut to a rundown of nearly 30 major and minor sponsors.

The telecast noticeably skipped Tom Jones singing "God Save the Queen," Britain's national anthem, and another singer's rendition of the United States anthem,"Star-Spangled Banner".

There were three commercial gaps before the telecast showed Pacquaio enter the arena.

Some gaps were as long as eight minutes and a portion of the introductions to the match lasted for only a minute before another commercial break.

Even after Michael Buffer announced that the arena was "ready to rumble," GMA 7 cut the telecast for another round of commercials.

Finally, at 2:41 pm, thousands of Filipinos waiting at their TV sets got to see Pacquiao pounce on Hatton.

A source familiar with the commercials aired over the fight's telecast told the Inquirer that placements for the TV ads had been assumed for six rounds of the match.

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity as she was not authorized to discuss details of the ad placements, said that industry standards dictate that ads would still follow the original placement schedule even if the fight ended at round 2.

She said a likely solution was to replay the two rounds until the original placement schedule was met.

The Inquirer tried to call GMA-7 for its side but as of press time, had not yet received any word from the network.

Whether the fight was seen on delayed telecast, pay-per-view or at the malls, many Pacquiao supporters said it ended much too soon as they wanted to see more action from the Filipino champion -- now certifiably the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world.

Pasig City resident Roger Degollado was at the Robinson's Galleria cinema as early as 7:30 a.m. with his two sons to watch the fight.

Along with other fans, they endured a four-hour wait, watching an HBO documentary on Pacquaio and Hatton and the undercard matches before the main event finally went on screen.

"It was all over after a few minutes!" Degollado said, adding that the first round already had fans cheering Pacquiao wildly after his punches visibly disoriented Hatton.

It was a good thing, the Degollados said, they had complimentary tickets for the otherwise pricey match.

It was a sentiment, the said, shared by other fans who watched at the cinema.

"On our way out, we heard people say it was a good thing their tickets were from a major sponsor," said Degollado's son.

Source: http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/breakingnews/breakingnews/view/20090503-202834/TV-ads-knock-out-Pacquiao-fans

Pacquiao fans create record crowd at World Resort

2009-05-03T16:31:00.000-07:00

Despite an initial report of slow ticket sales, fans of Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao turned up in record numbers yesterday to watch his fight against United Kingdom's Ricky Hatton live via satellite at the Saipan World Resort.

Though a little bit disappointed because it ended quickly, the predominantly Filipino crowd brought the house down at the Taga Hall and Red Box Sports Bar when Pacquiao knocked out Hatton during the second round of their bout.

Mark Birmingham of MCV Broadband said it was the biggest ever crowd for them, exceeding the crowd that watched the Pacquiao-Oscar Dela Hoya match last October.

Pacquiao knocked out Hatton in the second round with a powerful left to the head that sent the English fighter to the canvass during their 140-lb title bout at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

MCV Broadband now expects a bigger crowd in the next Pacquiao fight, especially in the event of a deal with Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Mayweather was the undisputed pound-for-pound boxer before his retirement a few years back.

“We are happy. We need to increase the seats next time. We need a bigger venue,” said Birmingham.

Birmingham said they did not really expect people to come and watch but yesterday's tickets were sold out at the doors.

Gov. Benigno Fitial was one of those who watched at the Red Box Sports Bar.

Ronald Sanchez, Saipan World Resort's banquet and restaurant manager, said those who came to watch the fight exceeded the capacity for both the general admission and the VIP Room.

For businessman John Jones, the 3-1 odds for Pacquiao could actually have been 10-1.

“Pacquiao is such an amazing fighter. He's got real determination to win. He fights from his heart and soul,” Jones said.

Saipan long-time resident and court reporter Patricia A. Garshak said Hatton was no match for Pacquiao.

“Manny Pacquiao is a heart and soul fighter, just like the Latino fighters,” said Garshak, who is a native of Puerto Rico.

Hatton had too much expectations of himself but there was so much difference between the two fighters.

“There's no way Pacquiao could lose because, no matter what, he must win any fight. Latino fighters have the same motivation. They fight from their humble beginnings,” she said.

Jones said he closely watched the pre-fight viewing and learned a lot about the Filipino fighter.

“I like that part and the photos were very good,” Jones said.

MARPAC's Jojo Camacho said they are glad the fans came out and they are looking forward to the next Pacquiao fight.

Birmingham said Pacquiao is now the biggest boxer in the United States.

“Pacquiao keeps getting better and better,” said James Matsumoto of Wells Fargo.

“I'm just a fan but I like the way he takes care of his fights. There's no doubt that he's the best in the world now. He keeps on listening and concentrates on training,” Matsumoto said.

He said that unlike others who begin to lose control when they reach the top, Pacquiao is the opposite.

Matsumoto said Pacquiao won not only because of his speed but also because he is more powerful this time.

“I think the key for the win is that he's a humble fighter,” he said.

Mike Cruz of the Fil-Taga Golf Association joked that the fight was “not worth it.”

“I paid more and watched less,” he grinned.

He said he had predicted that the fight will last seven rounds and that the two fighters will get tired first before Pacquiao achieves victory.

Source: http://www.saipantribune.com/newsstory.aspx?newsID=89940&cat=1

Pacquiao's Hatton hammer blow leaves new champion sore

2009-05-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS (Reuters) - Manny Pacquiao admitted his hand was still feeling a little bruised two hours after a booming left hook knocked out Ricky Hatton in the second round of their eagerly awaited showdown on Saturday.

The Filipino challenger claimed the IBO light-welterweight title after sending Hatton sprawling to the canvas twice in the opening round before knocking him out cold with one second remaining in the next.

"I believe it was a very hard punch," Pacquiao told reporters after improving his career record to 49-3-2 with 37 knockouts. "My hand still hurts."

Hatton's assistant trainer Lee Beard said: "There was nothing Ricky could do. He got caught with a few good shots, he got back up and then obviously he got caught with that one big shot at the end."

Although Pacquiao was widely regarded as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, Hatton was believed to hold a size advantage at his natural weight of 140 pounds in a division where he had never previously lost.

However, Pacquiao always believed he would prove to be the stronger man.

"Before the fight, a lot of people think Ricky Hatton's bigger than me but I didn't put that in my mind," said the 30-year-old, who weighed only 106 pounds on his professional debut.

"I still believe that my body's bigger than Ricky. But with respect, he's still a good fighter."

Continue reading here: http://uk.reuters.com/article/UKNews1/idUKTRE5420O320090503

PACQUIAO WATCH: Manny in devastating KO win

2009-05-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

FILIPINO beakbuster Manny Pacquiao broke many Englishmen’s hearts by dealing their countryman his most devastating defeat with a spectacular second round knockout to wrest the Ring Magazine’s welterweight crown from the kid from Manchester Ricky Hatton.

The end came via a powerful left hook late in the second round which sent Hatton crashing into his back. Referee Kenny Bayless immediately waived his hands up in the air to end the fight.

Hatton lay motionless for several minutes, his eyes rolling over as his handlers tried to revive him.

Pacquiao was a favorite coming into the fight but many never expected the bout to end so soon.

The Filipino boxing sensation made it clear right in the first round that it would be a short and pitiful night for Hatton.

The man from Manchester tried to establish his rhythm by crowding Pacquiao at the opening bell and throwing his vaunted body punches but Manny deftly danced out of harm’s way and landed the first telling blow with a thundering right hook in the early going which untracked Hatton.

He would mix up his punches with left straights.

With barley 40 seconds left in the first canto, Manny uncorked a powerful right hook off a missed jab from Hatton.

It sent Hatton on all fours with his forehead touching the canvass.

Hatton rose at the count of eight but a worried face was splashed all over the television.

Manny chased him and Hatton tried to answer back.

But with 12 seconds left, a one-two combo attack capped by a signature left straight from Manny sent Hatton crashing down into his own corner with just the lower rung of the ring preventing his head from touching the canvass.

Referee Bayless again gave Hatton the mandatory eight count and the two trade punches when the bell sounded for the first round.

Ricky Hatton was still visibly hurting during the break as he kept nodding to the advices from his corner men.

He was again in his element at the beginning of the second round and tried to lure Manny into a phone booth brawl.

But it was not meant to be. Manny wisely hugged Hatton while covering his face with his left hand.

Then the climactic ending came.

A right jab set up Hatton for a left straight that looked like a hybrid of a left hook.

Hatton fell on the canvass with a big thud like the proverbial London Bridge.

With the win, Manny joined the rarefied circle of boxing greats who won world titles in at least five different weight categories.

Pacquiao, who started as a light flyweight, had captured world crowns in the flyweight, superbantamweight, super featherweight, lightweight in addition to the welterweight title he wrested from Hatton.

Top Rank promoter Bob Arum proclaimed Pacquiao as “the greatest fighter to have ever lived.”

That may be a little too early but with only a megafight with former world pound for pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr. looming in the horizon as a stumbling block to that accolade, Manny’s greatness as one of the most devastating punchers in modern times is now cemented and etched in the hallowed walls of Las Vegas, the Mecca of world class boxing.

Mayweather has signified his interest to fight the winner of the Pacquiao-Hatton bout.

That fight could come in the fall when Mayweather Jr. shall already have his tune up fight in the summer.

It was the first time I watched Manny’s fight live on cable outside of General Santos City.

In Cagayan de Oro City, virtually all villages in the heart of the city set up widescreen viewings – for free – for residents in their respective areas.

At the square center of Cogon public market four big television sets were already mounted as early as 6:00 in allowing marketgoers unhampered view from four sides.

Betting was heavy in favor of Pacquiao ending the fight as early as the third round.

When the first two knockdowns were registered against Hatton in the first round, audiences already saw the end coming just as long-time Pacquiao coach Freddie Roach correctly predicted.

The Englishman now knows what others have known before him.

That Manny’s speed is like no other and that while Manny may miss the bullseye on the dartboard inside Hatton’s pubhouse, his punches are as good as a ‘bulls out’ in a 501 game of darts.

That Hatton only lasted two rounds against Manny should sent a message across the boxing world that a new king has emerged in the world of boxing.

That his win over Oscar de la Hoya was by no means a fluke.

That Manny ably filled up the void left behind by de la Hoya who chose to retire after being handed out his most lopsided loss by the Filipino puncher-slugger turned into sweet-punching executioner.

The mantle has been passed and it fitted to a T with Manny’s recent decisively and clinical conquest of Hatton.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-24047.html

BREAKING: Boxer Hatton may quit after brutal knock out

2009-05-03T16:26:00.000-07:00

BOXER Ricky Hatton's career looked to be over today after he was brutally knocked out in the second round by Filipino Manny Pacquiao in Las Vegas.
For more sport updates keep visiting our web site and read The Star Monday to Saturday.

The Mancunian, who took 25,000 fans to watch him, was floored by a crushing left hook with one second remaining in the second round of their Light-welterweight world title fight.

Hatton, previously unbeaten in the 140 pounds division, was battered to the canvas twice in the first round before he was finally poleaxed at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Referee Kenny Bayless took one look at the prone boxer and immediately ended the fight as Hatton's corner rushed into the ring to attend to their fighter. There was immediate concern for the fighter's health.

Fiancee Jennifer Dooley, watching from ringside, screamed out when he took the punch. His worried family, devoted supporters, and millions of fight fans watching on TV looked on in horror as Hatton appeared to struggle to regain consciousness.

He was on his back, on the canvas, for at least three minutes before he was helped onto a stool brought into the middle of the ring.

Hatton was well enough to walk unaided from the ring, back to his dressing room, albeit minus his IBO and Ring Magazine light-welterweight title belts. But there were no interviews with him as he was taken for a hospital check up.

Depending on his health, he is expected to hold a press conference and answer questions about his future later today.

Pacquiao, who went to his corner to mutter a prayer after the shot, was clearly thinking of Hatton as he gave his post-fight interview with medical treatment still being given to the defeated man.

"I'm always doing my job in the ring, doing my best to make people happy. It's nothing personal for me, I'm just doing my job,'' he said.

Pacquiao, who had been escorted into the ring by WWE wrestling champ Batista, launched wild celebrations among his devoted fans – who would now like to se him battle Floyd Mayweather Jr, who announced yesterday he was coming out of retirement.

Both have beaten Hatton and are arguably the best "pound for pound" fighters in the world today.

Asked whether he might want a shot at Floyd Mayweather Jr, Pacquiao said he would take on anyone.

He said: "I can fight anybody, it will depend on my promoters. I'm just a fighter, doing my job, training and keeping at 100%."

Hatton, whose record now stands at 45-2, had been all business as he entered the ring while Pacquiao, now 49-3-2 (37 KOs), walked into the arena with a big grin on his face before reaching his corner and kneeling to pray.

Pacquiao had plenty of reasons to smile after a first round in which he launched an all-out assault, twice sending the Englishman to the canvas.

Hatton had started brightly, landing his jab as promised but he was soon on the backfoot as the Filipino warmed to his task.

In a torrid final minute, a right hook caught Hatton on the chin and sent him to the deck. He took the majority of the count from referee Kenny Bayless on his knees before rising calmly to his feet but with 40 seconds left to the bell he was quickly in trouble again.

A straight left sent Hatton onto the floor in front of his corner and this time he rose he had the relief of hearing the bell.

Hatton again began the second round well and appeared to rock Pacquiao back on his heels early on but he would not have him in trouble again.

Pacquiao believes the Englishman did not know what had hit him as he unleashed his devastating trademark left hook.

Pacquiao claimed Hatton had played into his strategy by trying to avoid his left hook, only to discover that he has a very strong right as well.

* Ricky's brother Matthew Hatton stayed on course for his IBO welterweight title fight later this year when scored a unanimous points victory over Mexico's Ernesto Zepeda at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas. Hatton moved his professional record to 36-4-1 (13 KOs) by outpointing veteran Zepeda, who saw his record slip to 39-12-4 (34 KOs).

Earlier in the evening, Manchester featherweight Joe Murray continued his winning start to life in the paid ranks with a unanimous decision victory over Californian Missael Nunez.

The 2008 Olympian followed his successful pro debut on March 28 by winning all four rounds on the judges' scorecards.

Source: http://www.thestar.co.uk/sportheadlines/BREAKING-Boxer-Hatton-may-quit.5230459.jp

Hitman's fans stunned by knockout

2009-05-03T16:24:00.000-07:00

"There's only one Ricky Hatton," goes the British fighter's anthem.

But there needed to be two, three or four Ricky Hattons in the ring on Saturday night to cope with the phenomenal Filipino Manny Pacquiao.

Pacman, as he is known back home in the Philippines, gobbled up the Hitman with an awesome array of punches at dazzling speed, and a final fearsome left hook.

Hatton crashed to the canvas with a second to go in the second round, never looking likely to beat the count.

'Shocked and gutted'

The Mancunian hero was later taken to hospital for a precautionary check-up.

It was a stunning ending to the fight and shocked the 20,000 or so Hatton fans who had ignored the economic hard times to travel to Las Vegas to see their hero.

Rob Melbourne, from London, was in the arena with his girlfriend Katie Audsley and he said: "We're shocked and gutted. I can't believe it happened."

But he added: "Total respect to Manny Pacquiao, he totally outclassed him."

Katie said: "I'm still pleased we came all the way out here because the atmosphere was amazing."

Neither of them wanted to see Hatton forced into retirement after such a performance and Katie said: "He has to go out with a win. He mustn't go out like that."

Tim Marshall, an expat who lives in Tokyo, said he felt Hatton looked tense beforehand while Pacquiao looked "super-relaxed".

'Just too quick'

He said: "After he was knocked down twice in the first round it was just a question of when and not if he lost."

For him there is a silver lining. "My wife Lori is Filipino. She's stayed at home with the kids but she will be very happy.

"Pacquiao has done the Philippines proud. The whole place comes to a standstill when he's fighting and the fight was shown live on TV there with thousands in the street."

As for Hatton, Tim thinks he needs to think long and hard about whether he should continue in the fight game after such a devastating defeat.

Bal Johal and his friends Surjit Rai and Gee Punia, all from London, were in despair.

Bal said: "We came over for the Malignaggi fight but this time we are so disappointed. There was 100% effort on Ricky's part but Pacquiao was just too quick."

Would it ruin their weekend, I asked.

"No. This is the party capital of the world. We knew Ricky was the underdog and we are still determined to enjoy the weekend," said Bal.

While thousands of British fans went off to drown their sorrows in the bars and fleshpots of Sin City, their Filipino counterparts prepared to party into the night.

Joseph Palmes had travelled all the way from South Cotabato - the same province where Pacquiao hails from - just for the fight and he was overjoyed.

"Nobody beats Pacman. He is the strongest and the fastest," he beamed.

So who next for the mighty Pacman?

Floyd Mayweather, the only man to have previously beaten Hatton, looms large on the horizon after he announced earlier in the day he was coming out of retirement to fight Juan Manuel Marquez in July.

At the press conference after the fight, promoter Bob Arum said: "If Mayweather wants to pick on a little Filipino, just be my guest."

Pacquiao-Mayweather would be another monster fight and there is little doubting who most of Ricky Hatton's fans will be rooting for.

In victory Pacquiao was as charismatic and humble as Mayweather was arrogant and insensitive.

Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/8031286.stm

Pacquiao the Destroyer Rules Ring

2009-05-03T16:22:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS -- At the end of the day, it wasn't that Floyd Mayweather Jr. failed to do what it appeared he'd done earlier Saturday, which was steal the thunder from the first big pay-per-view boxing event of the year by announcing his much-rumored return to the ring from a 17-month respite. Mayweather's Saturday afternoon press conference did, indeed, overshadow the junior-welterweight championship bout scheduled Saturday night between Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton.

But something transpired Saturday evening that even Mayweather couldn't have anticipated. Pacquiao snatched back everyone's attention, stealing back his own thunder, with a second-round knockout of Hatton that was so devastating it left some observers temporarily in fear for Hatton's well-being. It was nothing sort of Tyson-esque

Pacquiao landed a perfect left hook on Hatton's chin just before the bell sounded. It turned off Hatton's senses and left him lying on his back as if about to be wheeled away on a gurney. It was several minutes before he was revived and brought to his feet. He was later whisked to a hospital for examination.

"I told Ricky don't get discouraged by this because there's nobody out there who can beat this little Filipino," Bob Arum boasted when it was all over. "Oscar De La Hoya on his best night couldn't beat Manny Pacquiao."

It wasn't just Pacquiao's final punch, however, that made everyone take notice. It was his utter domination of Hatton in the five minutes and 59 seconds that Hatton lasted with him between the ropes.

Hatton never had a chance. Hatton didn't even look like he belonged. He looked like the glorified club fighter some boxing lifers suggested he was all along.

Source: http://kevin-blackistone.fanhouse.com/2009/05/03/pacquiao-the-destroyer-sends-message/

Chunks of History

2009-05-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

For the third time in his career, Manny Pacquiao was involved in a fight which had a historical and linear world title belt on the line from Ring Magazine.

The first was in November 2003 when he beat Marco Antonio Barrera for the Ring Magazine featherweight world title. Last March 2008, when he beat Juan Manuel Maquez for the WBC superfeatherweight world title, he was also considered the world 130 lb. champion by the publication considered as Boxings bible because Pacquiao and Marquez were ranked by the Ring as the top two in the division.

Pacquiao took the Ring magazine junior welterweight title from Britain's Ricky The Hitman Hatton with an electrifying two round blitzkrieg that shocked most boxing pundits who were expecting a more competitive bout. Hatton walked into a right hook in the first round, got up and fell down again after a lightning barrage but was saved by the bell. In the second, like all recent Pacman opponents, Hatton could not see Pacquiao's left coming for his jaw.

This places Pacquiao in a lofty place in boxing history. The likes of Henry Armstrong and Bob Fitzimmons won undisputed titles in three different weights during the time when there was still only one world sanctioning body.

Incredibly, Pacquiao has fought in four weight categories in a span of fifteen months and won world titles in three of them.
Aside from the Ring magazine belts, he has also won four world titles from the major sanctioning bodies - the WBC flyweight, IBF superbantamweight, WBC superfeatherweight and WBC lightweight in his fourteen year professional career. He is also the first Asian boxer to be ranked number one best fighter pound per pound in the world.

Ring magazine as a publication started in 1922 and started their own championship policy in 2002.

The junior welterweight division lineage started in 1925 with James Herring as its first champion. Roberto Cruz was the first Filipino to win the world junior welterweight championship when he knocked out Battling Torres of Mexico in a single round in a bout held in Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles in 1963 when the original WBA was the lone boxing sanctioning body.

The title was split when the WBC was created and Pedro Adigue of the Philippines became the first WBC jr.welterweight titlist in 1968 when he beat Adolf Pruitt of the U.S. by 15 round decision in a bout held at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City. The WBA continued to recognize Nicolino Locche as its champion then he lost to Peppermint Frazier in 1972. The titles remained split since as the IBF emerged during the mid-1980s. The WBO started in 1988 while the IBO, whose belt Hatton also held, started during the late eighties and evolved as an organization during the early 1990's.

Other Filipinos who won titles at 140 pounds include Morris East (WBA 1992).

Kotsya Tszyu finally unified the titles again when he beat Miguel Angel Gonzales for the WBC belt in 1999, Sharmba Mitchell for the WBA title in 2000 and Zab Judah for the IBF belt in 2001.

When Tzsyu lost to Ricky Hatton by 11th round TKO in 2005, the linear title was passed on to the British fighter. Titles are won and lost inside the ring after all thus Pacquiao can lay claim to the lineage. Pacquiao has now distinguished himself in six weight divisions. Not bad for a guy who started at light flyweight.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-24043.html

Pacman packs punch at any weight

2009-05-03T16:17:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS - Manny Pacquiao really does pack a punch, as he proved again with three knockdowns and ultimately a knockout of Ricky Hatton on Saturday in capturing the Ring magazine and IBO junior welterweight titles.

"This win was as big as my last fight against Oscar De La Hoya," Pacquiao said.

Already considered by many boxing's best fighter, Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs) silenced skeptics with an early power supply of concussive bombs against the normally iron-chinned Hatton (45-2, 32 KOs) before more than 17,000 screaming fans at the MGM Grand.

Many doubted the Filipino southpaw had the ability to carry his power to the junior welterweight division, though he was coming off a technical knockout win over De La Hoya in December.

Hatton and his trainer, Floyd Mayweather, were convinced Pacquiao was too small.

"I really thought Ricky could get him," Mayweather said.

Pacquiao worked for two months preparing for the move to the junior welterweight division. He already had world titles in the flyweight, junior featherweight, junior lightweight, and lightweight divisions. Now he has junior welterweight titles, too.

In the first round Hatton moved in aggressively against Pacquiao and immediately worked the inside. Both traded punches, with the Englishman landing frequently in the first 40 seconds until Pacquiao countered with a left hand. Suddenly, as Hatton lunged in, a Pacquiao right hook to the chin dropped him to his knees.

Hatton got up shakily but beat the count. With less than 30 seconds left in the round, a left hand dropped Hatton again near his own corner. He beat the count and the round ended.

Hatton jumped out of his corner for the second round and immediately attacked Pacquiao. A right uppercut landed, but Pacquiao countered with some combinations. The lefty brushed Hatton's face with a right jab, then loaded up an overhand left on Hatton's chin. Down he went with a thud and he did not get up for more than a minute.

Referee Kenny Bayless did not bother to count and stopped the fight at 2:59 of the second round.

"We worked hard on the right hook," Pacquiao said. "We knew he was looking for the left hand."

Freddie Roach, who's trained Pacquiao for eight years, had predicted his fighter would win in less than three rounds. He finally revealed his reason.

"Every time he throws a punch he cocks it," Roach said. "We were ready."

Though Pacquiao was confident of his plan, even he was "surprised it came so easy."

"But we worked on it very hard," he said. "This wasn't personal, it was business."

Hatton was taken to the hospital after the fight.

"It was a hard shot but I'm OK," Hatton said. "I really didn't see the punch coming. It was a great shot."

Other Bouts

WBC junior lightweight champion Humberto Soto caught Daniel Gaudet with a right uppercut that proved the beginning of the Canadian fighter's end.

He survived the count but was met with a jab and right cross that sent him reeling along the ropes and to the canvas. Referee Jay Nady stopped the fight at 2:25 of the ninth round.

In a middleweight bout, Daniel Jacobs (16-0, 14 KOs) found Michael Walker (20-2, 12 KOs) no easy foe, winning an eight-round decision. Jacobs was taller but could not muster enough power to discourage Walker.

Source: http://www.pe.com/sports/breakout/stories/PE_Sports_Local_S_vegas_fight_03.4635b12.html

Pacquiao-Hatton: Lance Pugmire's round-by-round observations

2009-05-03T16:05:00.000-07:00

With a sellout MGM Grand Garden crowd of 16,262 -- including Jack Nicholson, Jay-Z, Adam Sandler, Mark Wahlberg, Denzel Washington and P. Diddy -- watching after paying a combined $8.8 million, the British throng supporting Ricky Hatton roared and sang support to their countryman as Tom Jones sang "God Save the Queen." Pacquiao was greeted less vocally by fewer fans waving Philippines flags, but his wife saluted him as their anthem played, clasping her hands together and looking upward. News from dressing rooms reveals Pacquiao weighs 148 pounds and Hatton is at 152, making the Brit the largest fighter the Filipino has ever battled.

ROUND 1
What happened: Pacquiao, seeking a historic triumph that would give him a record fourth lineal division championship -- being the man who beat the successor to the last unified champion -- and tie Oscar De La Hoya's record six division titles, scored two knockdowns in the first round after withstanding early charges from Hatton.

In the first minutes, Hatton tried to hold Pacquiao with his left arm and pound him with his right. Pacquiao, however, came well prepared for Hatton's right hook, trainer Freddie Roach said in the ring afterward, and soon began scoring. Back-to-back lefts struck Hatton, a strong right hook followed, and then came a big combination. Pacquiao landed a right jab, then unleashed the fight's master plan.

Roach said he studied Hatton fight tapes for two months and found that Hatton "pumps his hands before he punches. . . . I studied every tape. I know him like I know my own fighter. . . . He's a sucker for the right hook." Sure enough, Hatton was floored in the final minute of the round by a Pacquiao right hook that struck the Brit "right on the button" as one ringside observer said. Seconds later, Pacquiao sized up his foe and delivered a straight left that sent Hatton down near the corner turnbuckle where his December 2007 knockout loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr. ended. Hatton got up in the final second and received a brief minute-long respite

Pugmire's take: Like Roach predicted early on when he called for a third-round KO, it was clear Hatton came into the ring with no effective game plan against the assault that boxing's best fighter brought. Pacquiao's punching speed and fury so belies his easiness and polite demeanor outside the ring. He proved himself again a brilliant tactician and powerful puncher at his very peak.

The judges: Michael Pernick, 10-7; C.J. Ros, 10-7; Glenn Trowbridge, 10-7.

ROUND 2

What happened: A quick end. Hatton showed early life in the round, barging toward Pacquiao. You could see Hatton turning to the emergency plan: turn this into a street fight. Pacquiao would have none of it, backing away, ducking a punch and hammering Hatton. He then shot two double left hooks at Hatton.

Hatton tried again to hold and hit, but referee Kenny Bayless told him to stop. Pacquiao goes back to work with a jab-jag-left, then threw a scoring left.

Pacquiao glanced at the celebrities in the crowd and raised his eyebrows, the way he does when he's showing off at his home base, Hollywood's Wild Card gym. He hit Hatton with a right to the body.

Then the end. Hatton was standing upward and Pacquiao unleashed a big left hook that stands as the most impressive blow in a big fight in years. Hatton crashed to the canvas, out cold, as Bayless waved quickly for medical assistance. The ref never even counted to one. "He could've counted to 100," a ringside observer said. The knockout came with one second left in the round.

Pugmire's take: Hours earlier, when Mayweather announced he was returning from retirement to take on Juan Manuel Marquez in July, he made a point of saying he'd be bowling with his daughter during the Pacquiao fight and cautioned reporters to "not get all crazy" if Pacquiao wins because Mayweather had been the first to knock out Hatton, in the 10th round, in December 2007.

The fact that Pacquiao needed eight fewer rounds, and beat the Brit with a punch that was far more devastating than Mayweather's own impressive final blow, ensures that Pacquiao indeed stands as the best in the world and sets up boxing's next Super Bowl: Pacquiao-Mayweather.

Source: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-boxing-roundbyround3-2009may03,0,1607623.story

Pacquiao Dominates Hatton, Captures 6th World Title

2009-05-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS, NV – MANNY Pacquiao showed everyone why he is the pound-for-pound best boxer in the world.

In front of a sold out crowd at the MGM Grand Garden Arena Saturday night, Pacquiao made quick work of Ricky Hatton, the 140-pound IBF Light Welterweight Champion. Pacquiao knocked the British champion down twice in the first round before finishing him off in the second.

“I mean I am surprised that it was that easy, but the fighter [Hatton] fights hard,” said Pacquiao after the fight. “Our strategy was the one punch. Left hook. Right hook. That was going to be the key to this fight.”

Pacquiao executed the game plan with perfection.

In the first round, Hatton started aggressively. He charged Pacquiao, clinched and threw short body blows. However, Pacquiao answered back. Pacquiao gained some distance and threw a quick left hook to the head that stunned the British champion.

He landed a few more combinations before knocking down the British fighter with a right hook to the chin midway through the first round. With the Filipino crowd on its feet, British fans were in disbelief.

Pacquiao pounced on Hatton again a few moments later. This time, Pacquiao landed a left hook to the head of Hatton, immediately felling the Englishman.

Pacquiao finished off Hatton in the subsequent round. Pacquiao landed a left hook on the chin and below Hatton’s earlobe, a textbook knockout punch. Hatton was immediately out before he fell to the canvas.

The referee immediately waved the fight over at 2:59 in round two.

“I was just doing my job in the ring and doing my best to make the people happy,” said Pacquiao. “Nothing personal, I am just doing my job. I am satisfied. I am always trying my best in the ring and make a good impression on the people.”

Hatton was not made available for comment. Hatton was rushed to the hospital for precautionary measures.

Before the match, Roach predicted a Pacquiao knockout in three, he’ll settle for two.

“Manny is unbelievable,” said Roach at the press conference. “I’m the best trainer in the world because I have the best fighter in the world.”

Roach said that Hatton was very predictable. Coming into the fight, Roach saw a tell in Hatton’s style.

“Every time he throws the left hook and cocks it, he is wide open for the right hook from the southpaw stance,” Roach explained. “We worked on that every day in the gym and it just worked beautifully.”

I knew it was over,” added Roach. “Ricky fights the same way over and over. He doesn’t have the ability to adjust. I watched the tapes over and over the last few months. I know him as well as I know my fighters.”

The win catapults Pacquiao in the boxing history books. Pacquiao becomes the first Asian to capture six world titles in six different weight division - flyweight, junior featherweight, featherweight, junior lightweight, lightweight and now, junior welterweight.

Who’s Next?

The morning of the Hatton vs. Pacquiao fight, former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr. announced he would come back to the boxing ring. Mayweather Jr. is set to face Juan Manuel Marquez in Las Vegas on July 18.

The winner may possibly be Pacquiao’s next opponent.

Roach said that they are willing to fight anybody – Sugar Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, and Mayweather Jr.

Many fans are expecting Mayweather jr. to face off against Pacquiao.

Top Rank President Bob Arum said of the possible future matches, bring it on.

“If Mayweather jr. wants a piece of this little Filipino, just be my guest,” said Arum.

Source: http://www.asianjournal.com/dateline-usa/15-dateline-usa/1787-pacquiao-dominates-hatton-captures-6th-world-title.html

There is only ONE Manny Pacquiao

2009-05-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

He lost his 12th professional fight by third round knock-out in his homeland of the Philippines.

Thirteen fights later, rebounding, he captured his first world title as a flyweight via 8th round knock-out against Chatchai Sasakul in Thailand.

In his second defense of the belt, at twenty-years of age, Medgoen Singsurat knocked him out in the third round.

Seven wins later, the young fighter caught the eyes of American fight fans for the first time on the under card of Oscar De La Hoya's bout with Javier Castillejo, as he stopped Lehlohonolo Ledwaba in six rounds to capture a super bantamweight title.

In his next fight, I saw him for the first time in a tough technical draw against the now deceased Dominican tough man Agapito Sanchez. The fight was stopped due to a cut that was produced near his eye by a headbutt in the second round...I was not impressed.

On July 26, 2003, he made me wrong for the first of many times. Going into a fight against then undefeated Emannuel Lucero, I picked against him. He knocked out Lucero for a victory.

His next fight, he did the impossible, ruined my birthday and knocked out the then seemingly untouchable featherweight kingpin (and my favorite boxer, of the time) Marco Antonio Barrera. Now title changed hands, but he was the best featherweight in the world.

Immediately after testing Barrera, he jumped in with an unsung Mexican pugilist by the name of Juan Manuel Marquez and quickly dumped the master boxer three times in the first round en route to a memorable draw.

The following year, Tijuana toughman Erik Morales took a spirited decision from him. Some who thought he was over-rated, felt the end was near for the rising star.

To his credit, he then went and beat Morales, decisively by knock-out two times and captured another world title, now at super featherweight.

But the doubters kept asking what about him giving Barrera and Marquez another opportunity, surely, lightening could not strike twice?

It did, he defeated Barrera and Marquez, again, in that order

To make his legend grow even larger and his countrymen adore him even more, he captured a lightweight title against David Diaz by stoppage in the 9th.

Lightweight was not enough, as he then faced the man who all of boxing wanted to fight at the time, for the money, but he made it about the glory, Oscar De La Hoya.

I predicted the larger De La Hoya would brutalize him, and make him do a "chicken dance" after a receiving a left-hook to the head; I was wrong.

This small man from humble beginnings, who carried the hopes of a nation of his shoulder, and who was physically much smaller than the bigger De La Hoya, but who has a larger heart, made "The Golden Boy" quit on his stool.

Had he accomplished enough? No, there were still doubters.

He beat an older De La Hoya, he needs to fight a larger man with a pulse, many fans and experts argued.

In came Ricky Hatton, the true "king" of the junior welterweights.

Guess what? Tonight in Las Vegas, Nevada, before thousands of Ricky Hatton's fans and countrymen, he knocked out the Brit in two rounds.

There is only one him.

There is only one Manny Pacquiao.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-2850-LA-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m5d2-There-is-only-ONE-Manny-Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao's fists are loaded, and his bouts are a lock

2009-05-03T15:58:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao can no longer be identified as a boxer. Lethal weapon, maybe. Or destroyer missile. Whatever the definition, he is unquestionably the sport's top gun.

What he did to Ricky Hatton on Saturday night, in a boxing ring at the MGM Grand Garden, before a crowd of 16,262 and millions more all over the world watching on pay-per-view, was mostly mayhem. The man from Manchester was manhandled.

British fans who swoop down on this city every time Hatton fights -- which is three times since December 2007 -- serenaded him into the ring as usual, with the now-annoying version of "Winter Wonderland" that begins: "There's only one Ricky Hatton."

They were right. He was the only one who ended up on his back in the middle of the ring.

The fight summary is one paragraph. Pacquiao knocked Hatton down twice in the first round, dominated the second and caught Hatton with a vicious left hook as the round ticked down. Hatton's eyes rolled back and his body fell, like a sack of potatoes, flat on his back. Referee Kenny Bayless knelt over him for several seconds, then waved his hands, with one second left in the round, to signify that the fight was over.

The aftermath was a bit scary. Hatton didn't move right away, and soon there were many people with concerned looks on their faces, kneeling and hovering. Hatton may have been on his back longer than he was on his feet during the fight.

Eventually, they brought his stool to the middle of the ring and got him on it, and a few minutes later he left the ring under his own power, waving feebly to a crowd of Brit fans who may have been driven to drink by the result. Of course, any result would have driven them to drink.

Pacquiao, the Filipino powerhouse whose record went to 49-3-2 (with 37 knockouts), weighed in Friday at 138 pounds and went to 148 by fight time. Hatton, now 45-2-0 (with 32 knockouts), weighed in at the limit of 140 and gained 12 pounds by fight time.

A measure of how dominant Pacquiao has become is that this victory marked his fourth different weight-class win in the last 14 months. His previous conquest, of boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya at 147 pounds, sent De La Hoya into retirement. Hatton is only 30, two months older than Pacquiao, but may be pondering a similar path. The pubs of Manchester are a lot safer than Pacquiao's left hand.

Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, now the pound-for-pound best corner man in his sport, pretty much called the shot again, just as he had against De La Hoya on Dec. 6. He said Pacquiao would knock Hatton out in the third round. Pacquiao apparently had earlier dinner reservations.

"This fight was no surprise to me," Roach said.

The star trainer always seems to have a secret strategy, and he revealed afterward that, for this one, he had watched hours of film of Hatton -- "I knew him better than my own fighter," he said -- and realized that Hatton was wide open for the right hook.

"Hatton pumps his fist before he throws," Roach said. "We also knew he'd be looking for the left," Pacquiao's main weapon.

The first knockdown in the first round came via a right, the second with a left. Hatton had actually survived somewhat better in the second, despite Pacquiao's quickly evident superior hand speed, foot speed and punching power. But the left that finished him started at about 7 o'clock, landed on Hatton's face at about 12 noon and made the likely obvious result official.

Hatton didn't attend the post-match news conference, because he was taken to Valley Hospital. Before he left, he said, "It was a hard lot, but I'm OK. I really didn't see the punch coming, but it was a good shot."

Pacquiao, ever the diplomat, said, "I'm surprised the fight was so easy. I worked hard in training camp and he was open for the right all night. It was nothing personal. I was just doing my job."

Bob Arum, whose Top Rank Promotions handles Pacquiao, called his boxer "a monster" afterward, and started making noises about Pacquiao's becoming boxing's "all-time great."

Two things to consider there. As a promoter, Arum is wired for hyperbole. But also, he is no newcomer to this and began his career promoting no less than Muhammad Ali.

The only thing that might stop Pacquiao now is his desire to become a prominent government official someday soon in his beloved Philippines. There is even talk of the presidency someday.

Were that to happen now, it would make Pacquiao the answer to the trivia question: Which country has a president even more popular than Barack Obama?

For Hatton, a nice guy and tough competitor who is also beloved in his country, there may not be a lot of return trips upcoming.

Which, of course, will send the beer distributors of Las Vegas into deep depression.

Source: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-dwyre-pacquiao-hatton3-2009may03,0,7932325.column

So easy for Pac Man

2009-05-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao admitted even he was surprised by the ease of his win over Ricky Hatton.

The Filipino knocked his man out cold after 2.59 of the second round in the Las Vegas showdown to determined who was the best pound-for-pound fighter on the planet.

Click here for full fight report

There is now absolutely no doubt following a whirlwind fight which saw Hatton floored twice in the opening round before being chillingly knocked out with a vicious left hook at the end of the next session.

"I was surprised that this was so easy but I've worked hard in training camp since the beginning of March," said Pacquiao.

"He was wide open for the right hook. I knew he would be looking for my left.

"It's nothing personal. I was just doing my job. This is as big for me as the De La Hoya win."
Sucker

The victory was also a personal triumph for trainer Freddie Roach.

The Wild Card supremo predicted his man would blitz Hatton in three rounds and even though he changed his mind closer to the fight, was proved right.

And it meant he emerged victorious from his feud with Floyd Mayweather Snr in the opposite corner and like Pacquiao, now stands alone at the top of his profession.

"This was no surprise," he said.

"Hatton pumps his hands before he throws a punch. He is a sucker for the right hook and this is what we worked on.

"He cocks back before he throws his punches. He fights the same way over and over.

"I studied tapes of all his fights for the last two months and I know him as well as I know my own fighter."

Source: http://www.skysports.com/hatton/story/0,25890,13303_5272860,00.html

Pacquiao Aims for Four (and Six): Real History - Thoughts

2009-04-30T16:45:00.000-07:00

The old timers are right of course.

They look around at the fighters in recent times collecting belts in an assortment of weight classes and say, “It’s not the same as it used to be.”

While the idea that titles were once always undisputed is flawed, the term “World Champion” still meant one guy more often than not prior to the 1960s and into today. In our time, stats and belt accumulation are easier to amass and manipulate. There are more belts lying around in every weight class, meaning that star fighters can be selective in their choices as they venture up the scale.

They can occasionally cherry pick (see: dictionary definition with picture of Sugar Ray Leonard-Donny LaLonde fight poster corresponding).

Upon his retirement, there were headlines proclaiming Oscar De La Hoya a ‘ten-time’ champion, and grey hairs the boxing world over could be seen shaking.

For Sugar Ray Robinson to be a five-time Middleweight champion, he had to lose (or vacate) the title on four occasions. Then he had to regain it, from a Hall of Famer no less, every time. For De La Hoya to be proclaimed a ‘two-time’ Lightweight champion is just basic arithmetic without context or thought. He picked up a vacant belt against a blown up Jorge Paez and then won a unification fight with Rafael Ruelas, sure, but he never lost one them to regain it.

It’s not the same.

Therefore, the really special occasions, the truly remarkable accomplishments, have to be pointed out vigilantly or risk being lost in a sea of less. This weekend, what Manny Pacquiao (48-3-2, 36 KO) will attempt to do in pursuing a lineal crown in a fourth weight division, a title in a sixth division overall, is one of those times.

Over the last two months, this corner has examined the title reigns of Manny Pacquiao ( http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=18886 ) as well as the men who have held title claims in four, five and six divisions, identifying their various title claims to understand where each fell short, including Pacquiao so far, of becoming the first man in the sport’s history to capture four lineal World titles. Those men are:

Four Division Claimants
Roberto Duran - http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19025
Pernell Whitaker - http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19117
Roy Jones Jr. & Leo Gamez - http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19243
Five Division Claimants
Sugar Ray Leonard - http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19317
Thomas Hearns - http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19427
Floyd Mayweather Jr. - http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19516
And the lone Six Division Claimant
Oscar De La Hoya – http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19638

Look closely at the list again. Eight names, seven easy first ballot Hall of Famers, and Leo Gamez was a pretty good fighter in his own right. Even without ‘lineage’ in their favor at each weight class, even with seventeen weight classes where once there were as few as eight, this is the quality it takes to hop around the scale picking up belts along the way.

Maybe it isn’t the same, but the caliber of prizefighter which makes up this class says something significant.

It says it sure as hell ain’t easy either.

What Pacquiao has done to date is already special no matter the outcome against World Jr. Welterweight champion Ricky Hatton (45-1, 32 KO). In staking a claim to three lineal World championships so far at Flyweight (112), Featherweight (126) and Jr. Lightweight (130), he went through the hardest roads available.

In winning the first two crowns (against Chatchai Sasakul and Marco Antonio Barrera), he defeated not only the champion established by historical lineage but also the consensus choices at the time for best fighter in the division when he met them. In winning the third crown, vacant prior to the bout, he had to get by the easy choice for ‘other’ top contender in class, Juan Manuel Marquez.

Winning titles in just four divisions, lineal or otherwise, has been a mountain too high for some outstanding practitioners of the sweet science.

England’s scrappy Duke McKenzie thrilled audiences throughout the 1980s, winning non-lineal titles at Flyweight, Bantamweight (118) and Jr. Featherweight (122). A trek to Featherweight in 1994 saw him broken down in nine by WBO titlist Steve Robinson, but he gave it a go.

Hall of Famer Alexis Arguello couldn’t do it. Strong lineal runs at Featherweight and Lightweight (135) were sandwiched around a WBA title reign at Jr. Lightweight which may have been the finest in run in the division’s history. The dream of four was stopped short in one of the greatest fights of all time, Arguello’s first clash with Aaron Pryor at Jr. Welterweight in 1982.

Hall of Famer Jeff Fenech, sans any lineal crowns, should have pulled it off from Bantamweight straight through to Jr. Lightweight but judges blinded by the hot Nevada sun ruled his 1991 thrashing of Azumah Nelson a draw. Mexico’s greatest of all time, Julio Cesar Chavez, ran off belts at 130, 135 and 140, making clear claims to the outright World title in the latter two but history eluded him too as Chavez needed big time judging help to muster a sport-embarrassing draw in chasing Pernell Whitaker for the Welterweight title in 1993.

Future Hall of Famers Erik Morales and James Toney missed for different reasons. Morales found his body worn down just enough to finish a round or so shy of pulling it off against David Diaz for a belt at 135 in 2007 after titles at 122, 26 and 30 over the previous decade. Toney accomplished the feat in the ring by decisioning John Ruiz in 2005 at Heavyweight, almost fourteen years after winning the lineal Middleweight crown and later adding titles at Super Middleweight and Cruiserweight.

Then Toney failed a urine test for performance enhancers. Hello “No Contest;” farewell divisional title number four.

The point of these trips down memory lane is simple. It illustrates the variables which go into accomplishment in sport. Timing, opportunity, the toughness of opposition, and the quality of officiating can all derail even the best of fighters.

Nowhere is that more the case than in the biggest historical names which are likely to can be used as comparison points should Pacquiao topple Hatton this weekend.

The first is the most obvious, bandied about freely since Pacquiao’s win over De La Hoya last December even if their circumstances are wildly different. Henry Armstrong (149-21-10, 101 KO) didn’t just win three lineal titles in three divisions; he held three of them at the same time. In a savvy move intended to move Armstrong out from under the shadow on the Heavyweight division, Armstrong defeated Petey Sarron to win the honors at Featherweight in October 1937, leapt all the way to Welterweight to knock off Barney Ross for the championship in May of the following year, and then three months later dropped to Lightweight to defeat Lou Ambers for a one-of-a-kind triple crown.

By all accounts, Armstrong earned another piece of history in March 1940 and this is where a stronger comparison can be drawn with Pacquiao. While not entirely undisputed, Ceferino Garcia probably held the strongest claim to the Middleweight title when he took the challenge of Armstrong. Armstrong had successfully defended the Welterweight title against Garcia in 1938 and over ten rounds appeared to outwork him again only to come up short with a draw.

Had he been given the verdict, Armstrong would have captured titles from limits of 126 to 160, a span of 34 pounds. Pacquiao is attempting this weekend to bridge 112 to 140, coming up a few pounds short at a span of 28.

Another name which hasn’t come up as often as Armstrong’s found the draw verdict preventing him from history on the front rather than the back end. Twice in 1927, Tony Canzoneri (144-24-10, 44 KO) faced off with future Hall of Famer Charles “Bud” Taylor for the vacant National Boxing Association (precursor to today’s WBA) crown at 118 lbs. Their first bout ended in a draw; the second with a decision loss for Canzoneri.

It turned out the great Canzoneri would find success elsewhere.

From 1928-36, Canzoneri would win and lose the titles at Featherweight, Lightweight and Jr. Welterweight, amassing one of the deepest resumes in the history of the sport. In many ways, Canzoneri’s career parallels Pacquiao’s more closely than forced comparisons to Armstrong.

In an era not allowing day before weigh-ins, Pacquiao may well have begun contesting for titles at 118 rather than 112, the same as Canzoneri.

Pacquiao moved from those small points on the scale to post a victory over the former Welterweight champion De La Hoya in the now retired Golden Boy’s final fight.

Canzoneri found a way to split two fights with great former Welterweight champion Jimmy McLarnin in McLarnin’s penultimate contests before a farewell win over win over Lightweight great Lou Ambers.

Had he won titles in more divisions, McLarnin’s journey up the scale would be a strong point of comparison here as well. And, okay, McLarnin had much more in the tank at his end then De La Hoya did. So it’s not the same.

It’s still healthy food for thought.

None of this analysis means a Pacquiao win automatically puts Pacquiao on a pedestal next to the Armstrong’s and Canzoneri’s of history. Those are debates for after the fight, and for all time, if it happens.

None of this even should be taken to mean Pacquiao is certain to succeed. Hatton will have a ton to say about it on Saturday night. He’ll come to win and if history has anything to say about it, the odds are in his favor to do so (or at least draw).

Have no doubt about it though.

This is one of the really special occasions, a moment when one of the men of our time will try for one of the truly remarkable accomplishments.

This is the chance for real history and Saturday can’t get here soon enough.

The Weekly Ledger

As always, there’s more:

Spinks-Latimore Coverage: http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19586
Froch and Lopez Shine: http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19619
Top 20 Jr. Flyweights: http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19656
Picks of the Week: http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19636

Cliff’s Notes…

All this and still no pick for Saturday’s fight? Tune in later this week for the pre-fight report card. Not that this has been a sterling year for picks from yours truly or anything…Seriously, when Cory Spinks is even getting in wars, you know Boxing is hot…The ticket sales for Wladimir Klitschko-David Haye are mind boggling. Imagine if the fight is actually good…Sucks that Jr. Welterweight titlist Timothy Bradley was stripped by the WBC but Junior Witter-Devon Alexander is an intriguing fight and Bradley pays one less fee. That’s a win-win right?...So is Mayweather-Marquez on or not? We should know by the weekend…Finally, Rest in Peace to former WBA Heavyweight beltholder Greg Page.

Cliff Rold is a member of the Ring Magazine Ratings Advisory Panel and the Boxing Writers Association of America. He can be reached at roldboxing@hotmail.com

Source: http://www.boxingscene.com/?m=show&id=19677

Bruce Lee Pacquiao Vs. Chuck Norris Hatton?

2009-04-30T16:44:00.000-07:00

Standing straight up Manny Pacquiao is about the size of the top of a Mercedes Benz sedan, not necessarily imposing when you’re talking about a fighter considered the best boxer pound for pound in the world. Like a Mercedes, he’s in the elite status, not just for this era, but also possibly for all time. Ricky Hatton has almost the same exact height and like his rival, many consider the Manchester native one of the finest prizefighters today pound for pound. On Saturday, Pacquiao (4-3-2, 36 KOs) of the Philippines and Hatton (45-1, 32 KOs) from England will battle for the latter’s Ring Magazine and IBO junior welterweight titles at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas. The fight will be televised on HBO pay-per-view and is co-sponsored by Tecate cerveza. Generally when speaking about the baddest fighter on the planet the subject conjures images of basketball sized boxers with muscles bulging and grimaces resembling a fugitive from the movie Twilight. Not so. If Pacquiao reminds of any past figure, the only person that comes to mind is Bruce Lee, the man who put martial arts on the map and whose legend continues though he’s been dead for 35 years. Pacman’s upcoming battle with Hatton can be equated to the epic battle shown on Way of the Dragon with Lee and Chuck Norris in the Coliseum in Rome: two iconoclastic warriors with different styles and prodigious fan bases. Bruce Lee had that same kind of blazing self-confidence that Pacquiao emotes. Though bragging and boasting was never part of the now deceased kung fu master’s persona, the world recognized his abilities and new twists on fighting techniques. Pacquiao doesn’t brag or boast either. Yet the world sees the lightning reflexes and ability to rise from a mere flyweight to welterweight and still fight bigger and stronger foes like a pure fighting machine. “I don’t want to say I’m better than him,” said Pacquiao humbly when asked to compare Hatton. “I train hard so that I can compete with him. We’ll see who wins.” It’s all very Bruce Lee-like. Every time Pacquiao steps in the ring you can bet that a flurry of blinding punches and too rapid to predict footwork will take place with the Filipino superstar. From fight to fight he improves rapidly and confidently. “I’m a better fighter now,” admits Pacquiao almost begrudgingly from his abilities six years ago.

The hard boiled look of Hatton has been chiseled on his face after more than 15 years in a boxing ring. Like most British people, not just fighters, he has that confidence built from more than 400 years of success that England enjoyed as ruler of a worldwide empire. Hatton realized he lacked certain skills needed to continue to the top of the heap like England realized that a strong navy was necessary to protect its empire back in the early 1600s. That’s why the “Hitman” chose Floyd Mayweather to bring his brand of defensive tactics and quick movements to the fold. After losing to Floyd Mayweather Jr. and nearly losing to Juan Lazcano the English pugilist decided to try another tact. “That Lazcano fight, after the Mayweather fight, I was just trying to steamroll him,” said Hatton. “I told myself, 'You’ve always had good boxing ability, but you know, you’re not using it any more. And that’s why I opted to go with Floyd Mayweather.” A polished Hatton expects to bring his enhanced skills along with an expected large vocal crowd of British subjects to the Las Vegas arena when he fights Asia’s greatest hero since Bruce Lee. Think Enter the Dragon part two and that’s what you can expect on Saturday. “I don’t’ see it being a tickling contest,” says Hatton. “He likes to fight just like me.” Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach has honed his fighter from a mostly attack dog mentality to a razor sharp boxer who uses subtleties and movements to create openings. “Hatton is very strong,” Pacquiao says without hesitation. “I do not predict fights.” One thing that can be predicted is a full house that will witness the rise and fall of one fighter or the other. Rebates Tecate cerveza is offering a $20 rebate for the Hatton-Pacquiao pay-per-view fight to customers who buy a 12-pack or more of the beer.

Source: http://www.thesweetscience.com/boxing-article/6769/bruce-lee-pacquiao-chuck-norris-hatton/

Boxer Manny Pacquiao looks beyond the ring to politics after Ricky Hatton fight

2009-04-30T16:43:00.000-07:00

In a corner of the Wild Card boxing gym, a small, compact man with a tiny waist, powerful arms and muscular calves genuflects in prayer at the edge of the sparring ring, his head resting on the buttress.

A white bandanna is wrapped loosely around his head, his chin is tucked into his chest, and his hands are pressed together tightly in worship. This is Manny Pacquiao, devout Catholic, Filipino idol, street urchin turned benefactor and, at 5ft 6in in his socks, the best pound-for-pound boxer on the planet. Finally, he looks up, bright-eyed, and smiles. He utters a few words in his native Tagalog, and his entourage of 30 Filipinos collapses in laughter.

The Wild Card, located between Santa Monica and Sunset boulevards, a few blocks from the centre of Hollywood, is a dream factory for fighters. It is an institution of sweat, spit and sawdust, where some of the world's best boxers pound the bags alongside former lags, aspiring fighters and even Hollywood A-listers such as Mickey Rourke and Mark Wahlberg.

Each afternoon, the gym is cleared for Pacquiao so that he may train in peace. For the past six weeks, the Wild Card has resounded to the beat of a drum, and the rattle of a speedball at the end of Pacquiao's blurred fists.

On Saturday, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Pacquiao (48 wins in 53 professional fights) will learn whether his training has paid off when he steps into the ring with Manchester's Ricky Hatton (45 wins in 46 professional fights) for the latter's IBO and Ring Magazine Light Welterweight world titles.

The contest, pitting the two most popular fighters in the world against each other, is expected to gross an estimated £40 million. Pacquiao is guaranteed at least £10 million for his night's work, which could rise to £15 million with his share of pay-per-view TV takings, making it his largest payday. It could also be his last.

It is a month before the fight, a Saturday, and the trainer Freddie Roach gestures outside the Wild Card. 'Look,' he says. In the quadrangle below, more than 500 Filipinos have gathered in an orderly queue around the gym's perimeter fence and car-park to shake hands, ask for an autograph, or simply touch the arm of the man who has had the official titles 'National Treasure' and 'National Fist' bestowed upon him by the government of the Philippines.

Roach, who runs the Wild Card, is widely considered the world's leading boxing trainer, and has overseen the careers of 23 world champions, including Mike Tyson and Bernard Hopkins.

A former lightweight fighter himself, Roach, 49, has Parkinson's disease, which leaves him with the shakes and a slight limp, though he says the symptoms disappear when he goes to work on the pads with his charges. 'We have been together eight years now and Pacquiao is like no other fighter I've ever known,' he says. 'What sets him apart from all the others is his work ethic. He's just relentless.'

In 14 years as a professional, Pacquiao has won world titles in four weight divisions – from 7st 8lb to 9st 9lb, at flyweight, super bantamweight, super featherweight and lightweight. In his last contest, in December, in what many felt would be a step too far, he dismantled America's most popular boxer, Oscar De La Hoya, at the 10st 7lb limit, in eight one-sided rounds.

Pacquiao is currently rated by The Ring, the sport's most respected trade magazine, as the best boxer in the world. His career earnings stand at an estimated £30 million. (Major paydays have come late in his career, in the past three years.)

Boxing promoters are by nature artists of smokescreen and hype, but it is still surprising to hear Bob Arum, the veteran Las Vegas-based promoter who oversaw Muhammad Ali's career in the 1960s, comparing Pacquaio with such a singular fighter
as Ali. 'Muhammad was larger than life, and loved by people, but I have never had a fighter who has so captivated one people as Manny,' Arum says. 'Everywhere I go, I am approached by Filipinos.'

Such is Pacquiao's standing in his home country that it is written into Philippine law that the army will go to Pacquiao's aid if his family is in danger. He carried the flag for the Philippines at the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, and is the first Filipino boxer to have his image appear on a stamp. In a Time magazine online poll to find the 100 most influential people of 2009, Pacquiao has so far garnered more than 20 million votes.

Emmanuel 'Manny' Dapidran Pacquiao was born in December 1978 in the small town of Kibawe in Mindanao, the second largest of the Philippines' 7,107 islands. His early life was one of true poverty. The family lived in a shanty town, sleeping on cardboard boxes. His father, Rosalio Pacquiao, was a farmhand; his mother, Dionisia Dapigaran, did an assortment of odd jobs, and raised her children to believe in God. She hoped that Manny might one day become a priest. Manny often missed school to work in a laundry and do menial jobs to help make ends meet.

In 1990, when he was 12, two events changed Pacquiao's life. First, on television, he witnessed James 'Buster' Douglas defeat the seemingly invincible Mike Tyson in Tokyo – Pacquiao's first encounter with boxing, which led him to dream of a career in the ring. He would do odd jobs at the local gym and made his own punchbag out of a cardboard box stuffed with old clothes.

Second, and more significantly, he ran away from his family. He had found a stray dog, and brought it home. His father, who had been drinking, was enraged and, to punish the boy, cooked and ate the animal. Horrified, Pacquiao packed his bags and left for good. He slept rough, eking out a living selling iced water and doughnuts, each for a penny profit, until he stowed away in a boat bound for Manila 500 miles away.

After a time living on the streets, then finding a job as a gardener and construction worker, Pacquiao met Ben Delgado, who ran the L & M Gym in Sampaloc. 'Manny approached me and asked me if I would train him,' Delgado tells me as we sit in Nat's Thai Food restaurant in the quadrangle below the Wild Card. 'It was a rough area of Manila, but it was a good gym.' While several promoters told Pacquiao he was too small to be a boxer, Delgado spotted a raw yet rare talent in the young man, and agreed to work with him.

Pacquiao had no money, so Delgado let him live in the gym for the next two years, sleeping beside the workout areas in a small room. 'Sometimes we used to put plywood boards on the canvas and slept in the ring,' Delgado says. 'In the mornings we went jogging, the rest of the day we just trained. He always had a big heart, in and out of the ring, and always, even then, wanted to be champion of the world.'

Under Delgado's guidance, Pacquiao turned professional at 17, and became a rising star on a televised weekly boxing show in the Philippines called Blow by Blow. At the time, he was earning about $2 per fight, which he sent home to his mother. His progress was rapid, his reputation grew, and before long the world flyweight title was on his radar. He won the World Boxing Council flyweight belt in Thailand, against Chatchai Sasakul, in December 1998, at the age of 19.

His major career break came in 2001 when, still under Delgado's tuition, Pacquiao fought at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, his first fight in America. He had been called up as a late replacement against the International Boxing Federation super bantamweight champion Lehlohonolo 'Hands of Stone' Ledwaba. Pacquiao, still a raw brawler at this point, and an outsider for the title, stopped the South African Ledwaba in the sixth round.

He was quickly spotted by Freddie Roach, who has plotted his fighting strategy ever since. Roach remodelled Pacquiao's style to make use of his blistering hand speed, while developing a mental toughness through a rigorous sparring and fitness regimen. 'Pacquiao, physically, became a fighting machine,' Roach says. Fearless, he stands toe-to-toe with his opponents, is almost impossibly light on his feet, and seems to answer every punch taken with three of his own.

Since 2001 only four of Pacquiao's 18 fights have taken place in his native country, with half of them in Vegas, the world's fight capital. To his compatriots, he has become the Philippines' most famous and successful export, and a symbol of triumph over adversity. Fourteen years after Pacquiao turned professional, Delgado, now 72, still attends every fight, and is a permanent fixture within Pacquiao's Los Angeles entourage. The boxer calls him his 'lucky charm'.

Pacquiao joins us in the restaurant. He has just completed 16 rounds of sparring against four different fighters, 12 rounds on the pads with Roach, and an hour's run in the Hollywood Hills, with only his Jack Russell – with whom he shares the nickname 'Pacman' – able to keep the cardio-sapping pace. After training, he had spent two hours signing autographs for all the people gathered at the gym.

'I have to give people time to take a picture, and sign autographs. I have to be generous to people. It is in my heart. Without that, I would not be Manny Pacquiao,' he says, ordering boiled eggs and salad. 'I believe that being famous means one of your responsibilities is to give.'

For a man so revered, he is deeply humble. He has charisma, yet engages only in spurts, before withdrawing deep inside himself. 'I'm just a regular person who believes life is simple, and I like a simple life,' he says. 'I have a lot of friends around me. I'm happy with that. Of course, in the ring, you have to be a warrior, but outside the ring, people know I'm friendly. Ricky Hatton and I will be friends after the fight, whatever happens.'

When not training in California, Pacquiao lives in a presidential-style mansion in General Santos City, Mindanao, with his wife, Jinkee, and their four children. The compound is manned 24/7 by armed security guards (there have been threats made against his children in the past). He is building homes for his siblings, his mother and his father, with whom he was reconciled publicly in 2006.

'If people don't have money, or have problems, they come to him,' Delgado says. 'And he helps them. Everyone loves him in the Philippines, from low profile to the high people.'

'Whenever he is in the Philippines,' Lee Samuels, the publicist for Bob Arum's Top Rank Inc promotion company, explains, 'people line up at his house for charitable gifts every day. They are mostly children, but also people who fall behind on their mortgage payments, people who have fallen on hard times.'

Pacquiao finds it difficult to refuse them. He is currently funding 250 children through school in his neighbourhood, through a foundation set up several years ago. Some are orphans, others have parents who have requested his help. Since his last fight in December, he has organised the export from the United States of 350 American-built hospital beds destined for wards around the General Santos region, a fire engine and an ambulance, and is overseeing the rebuilding of the L & M Gym in Manila into an apartment complex, incorporating a boxing gym in the basement.

At his American apartment, in a gated compound in Los Angeles, I asked him how he felt about the widespread poverty in the Philippines. He fixed me with a steely look. 'Poverty does not make me angry,' he said. 'But it makes me feel bad inside, and I want to help. I want the people of the Philippines to be happy, even if they have nothing. Even if they can just have enough to eat food three times a day. I feel so bad because God gave us everything to live in this world, so why don't we share with other people?'

Some of Pacquiao's most ardent supporters claim him as a latter-day saint, a new-age leader of the Maharlikan people who were conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century.

'Pacquiao is not just an inspiration for people, but has been a saving grace for the Philippines government on more than one occasion,' says Granville Ampong, a highly respected Filipino journalist based in Los Angeles, who writes for several newspaper titles in the Philippines. 'The Philippines is in a state of political chaos, of economic meltdown. There are many controversies around the current administration, and he has saved them from attack from revolutionaries.'

On the island of Pacquiao's birth, Mindanao, rebels have been fighting for a separate Islamic state within the mainly Catholic country for decades; the conflict is said to have claimed more than 120,000 lives. In spite of a ceasefire in 2003 and regular peace talks, violence continues.

'The masses could have overthrown the government but each time Manny fights, he calms the situation,' Ampong says. 'When he enters the ring, a truce is declared between guerrillas and the national army, and the crime rate all over the Philippines drops to zero. It's an amazing phenomenon.'

It is widely accepted that, despite his lack of a formal education, Pacquiao's destiny lies in Philippine politics. There is strong speculation that he will retire from the ring later this year, in time to prepare for the general elections in 2010. Last September he was sworn in as a member of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's Free Filipino party. 'I'm convinced,' Arum says, 'that one day he will be president of the Philippines.'

When Pacquiao defeated De La Hoya in December, he dedicated his victory 'to President Arroyo, to the whole Philippines, and to the Filipino people all over the world.' In the press conference, Pacquiao was flanked by two leading politicians, governor Luis 'Chavit' Singson and the energy secretary Lito Atienza. At the post-fight party, more politicians were spotted among his fans. Mayors of seven Manila suburbs have enjoyed ringside seats at his recent fights, along with the husband of President Arroyo.

In late February a press tour was held in Manchester and London to promote Pacquiao's contest with Hatton. The Philippine ambassador attended the news conferences in both cities. 'They have to be there,' Arum explains. 'Not because of Manny's career, but because of theirs.'

Though it once boasted one of south-east Asia's best-performing economies, the Philippines is now saddled with a large national debt, and tens of millions of people live in poverty. A third of the population live on less than a dollar a day. The economy is heavily dependent on the billions of dollars sent home each year by the huge Filipino overseas workforce, but the world recession is driving the country towards economic collapse.

The Philippines also possesses the highest birth rate in Asia, with forecasters predicting the population of 90 million (it is the world's 12th most populous country) could double within three decades, pushing the fragile economy past breaking point.
It is also the world's biggest rice importer, and has seen prices soar in recent years. The Philippines needs, if not a miracle, then an individual who embodies unity and hope for the future.

'It is too premature to judge the future of Manny Pacquiao in political terms,' Ampong says. 'The realm of Philippine politics is a tricky one. There is a huge gap between rich and poor, and trying to bridge the gap is an idealistic wish. I'm not suspicious of his motives, but what about the numbskull politicians following him? What are their motives? I think Philippine politics is going
to be very difficult for him.'

Pacquiao, unaccustomed to defeat, has already discovered that winning at the ballot box is not as straightforward as winning in the ring. In February 2007 he announced he was running for congress under President Arroyo's party, to widespread dismay from both his fans and the general public. Arroyo had become president in 2004 in controversial circumstances, following vote-rigging allegations. These have contributed to the unrest in Mindanao where, in a 2008 survey, 58 per cent of citizens said they felt Arroyo had cheated in the election.

On May 17 2007 Pacquiao was defeated in the congressional elections by Darlene Antonino-Custodio, running for the Nationalist People's Coalition, who received 139,061 votes to Pacquiao's 75,908. Pacquiao had funded his campaign with his own money, though it has been claimed that much of the funds were siphoned off by his own supporters. Political naivety, and his support for a controversial president, appear to have cost him victory on this occasion. Pacquiao's boxing fans rejoiced after the election defeat, and he returned to the ring. But not, it seems, for much longer. It remains to be seen whether he can hold on to his phenomenal popularity once he hangs up his gloves.

'Manny needs to distance himself from Arroyo if he intends to maintain his popularity in the Philippines,' Ampong says. Indeed, it is possible that the backlash has already begun. Pacquiao has recently had run-ins with the Philippine media, a situation that was unthinkable a few years ago. The Manila Bulletin reported in the summer of 2007 that he had a gambling problem, though the reporter later apologised personally to Pacquiao, who withdrew a libel action against the newspaper.

Once he is ensconced in politics, more people may emerge who are determined to bring him down. And unlike Hatton and De La Hoya, they may fight dirty. 'I spent a month in the Philippines in 2007 trying to dissuade Manny from running for congress but to no avail,' Mike Koncz, a close friend of Pacquiao and one of his long-term advisers, says. 'It is just his burning desire and strong belief that he can make a difference in Philippine politics. Do I agree? No, because one man cannot change the system over there, but that's his belief. He thinks he can change the system for the better and help people out of poverty that way. And when Manny feels like that, you can't change his mind. He's a fighter, and he always will be.'

It is Monday morning, three weeks before the fight. Back in the gym, Pacquiao is on familiar ground. The speedball is a blur on the far wall, and the fighter, totally focused and with his fists flashing, is framed by a huge poster of Muhammad Ali, open-mouthed, behind him. Training over, he stops for a chat. I ask if he is ever worried about losing. He pauses for a moment and then smiles. 'I have no fear in my life,' he says. 'I don't fear losing. Why feel fear in your heart when you believe in God?'

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxingandmma/5243745/Boxer-Manny-Pacquiao-looks-beyond-the-ring-to-politics-after-Ricky-Hatton-fight.html

Roach, Mayweather Sr. in war of words

2009-04-30T16:42:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS -- Respectfully. That is how junior welterweight world champion Ricky Hatton and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao have conducted themselves toward each other during the buildup to their super fight.

Their trainers? Not so much.

While Hatton and Pacquiao, who is gunning for a world title in a record-tying sixth weight class, will meet in the main event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday (HBO PPV, 9 p.m. ET) in a much-anticipated showdown, Hatton's trainer, the irrepressible Floyd Mayweather Sr., and Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach sound as if they are getting ready to throw down in an undercard fight.

They even did a traditional staredown and posed together à la the main event after Wednesday's final news conference, much to the delight of the media.

Hatton (45-1, 32 KOs), who demolished former titleholder Paulie Malignaggi in a November title defense, and Pacquiao (48-3-2, 36 KOs), who sent Oscar De La Hoya into retirement with a December pummeling in a welterweight fight, are the kinds of fighters who like to let their fists do the talking inside the ring. They are confident that they will win and don't spend time before the fight making disparaging remarks about their opponents.

Mayweather and Roach, however, have been at each other throughout the promotion. From the kickoff news conferences in Hatton's native England to their weekly comments about each other during HBO's "24/7" series, there's been just as much talk about Roach vs. Mayweather as there has been about Hatton vs. Pacquiao.

"Freddie 'The Joke Coach' Roach. That's what I think he is. He's a joke of a coach," Mayweather said, repeating for the umpteenth time his nickname for Roach.

Although Roach is typically far more laid back than Mayweather, he has also gotten into the act.

"A lot of people ask me if I'm worried about Manny fighting Hatton since Hatton has never lost a fight at 140 pounds," Roach said. "As long as Floyd Mayweather is in Hatton's corner, I have absolutely no concerns. It's not like his brother Roger is training him. Floyd training Hatton for this fight is our biggest advantage."

With the fighters taking the high road, trainers bashing each other will have to do. They've given the media all kinds of tasty and inflammatory quotes.

With the fighters taking the high road, trainers bashing each other will have to do. They've given the media all kinds of tasty and inflammatory quotes.

Mayweather has disrespected Roach ever since De La Hoya parted ways with Mayweather to go with Roach for his fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in May 2007.

"Who has he really worked with," Mayweather said of Roach. "He had a lot of big fighters, but he hasn't done anything with them. What has he done with them? He got one man in his court; it's Pacquiao. Who else do you know that he got that he's done something with? And what fighter has he made? I made my son, and who has he made? He hasn't made anybody. Explain it? That's all I can tell you, man; the guy ain't made anybody. Simple."

Roach's response?

"My first champion, Virgil Hill, I started him out from his first pro fight," Roach said of one of his numerous champions. "I mean, I've made a lot of good fighters out there. He made his son through birth, but Roger [Mayweather, Floyd Sr.'s brother] made him as a fighter. So, it doesn't bother me."

De La Hoya, who worked with Mayweather for several years and with Roach for one fight, said they're both good trainers, although when asked to pick one over the other, he went with Mayweather.

"Both of them will get you in tip-top shape," said De La Hoya, whose company, Golden Boy, promotes Hatton and is co-promoting the fight with Top Rank. "They'll train you, they'll make you run many miles, they'll make sure you're in the best shape of your life for that fight. The difference with Freddie and Mayweather is, I think, Mayweather is more technically sound when it comes to using different combinations with the mitt work. Freddie, he'll have you throw combinations, but it's a repeated combination over and over and over. The strategy really isn't 100 percent.

"I love Freddie Roach to death, I really do. Nothing personal to him, but from my experience, Floyd really had me at the top of my game."

When the promoters put Roach and Mayweather on a recent teleconference with the media to discuss the fight, they knew what they were doing. They knew they would get a lot of jawing back and forth between them, and they were right.

When one reporter asked who the better fighter was, since both boxed professionally before becoming trainers, Mayweather spoke up quickly.

"I most definitely was the better fighter than Freddie Roach. As a matter of fact, I've got a poster down at the gym where Freddie's on my undercard," Mayweather said.

Said Roach, "Well, you know what, I tried really hard. I fought on TV a lot more than him. I was a lot more popular than him."

Then they got into it.

Mayweather: "You were a bum."

Roach: "You know, his brother [Roger] was a great fighter, but he lost to my fighter Marlon Starling twice. He got his ass kicked twice. So, how good was he? He was OK."

Mayweather: "You weren't OK. You were a bum."

Roach: "So you think."

Mayweather: "You got whopped so much, Freddie. Come on, Freddie."

Roach: "You're the expert. Hey, Floyd, can I ask you a question?"

Mayweather: "Yes, sir."

Roach: "When I get presented the [2008] trainer of the year award [in June], I want you to present that to me this year because that's as close as you'll get to it."

Mayweather: "We're gonna see about that, Freddie. We'll see about that."

Roach: "I'd like for you to do that."

Mayweather: "And what are you going to do when I win it, Freddie?"

Roach: "I've won it three times. You've never won it. You're not going to win it ever."

While Roach seems genuinely peeved by Mayweather's putdowns, Mayweather seems to have a bit of a glint in his eye when he talks smack.

"It's not animosity, man," Mayweather said. "I'm having fun, whether you believe it or not. I'm having fun with this. I'm not afraid of Freddie at all or anything. I'm having fun with this.

"This is a build-up. That's all it is, man, to me. Everybody wants their fighter to win. But with me it's talking. Even if you look back with [Muhammad] Ali when he was doing his thing, everything is a build-up, man. Some guys get in each other's faces and never get out of each other's. But this is something with me. I'm having fun with this. I mean, I'm looking to win the fight and I'm sincere about winning the fight but as far as me, the animosity and the bad talk, I don't have nothing against Freddie right now. When this fight's over, me and Freddie can still shake hands and hug and you know. I don't have nothing against Freddie. I really think Freddie's a nice guy, but right now, this is warfare and I'm looking forward to my man winning, and I'm gonna do whatever it takes for him to win."

Roach made fun of Mayweather's stint in jail. Mayweather mocked Roach for being manhandled once in a sparring session by Roger Mayweather. The trainers have praised the other man's fighter, just not each other.

"I think Manny's a very good fighter," Mayweather said. "I think he can be a much better fighter, though, under different circumstances. But Manny's a very good fighter. I can't take anything away from Manny. I can think of a lot more things he can do that's he's not doing. So, you'll have to take that up with his trainer."

Real or manufactured, the Roach-Mayweather battle is good for the promotion, according to De La Hoya.

"It's huge. It's priceless because you're not going to get Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao talking bad about each other," De La Hoya said. "You're going to get some great action inside the ring, but people have to know about the fight, and we can do that through Floyd Sr. and Freddie Roach. Apparently, it's become a Floyd Sr.-Freddie Roach circus, but at the end of Saturday night, we'll see the bear and lion going inside the ring and duke it out."

But Saturday night isn't here just yet, so the trainers are still battling:

Mayweather: "My man's ready, and I know Freddie 'The Joke Coach' Roach is scared right now."

Roach: "Oh, he is?"

Mayweather: "And he's probably going to go crawl up in some hole somewhere."

Roach: "Enough with this dueling, man. It's old."

Mayweather: "It's the truth, man. You the Roach. … You see me come [Saturday] so we can fight. You understand me?"

Roach: "You want me come get me? You know where I live."

Mayweather: "I've got you, Freddie."

On and on it goes.

Dan Rafael is the boxing writer for ESPN.com.

Source: http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/boxing/columns/story?columnist=rafael_dan&id=4113216

Purchase Tickets Is Pacquiao on the Money?

2009-04-30T16:40:00.000-07:00

The speed, the speed, the speed of Manny Pacquiao will be too much for Ricky Hatton to handle. Hatton will need to look for on early knockout in order to win. As the fight goes on Pacquiao’s quickness and technical skills will be just too much for Hatton to handle. Pacquiao takes this with a tenth round stoppage and maintains his P4P title.

Dan Horgan (Pacquiao)

Speed kills and Pacquiao is fast. Pacquiao will be too quick for Hatton, and although Hatton seems to have improved defensively under Floyd Mayweather Sr., he has a bad habit of resorting back to his hit-and-grab brawling style during fights.

By Rick Assad (Pacquiao)

There may be some dissent, but Manny Pacquiao is the best boxer pound-for-pound plying his trade today. In tight situations, this has helped the 30-year-old Filipino legend, and it will again when he faces England's Ricky Hatton for the International Boxing Organization light welterweight title May 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The action will be keen and fierce from the opening bell. Hatton's only blemish was a 10th-round knockout by undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr. Hatton gave Mayweather credit, but also admitted that he was desperate and somewhat careless. Hatton's forte isn't defense, and Pacquiao (48-3-2 and 36 knockouts) will take full advantage. Hatton (45-1-0 and 32 KO's) wades in, which will aid Pacquiao, who has faced stiffer competition than Hatton. In seven combined fights against Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Juan Manuel Marquez, Pacquiao is 5-1-1. Last December, Pacquiao fought an aging Oscar De La Hoya, and the Golden Boy quit on his stool after the eighth round. It won't be as one-sided, but he will prevail. How about the ninth round?

Rene Trujillo

Freddie Roach has been confidently saying that the May 2nd bout pitting Manny Pacquiao against Ricky Hatton will not go the distance. While I respect Freddie Roach and recognize all the success he has had, I believe that this fight will go longer than he's expecting. I think there are two possible scenarios that can play out with this fight. I am usually not one to make predictions so I will just give you the readers the two possibilities on how the fight will go come fight night.

If the Ricky Hatton of old shows up, it might indeed be a short night for the English warrior but not as short as Roach is predicting. Pacquiao will have an easy night of work if Hatton resorts back to his old ways, meaning coming in without any head movement or powerful jabs. The bull rushes may have been an advantage against the Pacman of a few years back, but Pacquiao has become a more controlled brawler darting in and coming back out to avoid any damage of significance. This new and improved Pacquiao was on display against De la Hoya, proving that even though he was the smaller fighter in the bout he was able to do significant damage with his speed and boxing ability. Hatton will need to use the jab coming in along with head movement consistently to be able to do some damage on the inside. Failing to improve on those techniques will cost Hatton the fight.

Nearly eight years ago, Pacquiao had one of his toughest fights in San Francisco against the late Agapito Sanchez. That bout marked one of the very few times in Pacquiao's career that he had been bullied in the ring and the fight eventually ended in the sixth round and was declared a technical draw. The fight was stopped due to cuts suffered by Pacquiao that were the result of intentional head butts. In that fight, Sanchez managed to use dirty tactics to frustrate the Filipino inside the ring. The reason I bring that fight up is because Hatton will have to try and bully Pacquiao around to throw him off his game and rhythm. He will not necessarily have to resort to dirty tactics, but if Hatton is to make this a competitive bout he will have to use his naturally bigger frame to his advantage, something De la Hoya was not able to do. Hatton will have considerable success if he can manage to close the gap with Pacquiao and make it an ugly fight on the inside. If he can consistently give himself room to maneuver on the inside, it will be to his benefit as Hatton can pound the body as he is known for. This strategy in all likely hoods can get the Hitman a win on the score cards, but it will be a complete surprise to this writer if he manages to knock Pacquiao out. And if the Filipino does end up getting knocked out, it will be from a body shot, as we have seen over the years that Pacquiao has a hell of a chin (something that isn't mentioned too often).

Rota EM (Pacquiao)

Speed + Right Hook = Big Problems for Hatton Imagine this, the ideal rotation for an orthodox fighter against a lefty is clockwise, with the addition of the ‘Manila Ice’, where is he going to go? Remember: A Floyd counter put the finishing touches on Ricky back in 07’. Hatton’s stamina is no where near Pacquiao’s, and the biggest obstacle isn’t whether Ricky can avoid Manny’s flurries (because he can’t), it’s whether he can touch the Filipino with his own. Within the last 3 1/2 years Hatton has had TWO solid performances. Manny's got TWO KO victories over Morales alone. I see this fight going past the 6th, but not into the championship rounds. Late round (9th or 10th) KO/TKO for the Pacman.

Dan Gabel (Pacquiao)

Both fighters are constant pressure fighters, so I don’t see this fight going to the cards. Hatton is a game fighter and a tough competitor, but I believe Manny might be a once in a generation fighter with dynamic game- changing speed and power. Hatton’s only chance is an early flurry and with some knockdowns. Otherwise I like Pacquiao by TKO (if pressed…8th or 9th round)

Ruel Bavar (Pacquiao)

CAN’T HARDLY WAIT!!

Just a little over a week more before the mega fight. Seems like an eternity. Can't hardly wait to watch this slugfest. I'm expecting a forced toe-to-toe inside exchanges notwithstanding claimed new fighting styles. I still stick to my prediction I made months ago that because of accidental head butts, scorecards by the 7th round, Pacquiao by UD, 70-63.

Albert Alvarez prediction (Pacquiao)

Pacquiao's speed or Hatton's mauling style? In order for Ricky Hatton to win in this one, Ricky would have to be on Pacquiao like bees on honey. Question is, will the referee allow for the British Bulldog to work on the inside? In Hatton's fight against Mayweather, Hatton's plan was to suffocate Mayweather, but Joe Cortez was not going to allow it, Mayweather was then able to operate from the distance he felt comfortable with and nailed Hatton with straight rights. Hatton must close the space between him and Pacquiao fast and must be tenacious with it to smother the incoming lasers’. No doubt about it that Pacquiao's strength is his speed, they say timing beats speed but I say speed isn’t nothing without balance.

Which is why it is imperative for Hatton to lead get in real air tight close and force Pacquiao to fight going backwards, As I for one do not feel that Pacquiao can box going backwards. If you allow Pac-Man to lead he will then have all the balance and angles and will be able to fire off his devastating shots, it's a death wish. You must keep him off balance to take away his arsenal; after all it's hard to be offensive when you have to be on the defensive every second of the round. My gut says that Hatton can get all this accomplished and overwhelm Pacquiao with intense pressure, but my heart says that I am asking too much of Hatton and that Pac-Man along with his speed and southpaw style will be too much and will gobble up the Hitman in 9 brutal rounds. I am picking the Pac-man to find the distance to rock Hatton Manila Ice style. Pacquiao 9th round K.O.

Peter Goldthorpe (Pacquiao)

This is going to be a fantastic occasion as well as a fight with the two best supported boxers in the world and transatlantic rivals will ensure an electric atmosphere, Hatton however will be looking to improve upon his last outing where-as Pacquiao will be looking for more of the same, everybody knows that Pacquiao progresses and get stronger throughout a bout but if Hatton works everything of the jab from the outset not looking for that one big shot which will open him up to the faster Pacquiao to fight his fight could take this fight early into the bout but this needs to be in the first three rounds. But these two and their respective corners will make this intriguing, I however although I am of course rooting for the British fighter I believe that the Filipino will simply have to much for the Mancunian, and I don't see this going the distance on this occasion so I think it will end after the midway of the fight with a stoppage for Pacquiao although don't rule Hatton out!

Steve Hobden (Pacquiao)

This encounter is a real pick em fight. I think we know what to expect from Manny Pacquiao in terms of style. Lots of lateral movement, straight lefts, high output combination punching. But what will Ricky Hatton do differently under the guidance of Floyd Mayweather Snr? He may well be a faster, sharper, more rounded fighter with a better defense than we've seen previously but I think he will have lost some of his strength now that he no longer does the bodybuilding exercises with Kerry Kayes, so I don't believe he will be much stronger than Manny on the night. Also is it too late in Hatton's career to change his style and tweak it effectively to fight the best P4P fighter in the World who just happens to be a southpaw? Hatton has to have success early on, otherwise he may just revert to the Hatton of old and I'm not so sure he will be able to stick to his game plan once the going gets tough.

The Ricky of old often lunges forward with the jab which is perfect for Manny to pick him off with the straight left. But on the other hand Manny tends to hold his hands high leaving his body open to attack. Additionally he also moves from side to side which is perfect for Hatton to unleash a deadly left hook to the body which could prevent Manny from using his lateral movement. I could quite easily make a case for both fighters to win, but I think we will see Manny pot-shooting and out landing Ricky to walk away with a close decision. Hatton's best chance is a body shot as Pacquiao moves to the side but I think Manny and Freddy Roach will have that covered in their game plan. Manny Pacquiao by close decision

Marcelo Ortigoza (Pacquiao)

Since everybody knows Manny “the Filipino Superman” Pacquaio, I’ll delve on the upsides and downsides of Ricky “Hitman” Hatton.

UPSIDES: He is dangerous because he is fighting at his natural weight at 140-147 lbs (Junior Welterweight) where he was undefeated in his 43 outings. With this, there is a presumption of his impregnability -- as what Fort Knox is known – against the punches of smaller opponent Pacquaio who should be exploiting his prowess at his natural weight at 135- 140 lbs (Lightweight).

But Pacman has fought bigger guy named Oscar de la Hoya at 147 (Welterweight), you probably asked?

The Hitman sneered on that on his almost unintelligible -- to us Filipinos – Mancunian- accented-English: “Oscar was just “shot” at the weight. He weighed 147 pounds for the first time in twelve years and on the night of the fight he was still 147 pounds which shocked everyone. You could see in his legs, eyes and face that he was not the great Oscar we loved and enjoyed watching. I don’t know how he dropped the weight but he looked drained and consequently the win flattered Pacquiao.”

In this win, he added that Manny has false impression of himself on that victory. He even commented that another bigger opponent in David Diaz was the weakest Lightweight Champ the Filipino pugilist has defeated.

He opined that on the May 2nd 2009 tussle Pacquaio will have a jolt of his life as he will be fighting a different strategy – far from the old Ricky people used to see when he was under his former long time ciggie-chomping trainer Billy “Not the Preacher” Graham.

He said he has more tricks to show after he was trained by his trash-talkin’ and poem-quoting trainer Floyd Mayweather, Sr.

New approaches like more jabs, defenses, and head movements will be unloaded at the dais.

DOWNSIDES: From the time he fought big guys like Juan Urango, Luis Collazo, and Floyd Mayweather, Jr. I saw already the cracks taking its toll to his body – priced he paid to his God –May-Care-Forward-Style aggression that took away his rhythm.

In the first two fights, he struggled tremendously that many believed he lost to Collazo. In the mentioned 3rd fight, he became a target-paper from the talented all-around boxer Pretty Floyd – probably the conqueror of the Pacman as what Sugar Ray Leonard was to Roberto Duran in their rematch.

But you ask: Hatton has fought elite lightweight boxers in knock-out artist Kostya Tszyu and Jose Luis Castillo -- who many experts said had defeated Mayweather, Jr. in their first fight, and gave us a breathless war of attrition when he fought for the first time Diego “Chico” Corrales that became a Fight of the Year?

My dear Procopio, both of those fighters were damaged goods as what those U.S made Vietnam –vintage Huey Bell military helicopters cum Flying Coffins are as hands me down from Uncle Sam to the no-choice and financially-constrained Philippine government.

Like Castillo who threw his towel at the 4th Round, the rusty Tyszu has not fought for two years thus he raised the white-flag – like the drained de la Hoya – at his stool at the 11th Round as a result of the ceaseless pressure from the English man.

But Hatton-huggers my protest, Ricky baby defeated Paulie Malignaggi as what he and trainer old Floyd crowed?

Gee whiz man, Paulie was fighting as an amputee with his left hand doing the yeoman job for him after the 1st Round until the fight was stopped at the 11th round.

Paulie – who is known to have a brittle hand like a polvoron (powdered biscuit) from Goldilocks in his past fight – was sleek and effective by imposing on Hatton a Mayweather, Jr. fight in the first round until he became economical by fighting his left hand only.

As a believer of the power of Pacquaio’s left hand than what Floyd Jr. right can do, I predict the Filipino knocking-out the Mancunian hero on the 2nd half-of-the-round.

By Rizwaan Zahid (Pacquiao)

The one we’ve been waiting for a while is almost here. The fight which has been rumored since the bell of De La Hoya and Pacquiao is just over a week away and what’s the most intriguing part of this fight is that each fighter has a whole nation behind their back. It’s hard to remember any fighter that has had as much country support as Hatton or Pacquiao. Even the Puerto Rican’s following of Felix Trinidad and Miguel Cotto cannot compare with the Philippines backing of Pacquaio and the way the fans of England - Manchester specifically - follow Hatton.

Onto the fight…

Floyd Sr. has only trained Hatton for one fight thus far and beating an elusive Malignaggi who actually had his hair cut was quite impressive. No fighter can change styles overnight, but we did some glimpses of a jab and more head movement, something which the Hitman hasn’t shown that much before. We all know how much Pacquiao has developed over the years and this will be one of Ricky’s toughest fights, but Pacquiao has never fought anyone that will put this much pressure on him, especially to the body. Ricky’s relentless attack has not been matched by Morales, Barrera or even Juan Manuel Marquez. Hatton is also the naturally bigger guy, walking around at over 160-170 pounds.

Pacquiao is fighting a legit 140 pound fighter. Even most of the fights he had at 130 were against fighters who made most of their career at featherweight before moving up. Morales, Barrera, Marquez and Larios had fought most of their career at 126 and under. He had an impressive showing against a limited David Diaz, who was a legit lightweight, and then fought Oscar De La Hoya who looked like he had the fluid sucked out of him. Ricky on the other hand has fought natural 140 pound fighters and twice at welterweight. Both fighters should start quick, but expect Pacquiao’s speed and stamina to take over and possibly win on cuts, or via close decision. But I wouldn’t, nor should any, be surprised with a Hatton stoppage later in the fight. It will be a test for both to say the least.

Either way, it has fight of the year written all over it.

Carl Hewitt (Hatton)

Pacquiao has an edge in speed, but not as large of an advantage as most are led to believe. Hatton will more than make up for that small speed deficit with a smothering, mauling style that should sap Manny's strength and make him more susceptible to Hatton's power later in the fight. Pacquiao should have his moments early, but Hatton is probably too physically strong for Manny at this time. And Ricky's improvement under Mayweather, Sr. will be even more evident than it was in the Malinaggi fight. I like Hatton by UD.

Huwebes Fernandez (Pacquiao)

I would definitely pick Manny Pacquiao over Ricky Hatton because as Freddie Roach said, "speed kills", and Manny Pacquiao is much faster than Hatton, though Mayweather taught Hatton some improvement in his basic and defensive skills. Hatton will be in a surprise once he gets a taste of a straight left hand courtesy of the PacMan. So it's Manny Pacquiao by 6th round knockout for me.

Dr. Baio (Pacquiao)

After this past Saturdays big fight pinning Taylor vs Froch, I hope the Brits are ready for another great fight. Our foreign travelers were warmly welcome to the US with a Froch win over Taylor, but the coming Saturday Thrill all be leaving with their heads down. So enjoy the feeling of victory on American soil while you can.

My pick for Saturday May 2, 2009 is None other then Manny Pacquaio by UD. Ricky may be bull strong and a new man under Floyd Sr., but Manny has showed us what it means to be a true champ with his wars against Marques. We all saw what the sly Marques did in his last fight against Diaz. This gave us a great view of what Manny went through. He is a true camp. Plus, he is hungry.

Hatton has made is money through big fights and TV deals. Pacquaio still yurns for that and while show us what hunger and skill can do over strength.

Cesar Zuniga (Pacquiao)

YES, it’s only a week away and no one can stop talking about the mega fight between Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton and Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. With a fight of this magnitude, it is safe to say that each fighter does posses the keys to win. Yet, what aren’t so clear are the answers to the important questions surrounding this battle of extremely aggressive and well loved fighters. Such As:

Can Hatton Match Pacquiao’s speed?

How will Pacquiao handle the bigger man’s punches?

Has Floyd Mayweather Sr. made the necessary changes to Hatton’s Defense?

And the list will go on. Let us take an even deeper look and break down the individual categories and the favorite in each.

SPEED: (Pacquiao) Even though Hatton is no slouch, Pacquiao possesses the world class speed that is rare to find a comparison to.

POWER: (Hatton) It’s not quite sure how Manny’s power will be felt at 140, and Hatton is one of the elite punchers in the division.

SIZE: (Hatton) Ricky should be the bigger man in this fight even if it’s not by much.

CHIN: (Pacquiao) Both fighters’ have good chins but they have been stun before, and Hatton was knocked out by Mayweather Jr. who is not known as a KO artist.

EXPERIENCE: (equal) With more the 80 fights between them, both are coming in confident.

CROWD: (Hatton) With the kind of ruckus crowd the English are capable of bringing across the ocean it would not be a surprise to see a majority of English Flags and “Blue Moon” Singers.

VERSATILITY: (Pacquiao) With Freddie Roach at his side Pacquiao has become a good patient boxer and not just a left handed puncher. Can Hatton change his style during the fight if needed?

WILDCARD: (Pacquiao) This is Hatton’s second fight with Mayweather Sr. Even though Hatton showed signs of an improved defense, his first fight was with Paul Malignaggi who has no where near the power Pacquiao has. Hatton is also prone to cuts and with little head movement and a questionable defense it might be a long night of Pacquiao head shots.

Based on this break down one could give the slight edge to Pacquiao. If you ask this writer who he feels will win this fight, he is not picking the underdog in this one. Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao will raise his hands at the end of a late 10th round TKO and remain the world #1 P4P best fighter.

Source: http://www.diamondboxing.com/newsstory.php?list=7109

Graham: Ricky will win spectacularly

2009-04-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton's former trainer Billy Graham is backing his old charge to score a spectacular victory over Manny Pacquiao.

Speaking on Steve Bunce's Boxing Hour, Graham rebuffed any suggestions that Pacquiao was a better boxer or quicker than the Hitman.

Graham added that with his natural size advantage on top of this, he believes Hatton should be a clear favourite, rather than the underdog the bookmakers' have him as.

"I’m really surprised that Manny Pacquiao’s the favourite," Graham said on Setanta Sports News. "So many people are picking him, he’s the bookies favourite and that really amazes me. I think Ricky’s a better fighter.

"They keep going on about Manny’s speed, Ricky’s as fast as Manny, he’s a lot bigger than him. He’ll have at least 10lbs of lean tissue on him on the night. No one can give away 10lbs to Ricky Hatton.

"All fighters struggle with southpaws. That’s a problem because he’s more likely to pick up facial injuries if he’s not smart early on, before he get accustomed to the style, before he gets comfortable. He’s got cut early on in quite a few fights.

"But saying that he has the tools to deal with a southpaw. He’s got a great short right hand, right cross. He’s got a great left hook. He’s just too big, too fast, too powerful and too good.

"I see him winning big, I see him winning spectacularly and I don’t think it’ll last that long. I’d say any time from 4 to 8, I don’t think Manny will go past 8."

Source: http://www.setanta.com/uk/Articles/other-sports/2009/04/30/Boxing-Graham-Ricky-will-win-spectacularly/gnid-50917/

Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao electrify Las Vegas

2009-04-30T16:38:00.000-07:00

When Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao went head to head on Wednesday there was little to suggest that the two box-office stars have anything but a deep mutual respect for each other ahead of Saturday’s light-welterweight super-fight.

But the smiles will be replaced by grimaces come the first bell. “Manny goes for the knockout, I go for the knockout,” Hatton said, before turning on those who believe that the Mancunian cannot win against the Filipino who is regarded as the world’s best pound-for-pound fighter. “They said I was an over-hyped, over-protected, beer-drinking Englishman, but I’m here to shock the world again.”

Pacquiao’s response? “I never hate my opponent, and I have no fear in this fight. We will be firm friends after the fight, and I’d like a rematch at darts, too.”

Americans are coming to terms with a certain singularity: that the biggest fights in their country at present involve men who require a stamp in their passport to ply their trade in the world’s fight capital, following the retirement, two weeks ago, of their leading boxer, Oscar De La Hoya.

His mega-fights brought in just short of $700 million (£474 million) but after his capitulation – at the blurred hands of Pacquiao last December – there is nary an American fighter in sight with a comparable level of appeal.

In the case of this promotion, the lights of the Mojave Desert’s neon strip, dulled by the recession, have been relit by Hatton v Pacquiao, as both bring with them a huge following. One million pay-per-view buys (at almost £40 each) are expected to be sold in the US for this fight – the record is 2.4 million buys for De La Hoya v Floyd Mayweather in 2007 – while in the UK, Sky executives are optimistic of more than 700,000 buys.

The MGM Grand Garden Arena here has long since sold out its 14,000 seats. The gate will bring in $9 million (£6 million), while the promotion, overall, is expected to bring in £40 million.

Ringside seats will be resold for thousands of dollars. To cater for extra demand, closed circuit screens having been set up at seven other casinos along the strip, with seat tickets priced at $50. Such is the demand for the two most popular fighters in the world, seats were always going to be at a premium. Fans float like ghosts around the lobby of the MGM Grand, looking for that golden ticket.

Pacquiao is followed by an entire nation and the Philippines will grind to a halt when the two little men with huge hearts stage their electric dance. When the two men opened formal proceedings this week, known as 'The Grand Arrival’, the supporters turned out in force.

It was no surprise that a group of 6ft 10ins tall Filipinos in tracksuits – the Philippines men’s basketball team – and no fewer than 27 Filipino politicians, ministers and senators, had gathered, with hundreds of well-wishers, for the arrival of Pacquiao at his base at the Mandalay Bay Resort yesterday.

No one could confirm whether there were actually any 'summit talks’ scheduled between the Filipino politicians and their American counterparts. Nor indeed, does it transpire, that the basketball team have a single match scheduled on their 'tour’. This is Hatton-mania v Pac-mania. Sin City is beginning to hum with debate in the taverns. Bookies run a brisk trade.

High up in Pacquiao’s giant suite last night – to which The Daily Telegraph gained exclusive access – an entourage of 30 Filipinos enjoyed animated discussion, while Pacquiao watched Bruce Lee movies, his eyes darting at the action, before rising to his feet to enact the moves. Not a bad way of psyching himself up.

Hatton employs a converse method, slowly building his animosity for fight time towards his opponent.

Only these two men know the deep dark places they will need to take themselves in the last two days before they meet in the ring, while those around them fill the fighters with the certainty that victory will be theirs.

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxingandmma/5245985/Ricky-Hatton-and-Manny-Pacquiao-electrify-Las-Vegas.html

I am ready – Pacquiao

2009-04-30T16:37:00.001-07:00

LAS VEGAS — Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton behaved as though they were hosting a luncheon party for dignitaries on Wednesday at the MGM Grand.

They hardly spoke words of hatred towards each other and conducted themselves in a manner as though they were long-lost friends who suddenly bumped into each other during a social gathering.

They even shook hands, tapped each other on the shoulder and smiled back when one of them was smiled at.

It didn’t appear they are going to punch each other in wild abandon come Saturday night before an expected sellout and boisterous crowd of over 16,000 at the Grand Garden Arena.

It was only the support cast — Hatton’s trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. — who actually made some noise when he opted to call Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach as ‘joke coach Roach” and “cockroach.”

Roach just muttered a few words when he was asked to speak on the dais, telling the audience in a polite manner that since Pacquiao is superior than Hatton, victory would be theirs Pacquiao also didn’t resort to trash-talking, a common ingredient in these types of events, while Hatton’s statements were just rehashed from his previous remarks during the countless Q&A sessions conducted by the organizers.

“I am ready for the fight on Saturday,” said Pacquiao, dressed in a mafia outfit from head to toe.

“I know Ricky Hatton has trained for this fight. I have seen it on (HBO’s documentary) 24/7.”

“I respect Ricky Hatton. He is a good person,” said Pacquiao, eventually telling the people that he is even praying and hoping that nobody gets (seriously) hurt in the fight.”

Hatton’s words had more substance, boxing-wise.

“It doesn’t scare me being in this position. This is my weight division, but I understand that I am the underdog. I understand why people are picking on me especially since Manny Pacquiao is the number one pound-for-pound fighter in the world who had just an exceptional win over Oscar (De La Hoya).”

It was Mayweather Sr., who stole the show with his rough rendition of a poem predicting Pacquiao’s downfall.

“Come May 2nd, you (Pacquiao) will be uncrowned with your head hanging down. The pain and stress left to confess that the Hitman’s the best. So let’s make it simple and plain after this fight, Pac will never be the same. It aint no diggity it aint no doubt, Pac’s gonna find out what it’s all about, when he beat ole legend Oscar De La Hoya, he was over the hill. Now it’s time for you to swallow the same damn pill.”

Top Rank chief Bob Arum and Golden Boy Promotions boss De La Hoya acted as the emcees.

Source: http://mb.com.ph/articles/204417/i-am-ready-pacquiao

Al Bernstein Boxing Channel to Cover Pre & Post Pacquiao vs Hatton Fight

2009-04-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

iBN Sports announced that its Al Bernstein Boxing Channel (ABBC) will provide “up to the minute” weigh-in along with pre and post fight coverage of the May 2nd event, Manny Pacquiao vs Ricky Hatton, which will be broadcast from the MGM Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV. iBN Sports will be on hand for weigh-ins, interviews, and Post Fight Coverage as two of boxing’s biggest sluggers collide in what could be one of the years biggest events. Five-division World Champion Manny “Pac Man” Pacquiao and Ring Magazine and IBO World Junior Welterweight champion Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton, the consensus fighters of the year three of the last four years, rumble for Hattons World Junior Welterweight Championships..

Al Bernstein and the iBN Sports team will be on hand to cover the weigh-in on May 1st, will also do interviews before the match on May 2nd and provide full coverage of the post fight press conference. All of this can be seen at www.ibnsports.com.

The Pacquaio/ Hatton coverage represents the ongoing series of up to the minute pre and post coverage of premiere matches that the ABBC will offer to fans throughout 2009. All broadcasts can be viewed live at www.ibnsports.com for free as well as seen on-demand on the channel.

Al Bernstein said, "This is a true mega-match that deserves full coverage from the media. We look forward to being on hand, as we are for all major boxing matches, to tell all the interesting stories surrounding this match." He added,"The international appeal of this fight makes it very special,"

Al Bernstein Boxing Channel to offer Pacquiao-Hatton: One For The Fans

iBN Sports, a premier Internet-based broadcast sports television network announced that its Al Bernstein Boxing Channel (ABBC) is now showing Pacquiao-Hatton: One For The Fans. A special show previewing the biggest fight in boxing. In the program, legendary boxing announcer Al Bernstein, talks to both fighters and their trainers and offers his own insights into the keys to victory for each boxer. The show also includes expert and celebrity predictions on the outcome of the match. The program can be seen at www.ibnsports.com and right here on eastsideboxing.com

“"For this match we felt the need to do what we did for the Oscar DeLaHoya-Manny Pacquiao match, do a long form program to preview the fight. The IBN team worked hard to create what we feel is s special show for the ABBC." Bernstein said. He added, “In 2009 the ABBC will be doing more of these specials on big matches to continue to provide boxing fans with the programming they deserve.”

The ABBC will also provide full up to the minute coverage of the Pacquiao Hatton match including the May 1st weigh-in and May 2nd post fight press conference, all from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The Al Bernstein Boxing Channel is the only channel anywhere covering only the sport of boxing. The ABBC includes coverage of major matches, previews of big boxing cards, interviews with Boxing’s biggest names and classic highlights from Boxing’s past.

Source: http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=19622&more=1

De La Hoya predicts Hatton KO

2009-04-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS -- Oscar De La Hoya doesn't see the Manny Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton light welterweight showdown on May 2 (May 3 in Manila) going the distance. He picks Hatton to be the man left standing when the end comes.

“I’m gonna go with my guy,” said De La Hoya, who was sent into retirement with a savage beating by Pacquiao last December. “I believe in Ricky, I believe in my trainer that I have for many years, Floyd Mayweather Sr.

“I respect Manny Pacquiao, I respect Freddie Roach. Great fighter, great trainer, but I’m gonna go with Ricky Hatton.”

Owing to the explosiveness and ferocity of both fighters, De La Hoya said the megabuck bout, dubbed the “Battle of East and West”, won't reach the full 12 rounds.

“I don’t see it going the distance. Not early, but maybe late. I know who (will win) but it’s not gonna go the distance.

His choice of Hatton is expected because De La Hoya, the only boxer to win world titles in six divisions, promotes the British “Hitman.”

His choice of Mayweather Sr. over Roach is likewise expected because when he bowed to Mayweather's son and namesake, it was Roach who worked his corner.

For another, it was Roach who bared that “Oscar can no longer pull the trigger.”

Interviewed by Filipino sportswriters after the press conference of the “Battle of East and West,” De la Hoya, however, justified his choice by saying Mayweather Sr. is technically better than Roach, a three-time Trainer of the Year.

Having been battered into submission by Pacquiao in eight rounds, De La Hoya, of course, is in a position to give Hatton some advice on how not to suffer the same fate.

“I’ve given advice to Ricky Hatton already,” said De La Hoya, who is now concentrating on handling his Golden Boy Promotions.

“Obviously I’ve already been there with Manny Pacquiao. I’ve experienced his speed, I’ve experienced his punches, so obviously the advice that I’ve given him I’m sure he’s gonna use.”

De La Hoya maintains he holds no rancor on Pacquiao, a 2-1 favorite in betting lines in this entertainment and gambling capital.

“No it’s not revenge. Ricky Hatton is gonna face him for the first time. Like I said, this is nothing personal. Obviously I’m the promoter here along with Top Rank, and you know Ricky Hatton and Manny Pacquiao are gonna do their job and may the best man wins.”

Read more on the source below:
http://sports.inquirer.net/professional/professional/view/20090430-202431/De-La-Hoya-predicts-Hatton-KO

Hatton will be like De La Hoya, says Pacquiao cutman

2009-04-30T16:33:00.001-07:00

MANILA, Philippines – Ricky Hatton will suffer the same fate Oscar De La Hoya did five months ago.

“It’s gonna be the same Manny Pacquiao that fought De La Hoya, in and out, in and out, bam, bam, bam, and out," said cutman Miguel Diaz, who will again serve as the third man on the Filipino’s corner when he fights Ricky Hatton over the weekend here.

The 30-year old southpaw beat De La Hoya black and blue on his way to scoring a stunning eight-round technical knockout in their so-called “Dream Match" last December.

The loss forced boxing’s “Golden Boy" to finally quit the sport for good.

While Diaz sees another sensational win for the pound-for-pound king, it may not come as easy against a banger like Hatton.

“It’s going to be a little more difficult because for some reason, Dela Hoya was really not in good shape during that fight," said the veteran cutman.

Like trainer Freddie Roach, Diaz pointed out to speed as the major key to beating the 30-year old Hatton.

“Even if it’s a different fight, I see a Manny Pacquiao moving in and out," he said, “You only have to see the legs, you see the calves and that kind of tells you the movement he’s gonna have and that would be the key of the fight." – GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/159347/Hatton-will-be-like-De-La-Hoya-says-Pacquiao-cutman

Bars, malls cash in on 'Pacquiao-Hatton fever'

2009-04-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

Can't fly to Las Vegas? Don’t have pay-per-view? Don't fret because a slew of establishments in Metro Manila and key cities have been offering special screenings (some of which are free) for the much-awaited fight between boxing sensation Manny Pacquiao and Britain's Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton.

The phenomenon has provided many restaurants, electronics companies, and power providers with brisk business this boxing season as many Filipinos again are expected to set their sights on the momentous fight, which is Pacquiao's follow-up after beating Oscar dela Hoya last December.

Several restaurants like Gerry's Grill and Forest Grill in Tomas Morato Avenue in Quezon City are offering promos for the Pacquiao-Hatton match and have reportedly sold out their tickets a full six days before the fight.

According to Gerry's Grill Tomas Morato branch manager Fernan Salvariz, tickets for the live screening have been sold out for all seven of its participating branches since Monday. For a P500 ticket, customers can watch the match on any of the restaurant's five LCD widescreen projectors, strategically placed near the mini-bar, main dining areas, and the posh VIP rooms upstairs. This also includes a free breakfast spread of grilled pork, "daing na bangus", scrambled eggs, and garlic rice.

Salvariz said they are expecting 300 people to come to their branch, and more walk-in customers who tend to appear on the day itself and haggle for seats. "To prevent fights from breaking out, we give them seat numbers so they know who is the priority," he said.

Salvariz added that restaurants like Gerry's Grill offer good ambiance and a steady stream of food and drinks, which give them their edge.

Some restaurants have even bought new TVs and projectors just to be able to offer Pacquiao-Hatton screening opportunities for die-hard boxing and Pacquiao fans, a fact that has made projector sales and rental companies happy.

"People are calling for reservations, but we can't give any so they are forced to buy projectors," said Wena Morales of an AVP products sales and rentals company.

Flock of the faithful

Meanwhile, crowds also flocked to SM Cinema ticket outlets nationwide to get tickets for big-screen live screenings of the Pacquiao-Hatton match at SM theaters.

"I am buying [tickets] before they get sold-out. I want to show my support to Pacquiao so I will watch," said one fan named Mos, who lined up at SM North EDSA to purchase a ticket worth P551.

Joy Aspillas, SM Marketing officer, said the company had started selling tickets for the fight screening as early as March up to April. Customers who bought on specific dates were given a free movie ticket which can be used for any film being exhibited at SM theaters.

"The customer's behavior when it comes to Pacquiao fights is when the date of the match comes nearer, that's when people start buying tickets," she said.

Aspillas added that, among 33 branches of SM Cinemas nationwide, about 88 theaters have already been sold out, amounting to an estimated 28,000 people. Ticket prices for various SM branches range from P500 to P550 or more.

"Ticket sales are really fast. Yesterday, we only sold out [seats for] 72 screens nationwide. Today, it jumped to 88," she said.

Although SM Cinemas do not offer food for their patrons, Aspillas said that the experience would surely make up for it. "Obviously people come here for the big screen because it's better. When you go to the [SM theater], it's like you're actually at the fight. It's more upbeat, and people are energetic and noisy. Also, compared to other exhibitors, we're relatively cheaper," she said in Filipino.

If some businesses make good profit, others stand to lose on May 3 during the live broadcast of the Pacquiao-Hatton match, a Bloomberg report said.

An article by Clarissa Batino of Bloomberg said the Catholic church is projecting less people to come to mass on Sunday morning, since they will most likely be holed up at home to watch the fight on cable television . Even fast food chain McDonald's is expecting a slight dip in customer traffic, but an increase in home deliveries.

Fight for a cause

Some organizations are also taking advantage of the big event to raise money for their causes. The Ateneo Alumni Association, which is selling P600 per ticket for a live screening of the fight at the Ateneo Grade School Auditorium, plans to turn over ticket sale proceeds to the Ateneo Scholarship Fund.

A stone's throw away at the Irwin Theater in the Ateneo Campus, the University of the Philippines Association of Biology Majors (UP ABM) are selling tickets at half the price (P300).

UP ABM treasurer JJ Sanchez said they came up with the event to raise funds for their missions and to revive their scholarship fund which has run out. He said that of 1,130 tickets they are planning to sell, about 600 have been sold.

In a similar trend to commercial establishments, Sanchez also expects more customers to purchase tickets on the day of the screening.

For those who cannot shell out cash, several free screenings will be held all over the country. In Pacquiao's hometown, General Santos City officials are reportedly giving away 8,000 free tickets for fans who want to watch at the General Santos Gym.

In Metro Manila, free screenings will be held at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) gymnasiums or military officer's club function rooms and all sports complexes around Metro Manila.

A mass of crowds are also expected to come for free screenings at the Baclaran, San Dionisio, San Antonio, and Marcelo covered courts in Paranaque; the San Juan Arena behind the Pinaglabanan Shrine; some covered courts and elementary schools in Muntinlupa; Valenzuela; and the Tatalon Basketball Court in Quezon City.

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/04/30/09/bars-malls-cash-pacquiao-hatton-fever

PACQUIAO PREDICTING A WAR

2009-04-30T16:30:00.000-07:00

Pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao is predicting a "war" when he challenges Ricky Hatton for light-welterweight gold at the MGM Grand on Saturday night.

The swift handed Filipino southpaw, 48-3-2 (36 KOs), is bidding to win a world title in his sixth different division in Las Vegas in a contest that looks to be a battle between speed and strength.

Despite being a firm favourite with the Vegas bookmakers, Pacquiao is far from complacent and expects a hostile encounter with the Mancunian.

"I know Ricky Hatton is prepared," said Pacquiao. "I respect him...He's a different kind of fighter than I have been fighting before. He's a good fighter and a strong fighter.

"He has a lot of energy and throws a lot of punches. Everyone knows the style of Ricky Hatton.

"He always comes forward, throwing a lot of punches. It's going to be a war. Oh yeah, it's going to be a war. We're going to make it one.

"I'm confident I will win though. I've trained for eight weeks, sparred more than 150 rounds. I'm ready to fight. When the bell rings, I stop being so nice."

While the fighters were both respectful at their latest press conference they left it to Hatton's trainer Floyd Mayweather Snr to do the trash talking, which he did in typically poetic style.

"After this fight, Pacman will never be the same," Mayweather said. "Hey Pac, it's over, so quit wishing on a four-leaf clover.

"You will be uncrowned, with your head down, on your chest, knowing that Ricky Hatton is the best.

"I hope you know, you have got to go, it's going to be Hitman Hatton by KO."

Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach said only that Pacquaio is in the best shape he has seen and the camp went well.

"He didn't talk because he's got nothing to say," Mayweather said. "He knows I've forgotten more than he will ever know.

"As for Manny, Ricky will whip his (rear). Ricky might not put it as blunt as I will but whatever he says it means the same thing."

Hatton joked: "Whatever he said, that's what I'm saying."

Source: http://www.sportinglife.com/boxing/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=boxing/09/04/30/manual_090604.html

Fight, earn, have fun, then go

2009-04-30T16:29:00.000-07:00

BRILLIANT Filipino boxer, Manny Pacquiao has a smile that can melt stone and fists that can break it.

To watch him is to understand boxing's thrill, to hear of former heavyweight champion Greg Page's death (which was connected to brain damage suffered in a fight) is to be grimly reminded of boxing's price.

Men will always box, and some will always pay for it. It is a legitimised violence, an escape for boys from the street, a test of manhood, and a taker of life.

Of course, people die in numerous sports, but boxers suffer. According to a 2006 report on the American Association of Neurological Surgeons website: "In several studies, 15-40 per cent of ex-boxers have been found to have symptoms of chronic brain injury."

So two things I hope for the talented and terrific 30-year-old Pacquiao. That he doesn't box for too long and that he doesn't lose all his money. Because this is what so many boxers do.

Most sportspeople don't want to stop and it's understandable. Men retire in their 60s and find their lives awkward, to retire in your 30s can be unsettling.

For many athletes, their only skill is wielding a racket or throwing a punch. It is their only earning, and often a very good one, and to stay on is tempting.

Teams may oust greying players but there is no limit in individual sport.

And science is lending a firm hand, for athletes now understand their bodies better, eat better, train better. Golf clubs, for instance, have assisted in making Kenny Perry a major contender at nearly 50.

If sportsmen don't know when to quit, it's no big deal. Except for boxers (and NFL players whose concussions and impact injuries haunt them into old age).

Boxers, their brains bruised and careening around their skulls, have to know when to stop, but they rarely do. They see Ali now and they still don't care.

Ali boxed too long. George Foreman is thankfully well, but boxed too long. Evander Holyfield is 47 and fought in December last year.

If you're older, you're slower, if you're slower you're going to be hit more.

And that can't be good in the long run because, according to the AANS: "The force of a professional boxer's fist is equivalent to being hit with a 13-pound bowling ball traveling 20 miles per hour, or about 52 g's." And of course, heavyweights, one presumes, suffer more.

Pacquiao, asked by a television anchor last week about what he was going to do with all his money, said he'd save it. I hope so. Because no one loses money like boxers. No one.

Boxers are often generous, they're often spendthrifts, they're often taken advantage of. To house his entourage in Manila for the legendary Joe Frazier fight, Ali needed 50 rooms. Then the money goes and fighters have to keep fighting. It's a bad mix.

Foreman returned to fighting because he was almost bankrupt (and made a lot of money). Mike Tyson reportedly squandered $300 million in earnings and filed for bankruptcy. Joe Louis came back because he had to pay taxes.

And these are the big fighters, not the smaller ones, with lesser pay days, who keep sweating and pounding away in forgotten rings.

Greg Page, who died last week, suffered brain damage in his final fight in 2001. His wife, so stated a report, "attributed his death to the lingering effects of that final fight".

He was 42 when he last fought and, according to the New York Times, it was a fight held in a nightclub so "dingy that decaying dead rats littered a corner of Page's dressing room". It seems a sad, desperate place for a boxer to go and start dying.

So Manny, fight, earn, then know when to go.

Source: http://blogs.straitstimes.com/2009/4/30/fight-earn-have-fun-then-go

Khan, Hopkins see a Pacquiao win vs Hatton

2009-04-30T16:28:00.002-07:00

MANILA, Philippines – Two boxers who in one way or the other share an affiliation with Ricky Hatton see him losing his fight against Manny Pacquiao this weekend.

Olympic silver medalist Amir Khan is leaning on a Pacquiao victory while former undisputed middleweight champion Bernard Hopkins believes the Filpino ring icon as the better boxer between the two.

“Manny is looking very good, looking very strong. I think Manny can do it," said the 23-year old Khan, a compatriot of Hatton who also hails from Manchester, England.

Hopkins belongs to the same Golden Boy stable like Hatton. While he stressed that there could not be much of a difference in speed, he said the difference is that “Pacquiao is a sharpshooter."

The 43-year old ageless warrior for Philadelphia admitted Hatton being a brave fighter, but added that “sometimes, he’s too brave for his own comfort."

Khan admitted being a friend of Hatton, but just couldn’t deny the reality.

“I maybe from England but Manny is a great fighter, the best pound-for-pound fighter. He is what he is. He’s gonna go in there and do what he does best. His speed is too quick. He’ll catch Ricky Hatton with a punch that he wouldn’t see," he said.

In contrast, Hopkins doesn’t see the fight ending in a knockout.

“It has a good, great chance to go 12 rounds," he said, defying the general notion that it would be a short night. “I see a distant fight, but not a close one. Whoever wins this fight, wins by unanimous decision." – GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/159361/Khan-Hopkins-see-a-Pacquiao-win-over-Hatton

Roach keeps quiet on verbal jabs by Mayweather Sr.

2009-04-30T16:28:00.001-07:00

MANILA, Philippines – Floyd Mayweather Sr. tried to stir a word war between him and Freddie Roach by going poetic in proclaiming an imminent Ricky Hatton victory over Manny Pacquiao this Sunday at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Good old Freddie however, wouldn’t fell into his trap.

As the three-time Trainer of the Year perfectly puts it, “this is not about us trainers. It’s about Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton."

Except for Mayweather’s futile attempt to get the ire of Roach, nothing really explosive came about when the formal press conference for the Pacquiao-Hatton 12-round fight was held Wednesday at the MGM Grand Garden.

But three days from now, there will be a lot of action, both fighters guarantee, as they tangle in a bout dubbed as the first mega-fight in the post Oscar De La Hoya era.

“That doesn’t scare me," Hatton addressed the media, referring to a lot of write ups that had been coming out lately regarding him as the obvious underdog.

“I have been the underdog before. I hear what you say, ‘he is an over-hyped, over-protected, fat beer drinking Englishman.’ He’s gonna shock the world again."

Shocked the world the 30-year old Hatton did four years ago when he scored an 11th round knockout of Kostya Tszyu to win the 140-pound championship. Tszyu was then regarded as one of the world’s best pound-for-pound fighters.

In Pacquiao, Hatton is not only up against today’s pound-for-pound king, but also faces a fighter who’s at the peak of his career.

The Filipino ring icon as always, spoke humbly, complementing his opponent from Manchester, England with nothing but nice words.

“He’s a good person, a nice guy," Pacquiao said of Hatton. “I’m ready for the fight, and I know Ricky also prepared for it. This is nothing personal."

But for Mayweather, it is.

Not only did he reiterate in calling Roach “the joke", the father of retired champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. also referred to Pacquiao’s trainer as `cock-Roach.’

Then he began his act, waxing poetic about Hatton beating out Pacquiao.

“Am being for real and saying what I feel, this is the truest quote that I ever wrote," said Mayweather, eliciting laughter from the crowd and people at the podium including welterweight champion Sugar Shane Mosley, former undisputed middleweight king Bernard Hopkins, Golden Boy big boss Oscar De La Hoya and Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.

“Hey Pac…. It ain’t personal between me and you, come May 2nd, you will be uncrowned with your head hanging down."

Mayweather was so demeaning with his words that when Arum’s turn to introduce Roach, the Top Rank honcho quipped, “at least in our camp, we’re a little more restraint."

Which is what Roach displayed when it was his turn at the podium.

“Manny Pacquiao is in the best shape of his career. I just wish the Hatton camp good luck and we’ll all see you on Saturday," he said in his usual mild-manner action.

Both Pacquiao and Hatton are set to work out a sweat for the last time Thursday at the IBA gym. The following day, the official weigh-in will be held also at the MGM Grand. – GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/159342/Roach-keeps-quiet-on-verbal-jabs-by-Mayweather-Sr

Manny Pacquiao, Ricky Hatton news conference is a con job

2009-04-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

From Las Vegas -- An old wives' tale claims they once held a boxing news conference and there was actual news.

They trotted out Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton, opponents for Saturday night's next big deal in the sport. Both acted responsibly, spoke sensibly, brought no new insight to their match, and sat down.

Unless Mike Tyson, Bernard Hopkins or Floyd Mayweather Jr. are fighting, the lead-up show is never about the boxers and always about the window dressing.

That's the eternal charm. Boxing is the world's only honestly dishonest sport. It is the University of Con Artists, the Academy of the Slick. It is the worm of organized athletics. Cut off a piece of it here, another there, and it still keeps wiggling.

If you are a member of the media, the people who run boxing know that you know. And you know that they know that you know.

College sports, for example, yammers on about building character, when it is mostly building pros. Boxing just builds characters. It looks you right in the eye, tells you it will try to con you, and then proceeds.

Wednesday's extravaganza, in a huge ballroom at the MGM Grand, where the media messengers of this madness flocked in large numbers, included a fashion show, strange bedfellows, comments on international relations, insults and poetry, tugs at the heart strings, and the ever-present slick-selling.

This is geared to getting ink-stained wretches, Internet typists and TV talking heads in tight black dresses to gobble up the inanities of the day and dispense them to the public so the public will buy pay-per-view packages at $49.95. That's the message. The only one.

Delivering it was a long row of men on a dais, their fashion statements running from three-piece suits to sport coat and T-shirts to wind breakers and sweat suits. Pacquiao wore white shoes, pants and sport coat with a black tam. Hatton, who referred to himself as a fat, beer-drinking Englishman, wore a T-shirt and a black floppy hat.

The master-of-ceremonies duty was jointly handled by Bob Arum and Oscar De La Hoya. Arum once promoted De La Hoya. Then De La Hoya went out on his own. Along the way, they have called each other every name in the book -- to be fair, Arum more than De La Hoya -- and have kept several law firms in business. Now, it's all smiles and pats on the back.

Arum, who never met a fight he couldn't spin into a tale of monumental significance, said that this fight would be a success even though, with Pacquiao from the Philippines and Hatton from England, there is no U.S. angle.

"Americans are not xenophobic," Arum proclaimed.

One wonders how that quote will play in France.

Eventually, because it apparently wasn't preventable, Hatton's trainer, Floyd Mayweather Sr., was called to the microphone. He, like Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, is a former boxer. Each has accepted more than his share of blows to the head over the years, but only Roach admits that.

From the start of this promotion, months ago, they have been verbally battling. Mayweather Sr. likes to call Roach "the joke coach," and Roach likes to remind Mayweather Sr. that he got a head start on Mayweather in training careers because Mayweather was in prison for selling drugs.

What is beyond the borders of good taste elsewhere is standard fare in boxing.

This time, Mayweather Sr. tried some poetry.

"Pac-man, it's over. So stop wishing on that four-leaf clover."

"Ain't no secret. I hope you know. It's Hit Man Hatton by KO."

Roach took the microphone and wished the Hatton camp luck.

Mark Taffet, making the mandatory HBO speech (remember, pay per view, $49.95. Sign up now), gave both trainers a cleverly phrased boost.

"They are two men who are legendary in their ability to walk the walk," he said. "Now, their walk is exceeded only by their ability to talk the talk."

Taffet then announced that HBO's Pacquiao/Hatton 24/7, a new art form best described as advertising documentary, will do 24/7 Overtime Friday night. That will feature Jim Lampley interviewing Roach and Mayweather Sr., all three sitting in the ring at the MGM Grand.

Pray for Lampley.

Somewhere along the line, Arum introduced a member of Pacquiao's entourage. Before another Pacquiao fight, Arum had introduced a high-ranking Philippine official as "Governor what's-his-name." This time, he called Wacky Salud to the microphone.

Wacky was up for about a minute. He wore dark glasses and spoke in a deep gravely voice. His words appeared to be English. If this hadn't been a boxing news conference, it could have passed as an audition for a mafia movie.

Arum wrapped up the program by reminding all of how Pacquiao came from "abject poverty," and how he often sits outside his home in General Santos City and hands out food and money to people in need.

"The Philippines has the best social welfare system in the world," Arum proclaimed. "And it is called Manny Pacquiao."

The whole thing took a little more than an hour. It was jaw-dropping. It always is.

Source: http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-dwyre-pacquiao30-2009apr30,1,515202.column

Rhymes and reason for Pacquiao-Hatton

2009-04-30T16:24:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS – Boxing news conferences aren’t known to produce rhyme or reason, but there was both Wednesday. Floyd Mayweather Sr. brought the rhymes. Everybody else brought reasons for picking Manny Pacquiao or liking Ricky Hatton Saturday night at the MGM Grand in a junior-welterweight fight marketed as timeless, yet also significant for what it says about the game’s immediate pay-per-view prospects in the post-Oscar De La Hoya era.

“It’s over, so quit wishing on a four-leaf clover,’9 Mayweather, Hatton’s trainer, said to Pacquiao in nonsensical verse that was entertaining and century or so beyond Rudyard Kipling.

If Mayweather has never heard of Kipling, he is not alone. Kipling’s name gets an occasional mention in English Lit. But at a boxing news conference, Kipling might as well be a great American heavyweight. He doesn’t exist anymore, or at least he hasn’t until Professors Bob Arum, Pacquiao’s promoter, and Richard Schaefer, of Golden Boy Promotions, borrowed from Kipling’s 19th century verse on Afghanistan and named the fight, The Battle Of East & West.

The battle between Pacquiao, a Filipino, and Hatton, a Brit, promises to be a lot less poetic. Punches don’t rhyme. They damage and disable.

“So I hope you know, Hitman Hatton by KO,’’ Mayweather, trainer-turned-bard, said as he concluded a routine that started with another salvo at Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach.
“Joke Coach Roach, or should I call you cockroach?’’ Mayweather said.

By now, Roach has heard it all, or at least most of it. Still, there are times when Roach admits that the the well-rehearsed routine angers him.

“Yeah, sometimes it gets to me,’’ Roach said after the news conference.

It sounded as if Wednesday might have been one of those times. Unlike Mayweather, however, Roach didn’t need a rhyme or Kipling to express himself. He was blunt, which is what he expects Pacquiao’s punches to be in what he says will be a stoppage of Hatton. Roach ripped Mayweather for not doing his job. In training camp, Roach said Mayweather has been late to a Hatton workout.
“He show s up late for eight rounds of sparring before a world championship fight,’’ Roach said. “That’s sickening. I’m not ever going to show up late for any of Manny’s workouts. Never.’’

The unabridged trash-talk is the fight within the fight. Mayweather and Roach continue to get much attention as Hatton and Pacquiao. From Mayweather’s perspective, it’s schtick, a lousy lounge act. But Roach isn’t always laughing. It is hard to say what the sideshow will do to the respective fighters. The quiet, yet charismatic Pacquiao says little, so it virtually impossible to get read on what he thinks of Mayweather.

But don’t be fooled by Mayweather’s clowning, says De La Hoya, Hatton’s promoter, who was trained by both.

“Strategy-wise, Floyd is more technically-sound,’’ said De La Hoya, who a few weeks ago announced his retirement after deliberating his future in the wake of his devastating loss in to Pacqu iao in December. “He’s crazy, but from-round-to-round, Floyd knows what he is doing.’’

If Roach’s confident assessment is accurate, however, Mayweather might need to be a magician in addition to master tactician for Hatton to have a chance against the left-handed Pacquiao. In Pacquiao, Roach says he simply has the better, more complete fighter. In the eight years that Roach has been the Filipino’s trainer, Pacquiao has matured with the slow, yet steady addition of skill, especially over the last two years. A more versatile Pacquiao with defensive ability was especially evident in an understated, yet significant decision over Marco Antonio Barrera in a 2007 rematch.

Hatton has been with Mayweather for only one fight – an 11th-round stoppage of Paulie Malignaggi last November. Mayweather says he has re-created Hatton, turning him into a more complete boxer instead of a brawler. At some point, however, Hatton will revert to the brawling style that has defined him, says Roach.

“The first time Hatton gets hit, he is going to move forward,’’ Roach said. “…He is a good fighter, but not a great fighter. He can’t deal with southpaws and Manny’s kind of speed.

Hatton didn’t hear Roach’s dim evaluation of skill that doesn’t seem to leave him with only a puncher’s chance at an upset. Then again, Hatton has read and heard pretty much the same thing throughout the media.

“I think you’ve made your mind up already,’’ Hatton told a ballroom full of journalists. “The fat, beer-drinking Englishman is going to have to shock the world again.’’

NOTES, QUOTES & ODDSERVATIONS

Pacquiao’s mom, Dionisia was introduced at the news conference. She has never watched her son fight from a ringside seat. She might not this time. She said she plans to stay in her room at Mandalay Bay, where Pacquiao always stays in Las Vegas. Through an interpreter, she said she plans to pray throughout the bout.

· In a visit to Hatton’s Manchester, Hatton’s hometown in the UK, De La Hoya said he was amazed to see the British junior-welterweight attract a crowd of 60,000. De La Hoya tried to compare that to a night when he fought in front 45,000 in El Paso, Tex. “Most of them were women,’’ De La Hoya joked.

· Arum loves to talk about Pacquiao’s generosity. A big percentage of his money is invested in Filipino classrooms, hospitals and the poor, according to Arum. “The Philippines hav e the best social system in the world and it’s called Manny Pacquiao,’’ he said.

· Bernard Hopkins, a De La Hoya partner in Golden Promotions, says Pacquiao’s success could be his undoing. Marvin Hagler once said it was hard to get up at dawn and run after sleeping in silk sheets. Years later, Fernando Vargas said it was tough to be a fighter when you could afford silk underwear. “I guarantee you, Pacquiao has some upgraded underwear,’’ Hopkins said. “That’s probably going to play a role in the fight. It’s very hard to fight poor when you’re rich.”

Source: http://www.15rounds.com/rhymes-and-reason-for-pacquiao-hatton-042909/

Hatton and the pound-for-pound crown: Does it fit?

2009-04-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton talked about it before his fight against and loss to then-pound-for-pound ruler Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2007. He's talking about it now, as we are right around 72 hours away from Hatton and current P4P champ Manny Pacquiao taking to the squared circle to settle their business.

Hatton, who has been the lineal champion at 140 pounds since beating Kostya Tszyu in 2005 and also has won a debated alphabet title at 147 pounds, wants to be known as boxing's best. The man at the top of the pound-for-pound ranks. The king of kings.

Some people go to great lengths in attempting to describe what "pound-for-pound" is supposed to mean, but all it was ever really meant to tell folks was who was the best fighter in the world, regardless of weight. It's not about how many weight classes you can succeed in -- just who "the man" really is, regardless of weight. It has often been said that Sugar Ray Robinson, the great middleweight and welterweight champion often recognized as boxing's pound-for-pound all-time greatest fighter, was the man for whom the tag was created. All it meant was that Ray was the best.

I've said a few times in passing that just because Hatton thinks that beating Pacquiao would make him the best in the sport, it doesn't really mean it's true. Pacquiao's title as P4P king is not something "real" -- it has been assigned by the vast majority of fans, boxing journalists, and those within the sport. Pacquiao is recognized as the best, a distinction he has earned.

But now that we get close to fight night, something does occur to me: If Ricky Hatton beats Manny Pacquiao convincingly, knocks him out or dominates him (unlikely as anyone thinks either result to be), does he have a great case to take over that spot?

The more I think about it, yes, he does. He would be the first man to get a win over Pacquiao since Erik Morales in 2005. Since then, Pacquiao has twice stopped Morales, smoked Marco Antonio Barrera, beaten Juan Manuel Marquez in one of the decade's great fights, retired Oscar de la Hoya, and destroyed credible if not great foes in David Diaz, Oscar Larios, Hector Velazquez and Jorge Solis. Since that loss to Morales, he's really only even been so much as tested by Marquez and Morales (in their second fight). Everyone else he has creamed as he's improved and gotten better and better, seemingly by the fight.

You'd also have to look over Hatton's record. There are good wins there, and the win over Tszyu has been discredited to an absurd degree by many, in my opinion. Kostya was not the washed-up old man some have made him out to be, in one of those boxing legends that gains momentum and just becomes accepted as fact when really it has developed into near-folklore, like the night Barrera made Hamed miss every punch he threw and beat him every moment of the bout. Juan Urango, Paulie Malignaggi, Jose Luis Castillo, Luis Collazo, Carlos Maussa, Michael Stewart, Carlos Vilches, Vince Phillips, etc. -- sure, not the most glamorous list of victims ever, but good fighters all of them.

His record right now also reveals one other thing: Who's he ever lost to? Mayweather, and that's it. Yeah, it was pretty convincing, but a big win for Hatton over Pacquiao makes two things happen: It makes Ricky look better, and it makes Floyd look even better.

The idea that Pacquiao is so far out of his weight class doesn't strike me as important anymore. I was shocked at how fit, lean, and strong he looked at 147 pounds. If there was an ounce of fat on him that night you'd have never known it. At 140, he's actually got a bigger reach than Ricky and is all of an inch shorter. I've already said it once, and I'm glad more people are starting to say it here and elsewhere, but Ricky doesn't have any big physical advantage in this fight. He appears to be the stronger man because he fights (historically, anyway) in a manner befitting a bull in a china shop. He's a rugged fighter who (historically, anyway) fights from his ass up to his shoulders.

But is he really a bigger puncher? No. Is he a bigger man? Not really. Hatton walks around (historically, anyway) between 170 and 180 pounds, but that's never been healthy weight by boxer standards. Pacquiao walks around at 155 pounds or so, supposedly, because he takes better care of himself in between fights.

Physically, I really feel the fight is even. Had Hatton been the sort of fitness freak that many fighters are, he probably could've made featherweight. Instead he's fought at 140 his entire career, save for two fights at 147.

So there's no pure, base physical advantage or disadvantage in my mind. Ricky's only loss came to one of the generation's greats, and now he's got the guts to be a real champion, put his money and his legacy where his heart lies, and fight another pound-for-pound top dog.

If Ricky Hatton is able to shock a lot of people and turn in some kind of dominant, clear-cut win performance on Saturday night, he's got his case as boxing's current king.

Other contenders, should Hatton beat Manny:

* Juan Manuel Marquez, the lightweight world champion who is rumored to be stepping up to a catchweight below 145 pounds for a fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr., who would also come back into the conversation should he return and beat Marquez.
* 44-year old light heavyweight Bernard Hopkins, though I would hesitate to put him in the top spot simply because he's a once a year fighter that may or may not take on a top opponent sometime soon. Had a deal been reached for Adamek-Hopkins, he's even more in the mix than he already is.
* Welterweight titlist Shane Mosley, who rocketed back up the ranks when he beat the plaster out of Antonio Margarito in January. Sadly, Mosley's career is essentially on hold for the time being as he waits for an opponent. He wanted Mayweather, but he's not going to get him.
* Paul Williams -- he's gotten that good. In the last 10 months he has legit wins at 147 (Carlos Quintana), 154 (Verno Phillips) and 160 (Winky Wright). At 27, Williams is by far the youngest fighter in the running.

This will all only really matter if Hatton can deliver that W over Manny, though. If he doesn't but looks great in a loss, he might climb on the Bad Left Hook P4P list (he's No. 13 right now) anyway. He's also ranked No. 8 by Ring Magazine and No. 12 by Dan Rafael of ESPN.com.

What's really important, though, more than the P4P talk or anything else, is this: These two guys are among the best in the world, and they're going to go at it. They're not dancers, they're not runners, they're not boring. They're fighters. They're fighters who are coming to fight, and both of them are going into what will be one of the biggest tests of their careers.

Source: http://www.badlefthook.com/2009/4/30/859732/hatton-and-the-pound-for-pound

Pacquiao's popularity getting bigger as Hatton fight looms

2009-04-30T16:22:00.000-07:00

To understand exactly who Manny Pacquiao is requires deeper inspection than simply calling him the best pound-for-pound fighter today.

While he's the first Filipino athlete to appear on a postage stamp in his country, he's also a virtual lock to win a congressional seat in the Philippines when he runs next year. On Friday, when the next issue of Time magazine hits the stands, Pacquiao is listed as one of the world's 100 most influential athletes.

Saturday, when he meets junior welterweight champion Ricky Hatton in the first major pay-per-view bout of the year (HBO PPV, 9 p.m. ET, $49.99), he could solidify his position as the best fighter of his era as he goes for a record fourth lineal world title after becoming the champion at flyweight (112), featherweight (126) and junior lightweight (130). He's also held major belts at junior featherweight (122) and lightweight (135).

"He transcends just an Asian fighter," says boxing historian Bert Sugar. "He's a great fighter."

It's an accomplishment that once seemed unreachable when Pacquiao — who grew up in squalor, living in housing made of cardboard — began his career in 1995 at 106 pounds, even though he won his first world championship three years later.

He didn't appear to be special. He had only four knockouts in his first 11 fights, and he was knocked out twice on singular body shots as a flyweight.

"When I lost before," Pacquiao says, "I lost because I couldn't make my fighting weight. I was too dehydrated."

As he added pounds, Pacquiao morphed into a fighting machine, dubbed the "Mexican Assassin" after toppling the holy trinity of boxing's featherweight and lightweight divisions — Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales and Juan Manuel Marquez.

Barrera was considered the best pound-for-pound fighter, with Morales and Marquez not far behind.

All three are future Hall of Famers, but Pacquiao fought each at least twice, going 5-1-1 and scoring 11 knockdowns. Pacquiao is the only boxer to knock out Barrera and Morales.

Pacquiao also became the first fighter to stop Oscar De La Hoya below the middleweight division. In the highest profile victory of his career in December, Pacquiao battered The Golden Boy into submission after the eighth round.

As a result, he comes into Saturday's bout with Hatton as the favorite, although the Englishman is undefeated at 140 pounds, where he has been champion since 2005.

"The pressure is there and it is big, but I don't want to put that in my mind," says Pacquiao, whose trainer, Freddie Roach, has predicted a third-round knockout. "I don't want to think about that.

"Ricky Hatton is a different kind of fighter than I have ever fought before. The style of Ricky Hatton is not easy. He is a good fighter, and a strong fighter."

It took 34 fights before Pacquiao burst onto the American scene in 2001.

He was a big underdog against Lehlo Ledwaba — a junior featherweight beltholder who was being bred for stardom in the loaded 122- to 126-pound classes— but Pacquiao was too fast and too strong in his first fight under Roach.

Pacquiao, a southpaw who took the fight on just two weeks notice when Ledwaba's original opponent fell out, busted the South African's nose in the first round and finished him with a series of straight lefts in the sixth.

Proving that his victory wasn't a fluke, Pacquiao cleaned out boxing's most competitive division (126) for the past decade, triumphing where Latinos, especially Mexicans, had dominated.

"It's definitely unique. He carries his weight very well," says Shane Mosley, a three-division world champion who climbed from lightweight to junior middle (154). "His power stays around because his legs are big."

Last year alone, Pacquiao won fights in three weight classes. The Marquez win made him the lineal champion at junior lightweight, he won a share of the lightweight crown by knocking out David Diaz three months later, and six months after that he stopped De La Hoya.

Even Hatton can't deny the magnitude of such a feat. "That's incredible, bearing in mind the weight he's fighting at now. It's an absolutely unbelievable achievement," Hatton says. "From where Manny started to where he won his last world title, that is more impressive (than what I've done)."

Plenty of exceptional fighters have risen in weight only to falter. One of the most glaring examples is Alexis Arguello, a classic boxer-puncher who ruled between 126 and 135 pounds from 1974-82. But when Arguello moved up to 140, he lacked the firepower to hold off Aaron Pryor.

More recently, two-division lineal champion Felix Trinidad, the first to defeat De La Hoya in a welterweight unification bout in 1999 and undefeated between 147-154 pounds, rose to 160-170 where his two-fisted power hasn't been nearly as lethal. He's 3-3 there.

As a lightweight, Mosley won all 31 fights and 29 inside the distance for a 94% knockout rate. In the 20 fights he's had since, between 147 and 154 pounds, his KO percentage has fallen to 50.

"It's a little different for Pacquiao. Pacquiao is a little more amazing in that he can still be competitive with all this extra weight. That's remarkable. I kept my power at '47, but at '54 I lost a little bit."

Pacquiao insists that the argument over size or who'll be strongest is overblown. "Boxing is (about) more than hitting," he says. "It is using your mind, and being quick is very important."

Bob Arum, chairman of Top Rank Inc., which promotes Pacquiao, expects him to fight once more this year — provided he wins Saturday — and a bout in early 2010 before the fighter campaigns in June for a congressional seat in the Philippines. Arum recently had dinner with Imelda Marcos, the country's former first lady.

"They hope even if he's elected to Congress that he will continue boxing," Arum says.

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/sports/boxing/2009-04-29-pacquiao-popularity_N.htm

Exclusive Interview: IBF/IBO flyweight World Champion Nonito Donaire

2009-04-30T16:21:00.000-07:00

8CountNews.com caught up with the current IBF/IBO flyweight world champion Nonito Donaire and got his thoughts on his recent title defense against Raul Martinez. Nonito put his belts on the line in front of his homeland fans in The Philippines, and he didn't let anyone down. The flyweight sensation dominated Martinez, and got out of their with a very impressive 4th round TKO.

Nonito tells 8CN that he is looking forward to getting back into the ring soon, and would very much like a rematch against Vic Darchinyan. It was back in July of 2007 when Nonito put Darchinyan to sleep, and the fans have been calling for a rematch ever since. As of right now it doesn't appear as if Darchinyan promoter Gary Shaw is showing any interest in making this one happen, so although Donaire would love the rematch, he makes it clear that he's not playing games and is ready to move on to other champions.

In this exclusive 8CN podcast, Donaire talks about possible future opponents, and also gives us his thoughts on the May 2nd showdown between Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton. Don't miss what else the world champ had to say.

Source: http://www.8countnews.com/news/125/ARTICLE/1559/2009-04-29.html

How might Hatton conquer Pacman?

2009-04-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

Houston, Texas - What might be junior welterweight champion Ricky Hatton's game plan against Manny Pacquiao in their showdown in Las Vegas this May 2nd? To be sure, trainer Floyd Mayweather, Sr. has thought long and hard over what can be effective strategies against the Pacman.

We ask Houston-based boxers and trainer on how they would approach the fight if they were facing the Filipino icon.

Alfonso Lopez (undefeated Texas Super Middleweight Champion)

Hometown: Corpus Christi, Texas

* I think this is going to be an excellent fight. Hatton could probably pull off a decision.
* He has to get Pacquiao moving backwards. Manny gets defensive when he is moving backwards. And he only punches when he is stepping forward.
* Hatton needs to take it to Pacquiao. Ricky needs to square up a little but more, and take his right hand out to Manny.
* He'll need to rough him up and push him around. Doing so allows Hatton to wear down his opponent down the stretch. That will not be easy to do for Ricky. Manny is in great shape, and is always in great shape."

Larry Pryor (Light Heavyweight Boxer)

Hometown: Washington D.C. (currently based in Houston, Texas)

* Pacquiao should be able to stop Hatton in the seventh or eight round.
* To beat Manny, Hatton would have to be a great counter-puncher on Saturday night.
* Hatton will be a different strategy in order to defeat Pacquiao. The Brit will have to tie up Manny. Immediately after breaks from the referee, Hatton can throw his combinations.
* Hatton will need to attack Pacquiao early, and inflict blows on his body. He'll have to earn Manny's respect. That will be a tough task for Hatton because Manny is both a boxer and a brawler.

Felix Ramirez (Houston-based Trainer)

* I'm going to go out on a limb and say that Ricky Hatton will win the fight. He is much smarter than before and improved on his boxing ability. He is close to his prime, and is naturally at 140lbs. He is the bigger and stronger fighter.
* Hatton needs to be careful with the explosive Pacquiao. He'll have to make Manny miss a lot of his punches. When Pacquiao is not set, that is when Hatton needs to attack.
* Ricky needs to be overly aggressive in this fight. We have two guys with the same abilities. The bigger and stronger guy will win. Freddie Roach has not fixed Manny Pacquiao's flaws: he is not able to handle counter-punchers. The stronger Hatton can knock Pacquiao out of balance.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-4514-Houston-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m4d29-How-do-you-beat-Manny-Pacquiao

Hatton vs. Pacquiao to explode, says Khan

2009-04-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS (Reuters) - Olympic silver medallist Amir Khan has predicted a volatile, high quality contest when his compatriot Ricky Hatton defends his IBO light-welterweight title against Filipino Manny Pacquiao on Saturday.

The 22-year-old has huge respect for both fighters and has regularly sparred with Pacquiao at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Los Angeles where they share the same trainer, Freddie Roach.

"This fight is going to be explosive," Khan told Reuters at the MGM Grand Hotel on Tuesday. "You've got two great fighters at the peak and the prime of their career.

"I think it's going to be all about who can get who first, who settles down in the fight quicker and the best man is going to win."

Khan, who will have his first crack at a world title when he takes on Andreas Kotelnik of Ukraine for the WBA world light-welterweight belt in June, said it was a shame two great fighters had to face each other.

"They could be great fighters in different weights," said Khan, lightweight silver medallist at the 2004 Athens Games.

"But what a fight it's going to be for the crowd. I think we are all going to be on the edge of our seats. I can't wait for it."

"Manny has got speed, Hatton has got power ... Manny has got great footwork, Hatton is very good at cutting (off) the ring. It's going to be very explosive."

ROACH PREDICTION

Khan disagreed, however, with his trainer Roach's forecast, that former four-division world champion Pacquiao would beat Hatton in three rounds.

"I think he's probably just saying three rounds as a mess-around," said Khan (21-1-0), who has fought mainly in the lightweight division.

"If there is going to be a stoppage from either fighter, I think it will be in the later rounds. It won't be early.

"This fight is going to be explosive and if it does go to 12 rounds, both fighters are going to be in pain the next day. I know that for a fact."

Although Hatton has established a reputation for being a brawler more than a boxer, Khan believes the Briton has become much more astute in the ring since linking up with seasoned trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. last year.

"I think Ricky has improved in that area," Khan said. "He is thinking more about what he throws and he's a pressure fighter. He has improved big-time on that."

Source: http://uk.reuters.com/article/sportsNews/idUKTRE53T0CM20090430

Pedro Fernandez's avatar HATTON HAS “LEARNED” TO FIGHT BLACK

2009-04-30T16:18:00.001-07:00

HATTON FIGHTING LIKE A BLACK YANK!

Las Vegas, NV- When you try and analyze fighters from different ethnic groups, as well as regions, “race” means a lot. That being fact, World 140 lb. king Ricky Hatton, when he turned professional, the “Hitman” was your typical English brawler. That being said, the addition of Floyd Mayweather Sr. as Hatton’s trainer has instilled some blackness in his boxing style.

RICKY NO LONGER A “CRUDE” WHITE BOY

Relying on brute strength, Hatton, exceptionally big for a jr. welterweight, prior to Mayweather Sr., he simply bored into opposition like a goring bull. His shortcomings were illustrated in both the controversial win over Luis Collazo, and in his lone loss against his trainer’s son Floyd Jr.

WHITE FOLKS UPSET ALREADY!

Now for a lot of you that lack boxing acumen, you’re already calling me racist! But if you had spent a little bit of time in a racially mixed, preferably inner city, boxing gym, you’d realize I’m just keeping it real!

MAYWEATHER SR. BRING LOTS TO DANCE

The elder Mayweather, a fair fighter in his day, he can teach a fighter slick footwork, how to throw combinations, a better stance, and with all that and Floyd comes attitude! All this does not bode well for Manny Pacquiao. The Pacman, no longer fighting at an optimum weight at 130-135 lbs, this bout at 140 could spell doom for the Filipino phenomenon.

NO BLACK FACE MAKE UP NEEDED!

Especially when you look at Hatton in the gym. If Ricky wasn’t as white as snow, you’d be under the impression that he has been transformed into a slick fighter of African ilk. Not only has Mayweather taught Hatton how to fight black, Ricky now carries himself in a much, more confident manner than in the past.

DO YOU LIKE BETTING THE UNDERDOG?

In closing, if Hatton can fight both black and stay in that mode, then it will be extremely hard for Manny Pacquiao to do anything other than swinging for the fences, something that will leave him open to hard-hitting retaliation from Britain’s Hitman. Right now, Hatton looks like a good bet at +$225!

Source: http://ringtalk.com/index.php?action=fullnews&showcomments=1&id=2452

Full line-up for Pacquiao vs. Hatton

2009-04-30T16:17:00.001-07:00

Eleven bouts and 82 rounds are on tap for Saturday night’s card headlining Manny Pacquiao (48-3-2, 35 KOs) vs. Ricky Hatton (45-1, 32 KOs). In the co-main, Humberto Soto (47-7-2, 30 KOs), of Los Mochis, Mexico, defends his WBC super featherweight belt against Benoit Gaudet (20-1, 7 KOs), of Quebec, Canada. The line-up also includes: Daniel Jacobs (15-0, 14 KOs), of Brooklyn, vs. Chicago’s Michael Walker (19-1-2, 12 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight bout; Russian Matt Korobov (4-0, 4 KOs) vs. Las Vegas’ Rodrigo Aguiar (5-4, 3 KOs), four rounds at middleweight; Erislandy Lara (4-0, 3 KOs), of Cuba, vs. Chris Gray (11-7, 1 KO), of Baton Rouge, La., four at jr. middle; Matthew Hatton (35-4-1, 13 KOs), brother to Ricky, of Manchester, England, takes on Ernesto Zepeda (39-11-4, 34 KOs), of Tijuana, Mexico, in an eight-rounder; undefeated Mike Alvarado (25-0, 18 KOs), of Denver, will go ten at jr. welter with Joaquin Gallardo (18-7-1, 5 KOs), of Oakland, Calif.; Abner Mares (17-0, 10 KOs), of Montebello, Calif., goes eight at bantam with Jonathan Perez (14-5, 11 KOs), of Colombia; Bernabe Concepcion (28-1-1, 17 KOs), of the Philippines, vs. Yogli Herrera (21-8, 15 KOs), of Columbia, eight rounds at lightweight; England’s Joe Murray (1-0) vs. Missael Nunez (4-7-2) of Los Angeles, four at feather; and, in a four-round jr. welter bout, Omar Chavez (14-0-1, 10 KOs) will take on Tyler Ziolowski (11-6, 6 KOs).

Source: http://www.fightnews.com/?p=10215

PACQUIAO VS. HATTON FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

2009-04-30T16:15:00.000-07:00

"I am ready for the fight on Saturday. I know Ricky Hatton has trained hard for this fight. I have seen it on 24/7.

"I respect Ricky Hatton. He is a good person. He is a nice guy and I would like to remind everyone that there is nothing personal for this fight and we are just doing our job to give a good fight to the people and make them happy.

"Specifically to the Filipino people who are looking for a victory on Saturday, I will do my best to bring honor to our country.

"I would like to especially like to thank my wife Jinkee and my Mom, who is here for the first time watching one of my fights live.

"My last fight was impressive, I won money."

RICKY HATTON

"I think you have all made your mind up already. I have been reading what you have been saying and what everyone has been saying. That doesn't scare me. I have been here before. I have been the underdog before.

"I hear what you say. 'He is an over-hyped, over-protected, fat beer drinking Englishman. Guess what...that "he" is going to shock the world again.

"It doesn't scare me being in this position. This is my weight division, but I understand that I am the underdog. I understand why people are picking on me especially since Manny Pacquiao is the number one pound for pound fighter in the world who just had an exceptional win over Oscar.

"They call this the Battle of East and West. And our worlds will collide in the ring on Saturday night."

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao's Trainer

"I've got the best fighter.

"Manny is in the greatest shape of his life.

"I've been telling Manny all along that I will be disappointed if the fight goes longer than three rounds."

FLOYD MAYWEATHER SR, Hatton's Trainer

Mayweather Original Poem
I am being for real and saying what I feel,
This is the truest quote that I ever wrote,
From the first to the last note,
Hey Pac,
Its over, so quit wishing on a four leaf clover,
You got a choice to make,
You're at the cross roads,
You gotta make up your mind,
You can go right or you can go left,
And you can't depend on nobody else,
We need to do what we need to do
It ain't personal between me and you,
Come May 2nd, you will be uncrowned with your head hanging down,
The pain and stress left to confess that the Hitman's the best,
So lets make it simple and plain after this fight, Pac will never be the same,
It aint no diggity it aint no doubt, Pac's gonna find out what its all about,
When he beat the ole legend Oscar de la Hoya,
He was over the hill,
Now its time for you to swallow the same damn pill,
So get your tickets now peoples-and lets make it clear,
That the Pacman ass woopin is almost here,
It aint no secret and I hope you know,
The Hitman Hatton by KO!

BOB ARUM, Chairman of Top Rank Inc.

"You're going to find that our camp is a little more restrained. Just remember, Freddie Roach, Manny's trainer, is training the future president of the Philippines.

"He (Roach) is the best trainer in the sport of boxing, more than just that, there has to be a great bond between a trainer and fighter and that is not something that comes into effect with one training period. It is built up over the years as they go into battle together time after time after time.

"People wonder why this fight is becoming the success that it is. I think there is one reason that has made this the event that it is and that is that people have learned about Manny Pacquiao.

"The Philippines has the best social welfare system in the world and it is called Manny Pacquiao."

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, President of Golden Boy Promotions

"Ricky Hatton against Manny Pacquiao; I know for a fact this fight is going to exceed all expectations.

"I have talked to people all over the country and the fact is that people want to watch this fight not because of the fighters' abilities, not because they can fight and have come to give fans an exciting fight, but because of respect. People respect what Pacquiao and Hatton can do in the ring.

"That's why people are going to watch this fight, because they respect both of these fighters and they know they are going to see a great great match.

"We are very proud to be a part of such a mega event that is not just big in the Philippines, not just big in Manchester, but big all around the world."
# # #

Pacquiao vs. Hatton "The Battle of East and West," presented by Rockstar Energy Drink and promoted by Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions, in association with MP Promotions and Hatton Promotions, is a 12-round bout for Hatton's IBO and Ring Magazine World Junior Welterweight titles. The fight is also sponsored by Cerveza Tecate and Southwest Airlines. Mandalay Bay, The Mirage, TI, Monte Carlo, Circus Circus, Luxor and New York-New York will host closed circuit viewing and tickets are available for purchase and are priced at $50, not including handling fees. All seats are general admission and are now on sale at each individual property's box office outlets or by phone with a major credit card at (866) 799-7711. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

The Pacquiao vs. Hatton pay-per-view telecast, beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, has a suggested retail price of $49.95, will be produced and distributed by HBO Pay-Per-View and will be available to more than 71 million pay-per-view homes. The telecast will be available in HD-TV for those viewers who can receive HD. HBO Pay-Per-View is the leading supplier of event programming to the pay-per-view industry. For Pacquiao vs. Hatton fight week updates, log on to www.hbo.com.

HBO Sports' all-access reality series "PACQUIAO/HATTON 24/7" will premiere episode #4 in HD on Friday, May 1 at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT. Episodes #1, 2 & 3 will be replayed consecutively prior to the finale, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO on Friday night. The first three episodes are also available on HBO ON DEMAND.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-23881.html

TIDBITS AND PHOTOS FROM THE PACQUIAO-HATTON LAS VEGAS PRESSCON

2009-04-30T16:10:00.000-07:00

Las Vegas, NV:- Top Rank and Golden Boy Promotions, the twin promoters for Saturday’s “East meets West” fight card featuring the Filipino spitfire, Manny Pacquiao and the Brit hitman, Ricky Hatton held their final press con today at the famed MGM Grand Casino Resort.

True to tradition, the international media was treated with a sumptuous lunch prior to the introduction of the combatants and select members of their entourage. Needless to say, the media people gathered were again impressed by the way they were treated by the promoters. More than a hundred of them showed up including the top echelon of the Philippine media scene.

For whatever it is worth, it was interesting to note that s seat with a nameplate was reserved for former Governor Chavit Singson on the Team Pacquiao side. But, Singson was late so he did not get to occupy the seat. Pacquiao close confidant, Wakee Salud was at the head table as well and he was even given a few minutes to comment by Bob Arum. Pacquiao’s mother Dionisia was there too seated at the special section for guests and non-media people. And she took in the media attention very well.

At exactly 12:00 noon as promised, the formal conference started with Bob Arum and Oscar de la Hoya exchanging roles as MC’s.

Both fighters were cordial to each other and both exude full confidence in winning.

Pacquiao promised a great fight and so did Hatton. Hatton also indicated that it’s okay by him to be the underdog. “I have been in the same role before”, he said.

The same however cannot be said between Freddie Roach and Floyd Mayweather Sr. The latter was of course again a crowd pleaser with his “poems”. He also called Roach, a “joke Roach”. Roach however just ignored him and simple stated that they trained hard and are ready for Saturday.

Tecate Beer, one of the sponsors announced a special edition of their famous beer from Mexico that shows the faces of Pacquiao and Hutton.

The fight is on Saturday and Bob Arum indicated that its “sold-out” but some seats are still available on the PPV large screens in different hotels along the strip.

The weigh –in is tomorrow (Friday at 3:00PM) and it is open to the public. It will held at the MGM Garden Arena.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-23880.html

PACQUIAO WATCH: Hatton will fall like the London bridge

2009-04-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

NOT to disparage the Englishman but comes Sunday Manila time, he will meet is match and get outclassed in the weight he believes he is the king.

If Paul Malignaggi was the barometer of speed when Hatton claims he can outbox a foxy opponent, then he is dead wrong.

Malignaggi was quick but was not speedy.

The guy whom he beat by TKO in the 11th round on November 22 last year is not in the class of Filipino terror-in-the-ring Manny Pacquiao.

Malignaggi was quick with his feet and hands but he does not possess the leverage and power of Pacquiao.

So many of Manny’s past opponents have belittled his speed and punching power until they come across him atop the ring.

Hatton is falling into the same false sense of confidence.

Manny does not dance around like Malignaggi and the Englishman’s lone tormentor Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Manny jackrabbits his pace and has a rear gear as fast as his top speed.

He will soon find that out on Sunday.

Unless Hatton possesses the same guile and speed of hands as Juan Marquez does, he will realize that Pacquiao is not an easy target to hit bullseye.

Manny is not a stationary target as the dart board in Hatton’s renowned pub house in Manchester, England.

Manny does not come at him straight forward as an orthodox power puncher.

He comes with blinding speed and his punches are as unpredictable as the weather in England.

Manny will not be as intimated as Malignaggi over Hatton’s bullying tactics and vaunted body punches.

Manny knows how to fight bigger opponents as proven in most of his latest victories.

The only guys he ever fought who went up his weight over the last five years were Oscar Larios and Jorge Solis, when Manny has yet to blossom into a complete boxer that he is now.

Don’t ever believe Floyd Mayweather Sr. that he has found the perfect counterfoil to Manny’s unpredictable ways atop the ring.

Remember Erik Morales who said many cannot fight going backwards?

Well, Manny floored him with a left hook while backpedaling and his back against the rope during their grudge fight.

Has anyone ever cornered Manny more than 10 seconds and connected five power punches in a row?

No one.

And Hatton will not likely be the one to do it.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-23878.html

ROACH IMPRESSED BY PACQUIAO PREP

2009-04-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

Freddie Roach believes Manny Pacquiao's perfection in sparring can translate to a knockout success over Ricky Hatton on Saturday night.

Filipino Pacquiao (48-3-2, 36 KOs) faces Britain's Hatton (45-1, 32 KOs) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in a light-welterweight contest for the Englishman's IBO and Ring Magazine titles.

According to his trainer, as boxing's pound-for-pound best fighter prepares to continue where he left off with a resounding welterweight victory over Oscar De la Hoya last December, he has been looking in his finest form yet during his final sparring session at Roach's Wild Card Gym in Hollywood, California.

"He's been the best I've ever seen him in training camp," Roach said.

"He was so sharp. Everything we worked on for the game plan just happened.

"He fought like four perfect rounds, just like I expected him to do in the fight.

"It was really good to see, I was so happy. He came back to the corner, I gave him a drink of water and I didn't even have to say anything to him.

"I just said 'You looked pretty good Manny'," Roach recalled with a laugh.

"That was about it."

That, said Roach, does not bode well for Hatton, whom he expects will be a game and valiant loser.

"I'm very confident in my guy but Ricky will try. He'll still get knocked out but he'll get knocked out trying."

Roach said Pacquiao was in the best shape of his life as he prepared to fight at 130lbs for just the third time in his long career.

"This is the best he's looked," the trainer said.

"There's one thing about Manny Pacquiao, the weight issue. Making weight (at 130) was always a struggle. When Manny can't eat he's a miserable person.

"He's nasty, he's not nice to be around and I remember being there with fighters that can't eat.

"Right now, he eats whatever he wants, he will not miss a meal.

"He'll have breakfast before the weigh-in and he'll weigh in at 140lbs and he'll be happy.

"And when Manny's happy, that's when he'll be at his best."

Source: http://www.sportinglife.com/boxing/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=boxing/09/04/29/BOXING_Pacquiao_Roach.html

Manny Pacquiao Ricky Hatton fight has parallels with Pancho Villa and Jimmy Wilde

2009-04-29T16:57:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton, a great British fighter and a Filipino master, meeting on US soil, is not unique. There are parallels, no less, with the fistic frenzy expected of Hatton v Pacquiao at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, on Saturday night.

Back in 1923, a contest took place between two formidable leading prize fighters pertaining from the British and Philippine islands, on neutral ground in the United States. In 1923, 'Pancho Villa' became the first Filipino world champion in history when he defeated Welshman Jimmy Wilde, at flyweight, in 1923, at the Polo Grounds, in New York.

Villa became a national hero, much like Pacquiao is today. What Villa tragically never had, however, was a long enough life to enjoy his successes. Wilde, known as 'The Mighty Atom', was small, pale and frail. But he possessed a hammer of a punch. He had worked in a colliery in the Rhondda Valley as a teenager, crawling into narrow gullies to draw out coal. It is an area where the men smoked 40 cigarettes a day, completed their shifts in the coal mines, and returned to the surface to box and play rugby as a form of rest. Even the voices resound like crushed coal.

Wilde had honed his ring skills in fairground boxing booths. Like his Filipino opponent, his size belied his power and strength. Like Wilde, 'Pancho Villa' - a sobriquet employed by Francisco Guilledo - had taken up boxing in 1917, aged 16. Standing 5ft 1in in his cotton socks, Villa rose to prominence in the sport after the United States army had exported boxing to the Philippines.

On June 18, 1923, at the Polo Grounds in New York, Villa, roared on by over 20,000 spectators knocked Wilde out in the seventh round. Wilde was down three times in the fight [fourth, fifth and seventh rounds], and never fought again.

When Villa secured the world flyweight title in 1923, in defeating Wilde, he was regarded, and still is in many historians' marks, as the greatest Asian fighter in boxing history, with a career record, excepting his 'no contests', of 92 wins (24 KOs), 8 losses, 4 draws. In almost a mirror-image of Pacquiao's 'pauper to prince' life story, Guilledo was born in Ilog, Negros Occidental, the son of a cowhand who abandoned his family when Guilledo was just six months old. He later stowed away on a boat bound for Manila, and began to box.

Villa defended his title several times and never relinquished it until his death just two years later. However, his life was to end very early, tragically, falling into a coma and passing away after a tooth infection. He was 23.

The fighting spirit of the young man who died as world flyweight champion, the first Filipino world champion, lives on today, in the formidable frame of Manny Pacquiao, the world's No 1 pound for pound prize fighter.

Source: http://blogs.telegraph.co.uk/gareth_a._davies/blog/2009/04/29/manny_pacquiao_ricky_hatton_fight_has_parallels_with_pancho_villa_and_jimmy_wilde_

Manny Pacquiao defies pain by sticking to his guns

2009-04-29T16:56:00.000-07:00

Behind the engaging smile of Manny Pacquiao is a man of steely courage. Becoming the best boxer in the world was not something that came easily, because Pacquiao had to work his way up from poverty on the streets of the Philippines and there was plenty of pain and struggle on the way. In fact, pain is something he has learnt to put himself through on a regular basis.

Pacquiao uses his training sessions not just as ways of getting fit and working on his skills and strategy — he uses them as opportunities to endure pain. The more pain he endures in training, he reasons, the less he will feel it in the ring against Ricky Hatton here on Saturday night.

One method that Pacquiao uses to toughen up is being hit by martial arts sticks. In Thailand, kick boxers use them to harden their forearms and shins, but Pacquiao uses them on his torso. “It’s a Thai method of deadening the nerves to take away pain,” Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s trainer, said. “You’re supposed to get used to it [the pain]. They are just pieces of wood. I don’t hit him because I don’t believe in it, but he likes it. One of my guys who learnt it in Thailand does it. It goes on for 20 minutes every other day, on the arms, but mostly the stomach.”

As Pacquiao — who won his first world title at flyweight (8st) but who will face Hatton at light-welterweight (10st) — has moved up the weight divisions, he has had to answer more and more questions about whether he can take punches from bigger boxers. He leaves little to chance.

“Manny got knocked out by a body shot once at 112lb [flyweight],” Roach said. “Since that happened, he works so hard on his body, he makes sure that will never happen again. During sparring, he will put himself on the ropes, lift his arms up and say to the guys, ‘Go to work’, and just let those guys fire off at him. We also do two sets of sit-ups a day, that’s over a thousand motions.”

The confidence surrounding the 30-year-old Pacquiao remains ominous and that has been reflected in the betting here, where the Filipino has been backed down to odds-on that he will beat Hatton inside the distance.

“I’m a believer that speed kills,” Bob Arum, Pacquiao’s veteran promoter, said. “I’ve never seen such a mixture of speed and explosive punching power that Manny has. I think that carries him to victory. The sparring partners he had were top professionals and they couldn’t handle them. Manny just beat the s*** out of them. Ricky Hatton says he’s fast and he is, but his speed is just on a different level to Pacquiao.”

Las Vegas is bracing itself for another invasion of British fans, with Hatton expecting more than 15,000 to come to the city to support him. Saturday’s bout will be Hatton’s fifth in the city in less than 2½ years, but despite a drop in value of the pound against the dollar, as well as the difficult economic climate, the MGM Grand Garden Arena is sold out and venues are setting up closed-circuit screenings all along the Strip.

“When I think of how many people come over to support me, it’s incredible,” Hatton said. “I went to see Paul Williams v Winky Wright [three weeks ago] and there were just 4,000 people there. I think Vegas would have been a dull place without me. The Brits bring a party atmosphere.

“The number of fans won’t beat Floyd Mayweather Jr and there were 35,000 for that one. There were nearly 10,000 for the [Paulie] Malignaggi fight and that was just before Christmas. I think I can double that.”

Source: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/more_sport/boxing/article6194088.ece

Pacquiao fever proving contagious - Las Vegas notes

2009-04-29T16:55:00.000-07:00

Fight week kicked off in Las Vegas as usual with the fighters' arrivals, one of the few opportunities, apart from Friday's weigh-in, for fans to see the two boxers in the flesh. Hatton is based at the MGM Grand, but Pacquiao has set up camp down the road at the Mandalay Bay. And Pacquiao's arrival proved something of a calamity.

When Pacquiao's bus pulled up outside the Mandalay Bay's main lobby, it was immediately engulfed by Pacquiao fans, including the Filipino basketball team, as well as journalists and camera crews. With no roped off area inside the lobby, the swarm of people moved inside while security men tried to keep people back.

After a few minutes, during which it became clear to organisers that the crowds could not be controlled. So Pacquiao and his team, looking like a Pied Piper, and surrounded by the swarm of people, moved through the casino at high speed, eventually arriving at the lifts to the exclusive apartments at the Mandalay Bay, where the doors were shut and two burly security guards refused to let anyone through - media event over.

One journalist who did better than anyone else was Mike Costello, the commentator for Radio 5 Live, who not only got close to Pacquiao, but got into his apartment. Mike managed to get himself to the heart of the media throng in the lobby and when the Pacquiao team began to move off, he was swept along with them.

"I was stuck between some security guards and I think there were some moments when my feet weren't touching the floor," Costello said. "I just got swept along and I ended up in the lift with Pacquiao - I think I was the only no Filipino in there. I was interviewing him right up to when the microwave went off and his soup was ready, so he sat down for lunch."

**********

Talking of Pacquiao fever, the Philippines Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has appealed to dozens of Filipino legislators to abandon plans to visit Las Vegas to cheer for Pacquiao because of the fears of swine flu, which has claimed its first death in the United States. "My personal advice to our congressmen is to postpone their trip until the situation becomes clearer and avoid visiting places close to Mexico," he said. When it comes to Pacquiao, don't expect them to listen.

**********

The betting in Las Vegas has almost entirely been on Pacquiao. Hatton to win is now rated at +230 (that's 2.3/1) from an opening price of +180, while Pacquiao is -270, from an opening of -220. Pacquiao to win by stoppage is now an odds-on shot, seen as 10/13,

Source: http://timesonline.typepad.com/boxing/2009/04/pacquiao-fever-proving-contagious-las-vegas-notes.html

Shane Mosley awaits Pacquiao vs. Hatton winner

2009-04-29T16:53:00.000-07:00

Weltereight champ Shane Mosley and heavyweight star Chris Arreola were at Planet Bar-Rio in Houston on Friday night to attend a local boxing event. A crowded, smoke-filled large bar hosted several boxing matches, with the DJ mixing in songs here and there between fights. That was a new experience . . .

The champ looked great. He has a spring in his step. He was surrounded by autograph and photo-up seekers. He is stalking the winner of Pacquiao vs. Hatton.

T Minus Three Days

T minus three days and counting before the verbal jabs, the critics, media articles, and training make way for the only thing that really matters: Pacquiao and Hatton going on a nasty scrap in the middle of a Vegas ring. Nothing else matters. Not Roach's and Mayweather, Sr's professed disdain for each other. Not the promoters. Not the journalists. Not the hordes of admirers. Not the groupies. Saturday evening, only two boxers matter.

I will be a few rows from both men, in the media section, and surely will be highly attuned to all the movement nuances and body language that occurs in a world championship boxing fight.

Mosley Stalking Pacman vs. Hitman Winner

In an interview with the 13th round, Mosley expressed his desire to fight the winner of Pacquiao vs. Hatton. Such a bout would be a mega event considering Mosley's has earned almost universal praise from boxing and sports fans impressed by his boxing abilities, speed, and power. To be sure, Mosley demolished former champ Antonio Margarito, who previously defeated Miguel Cotto.

Mosley states that Manny Pacquiao is willing to fight him, should the latter win his bout against the Englishman Hatton on May 2nd. I do not believe Bob Arum would ever pit Manny against Mosley, who weighs in during his bouts at 160 lbs, while Manny weighs in at 148 lbs at best.

If Pacquiao does, however, fight Sugar Shane Mosley for a welterweight belt at 147 lbs., and be victorious, that would be an accomplishment that no boxer in history has ever achieved: win titles in four different weight classes from the original eight weight classes.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-4514-Houston-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m4d29-Shane-Mosley-awaiting-Pacquiao-vs-Hatton-winner

Roach dead sure of Pacquiao win

2009-04-29T16:52:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS— THEY’VE WORKED TOGETHER for eight years, but master trainer Freddie Roach continues to be amazed by Manny Pacquiao’s development as a fighter.

After working the mitts with his prized ward, once a one-dimensional heavy hitter who has evolved into the world’s best fighter, at the Wild Card Gym in Hollywood Monday, Roach couldn’t help but feel proud.

“Manny was really, really good today, his focus was beautiful,” said Roach. “That will win us the fight. I just can’t wait for this fight. Hundred percent? Yes.”

Pacquiao and British foe Ricky Hatton made spectacular public arrivals before cheering supporters on Tuesday in Las Vegas (See related story on page A1), starting the countdown for their world junior welterweight title showdown this Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

Roach, a three-time Trainer of the Year, said they have covered all the bases in Pacquiao’s eight-week training camp and have figured out how to systematically bring down Hatton, who is still unbeaten at 140 lb.

“The key to winning this fight is not to go fight him (Hatton) straightforward and fight his fight, to give and take,” Roach told Manila-based sportswriters on Monday.

“Give it to him and take it away. The in-and-out movement and side to side are the keys to this fight. We’ll not fight the typical Pacquiao fight when we go forward. Manny has progressed beyond that. He knows how to fight both ways now.”

According to Roach, Pacquiao will be initiating the moves, but the tempo (of the bout) will be up to Hatton.

“If (Hatton) wants to come forward, we’ll let him come in to our traps,” the trainer said. “If he wants to come, we’ll walk him in.”

Roach also dismissed the notion that the way he and rival trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr. honed their fighters will decide the outcome of the bout projected to make Pacquiao richer by at least $15 million (about P720 million).

“The reason why we will win this fight is because I have the better fighter,” Roach added. “It has nothing to do with the trainers. Sometimes he (Mayweather Sr.) gets under my skin, I’ll talk back because I’m not gonna take it.”

While Roach conceded that Hatton is also in great shape, he still believed Pacquiao will emerge the winner: “When the bell rings, Manny fights. I sit down, it’s up to Manny to win the fight, and I’m sure he’ll do it.”

Roach said Pacquiao will open up right at the opening bell, box Hatton and frustrate him with his speed and footwork.

“If Hatton starts swinging from far away, no problem, Pacquiao will befuddle him with his speed,” Roach said.

Roach said that as soon as Hatton gets hit, Pacquiao will come forward just like he’s trained to do.

When Hatton charges, Roach said they will “keep on blocking the combinations until he’s knocked out.”

NOTES: Among those who tried but failed to come close to Pacquiao during his grand arrival at the Mandalay Bay Hotel were the members of the national team under Yugoslavian mentor Rajko Toroman. The team was led by SBP director Noli Eala... Chris Tiu, Pacquiao’s partner in the television program Pinoy Records on GMA-7, and composer Lito Camo are here to support Pacquiao. The odds of Pacquiao winning by knockout rose to minus 145, meaning a $145 bet will earn just $100.

Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/professional/professional/view/20090429-202210/Roach-dead-sure-of-Pacquiao-win

Pacman mobbed in Vegas

2009-04-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS – Unless they put the Secret Service on him, there’ll be no more grand arrivals in hotel lobbies for Manny Pacquiao.

Bob Arum of Top Rank said that for safety reasons, he’d rather have the extremely popular Filipino boxer just popping out of his hotel room window and waving down at his fans and the media in his future fights.

“This is insane but it’s not surprising. He could have been trampled if we stayed down here,” said Arum after making sure that Pacquiao was in one piece, up in his 60th floor suite, after getting a tumultuous welcome.

Pacquiao and his huge entourage, including his mother, Dionisia, trainers Freddie Roach and Michael Moorer, advisers Mike Koncz and Wakee Salud, and friends always glued to the boxer, got off their bus at noon.

Then it was all “close to being dangerous” as Pacquiao was literally mobbed. Lee Samuels of Top Rank said they haven’t seen anything like this before, not even during Oscar dela Hoya fights.

Pacquiao was like a human magnet as he squeezed tightly inside the main lobby of Mandalay Bay. In the past, he’d stop for brief interviews, but this time, Arum just won’t allow it to happen.

“It would have been a dangerous situation. When I saw what was developing I got him right up to his suite. I think this will be Manny’s last arrival. Next time we’ll put him up in a window and he waves at them,” said Arum.

The legendary promoter wasn’t blaming anyone. He said it was understandable that with Pacquiao’s popularity, everybody wants to get a piece of him.

“They told me that in the Time Magazine poll, in the 100 most influential people in the world, Manny Pacquiao has now officially outpolled, and got more votes than President Obama. Hey! Here’s the new President of the Philippines,” said Arum.

When the smoke cleared, the first thing Arum did was call the MGM Grand where Ricky Hatton was to have his own arrival ceremony.

“I alerted them of the situation and I told them not to get out of the car,” said Arum, and MGM took the cue, by lining up velvet ropes from the main entrance all the way up to the makeshift ring where the British star greeted his fans and did interviews.

“This is as close to being dangerous. Luckily we have here Rob Peters (Team Pacquiao head of security) and we got him out,” as he looked back.

“And they wanted to make interviews. If we stopped for interviews he would have been killed,” said Arum with a little exaggeration.

Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=462662&publicationSubCategoryId=69

Pacquiao says still undecided on retirement after 2009

2009-04-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao, who has openly discussed his political plans for 2010, is now undecided about talks of his retirement from boxing.

Pacquiao, who earlier said that he will hang his boxing gloves by the end of 2009, told Anjali Rao of CNN’s Talk Asia that he will push through with his retirement plans.

“[My wife Jinkee] never asked me about retirement, but my mom wanted me to retire soon,” the celebrated Filipino said in the CNN interview. “I don’t know, I’ve not decided yet.”

Should he continue, his fighting career could go in the way of his political plans as he is reportedly on track to run for congressman in 2010.

“Yeah definitely, next year,” Paquiao said when asked if he will be returning to politics.

“My dream is to run for Congress, I want to help my countrymen especially in General Santos [City],” he added.

Among the fighters already being eyed as his next opponents after Britain’s Ricky Hatton are Miguel Cotto, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and “Sugar” Shane Mosley.

However, the biggest draw could be against former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr., whose father Floyd Sr., is training Hatton.

Another blockbuster match up for Pacquiao is with his arch nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez, whom he beat in a controversial split decision in 2008.

When asked about his choice of opponent after Hatton, the Filipino said he will fight any opponent his promoter picks.

“As long as he’s a boxer, 140 to 147 pounds, I can fight [him],” said Pacquiao.

On Hatton

The Filipino champion said it would be an honor for him to face Hatton, whom he will be facing on May 2 in Las Vegas.

“Fighting with English fighter is my honor and Ricky Hatton is a nice person too,” said Pacquiao.

In respect to Hatton, who is now Britain’s biggest boxing star, Pacquiao has underwent almost the same training and preparations he went through when he was fighting Oscar de la Hoya.

“I sparred every other day. Twelve rounds with three boxers. The intensity of our training is the same like our preparation against Oscar,” said the Filipino.

He also said he merely shrugged off the ongoing verbal jabber between his trainer Freddie Roach and Hatton’s mentor Floyd Sr.

Pacquiao said that as boxers, their sole duty is to fight.

“We don’t care if they’re talking trash. We try our best to give a good fight and make people happy,” he said.

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/04/29/09/pacquiao-says-still-undecided-retirement-after-2009

Manny can’t fight, says Mayweather Sr.

2009-04-29T16:45:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS — FLOYD MAYWEATHER SR. likens Ricky Hatton to an animal, specifically a tiger, in the ring. Ferocious and vicious as a fighter, Hatton is also the epitome of what a boxing student should be—talented and a fast learner, according to the trainer.

In contrast, Mayweather holds Manny Pacquiao in low esteem.

The American says the Filipino ring hero fights like an amateur despite being the world’s best pound-for-pound fighter—a title once owned by his now retired son and namesake.

It’s no wonder that Mayweather picks his pupil, Hatton, to win the May 2 showdown.

“Not only is Hatton bigger, stronger than Pacquiao, he is also smarter, slicker, clever, smoother,” said Mayweather.

“If I have a fighter of eight years like Freddie Roach had Manny, I wouldn’t be thinking so much about the size because Manny still can’t fight if you ask me,” said Mayweather.

Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/professional/professional/view/20090429-202212/Manny-cant-fight-says-Mayweather-Sr

CNN's Talk Asia catches up with Manny Pacquiao

2009-04-29T16:43:00.000-07:00

CNN's Talk Asia catches up with Manny Pacquiao at his gym in Los Angeles as he tells Anjali Rao about his love for his native Philippines. The show also takes viewers to Pacquiao's hometown of General Santos City, where he is revered equally for his boxing skills and community activism.

Manny Pacquiao has established himself as one of the most exciting fighters in boxing today. He's often referred to as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world - a position cemented with his stunning defeat of the legendary Oscar De La Hoya. Pacquiao is now in the final stages of training for an upcoming bout with Britain's Ricky Hatton in a Las Vegas showdown billed as "The Match of the Year."

Dubbed the "Battle of East and West", the tickets to see the mega fight between "Pac-man" and "The Hitman" are already sold out. Despite the verbal sparring between their trainers, the Filipino fighter speaks highly of his British opponent: "Fighting with English fighter is my honor and Ricky Hatton is a nice person too. We don't care if they're talking trash. We try our best to give a good fight and make people happy."

For Pacquiao even the US$12 million dollar paycheck he's expecting from the fight can't beat the adulation he gets from his people. The national hero is grateful for his local support: "For my every fight, I always dedicate to my countrymen. I'm so happy because during my fight, there's no crime happening in the Philippines. Everybody watches on TV, watches my fight and I'm very happy." It's often reported that when Pacquiao is fighting, the crime rate falls to zero and the government's 40-year war with communist rebels came to a halt, as people pause to watch the bout.

The 30-year-old fighter made his mark in the ring with a stunning win over the legendary Oscar De La Hoya, which ended the Hispanic American's career. "He made a good decision to retire because he already made it in boxing as the best fighter in the world." Pacquiao added, "I feel of course proud and happy because his last fight was with me. But Oscar is still my idol. I admire that boxer."

As for life after boxing, Pacquiao's thoughts turn to politics, despite his defeat in 2007's congressional elections. "Before, because I'm in the top of my career and people they don't want me to enter into politics. I think that's why I lost in the last election. But this time, I prove them all they want to see in boxing, so the next step is going to run again in politics." But Pacquiao denies any plans to run for president: "No, my dream is to run for Congress only. I just want to help my countrymen, especially in Santos City."

Source: http://www.medianewsline.com/news/146/ARTICLE/4457/2009-04-29.html

Manny Pacquiao: Man of the Fans

2009-04-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

Manny Pacquiao is known as "The People's Champ", as he is a hero to millions and was also recently named one of the world's most influential people by Time Magazine. In this exclusive video we catch up with Manny after a long day of training. Tired and hungry, he sticks around the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood to greet hundreds and hundreds of excited fans.

Source: http://boxing.fanhouse.com/2009/04/29/manny-pacquiao-man-of-the-fans/

Pacquiao/Hatton 24/7 Concludes this Friday

2009-04-29T16:35:00.000-07:00

And you should be watching!

The best short series in television concludes this Friday night as Pacquiao/Hatton 24/7 comes to an end, one day before their junior welterweight clash at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

The episode will of course focus on Pacquiao breaking his camp to make the trip to Las Vegas where the Hitman is already waiting for him. Their grand arrivals took place on Tuesday and Ricky Hatton has one final media day workout before they rumble on May 2.

Previous entries of the show can also be found on HBO on Demand, while the first three episodes will be shown back to back on Friday, May 1 beginning at 8 p.m. before the fourth installment airs.

Source: http://www.411mania.com/boxing/news/103313/Pacquiao-Hatton-24-7-Concludes-this-Friday.htm

ED GRANEY: Father's fury left imprint on Roach

2009-04-29T16:33:00.000-07:00

The tough part was watching his mother move slowly down the stairs with two newly shined black eyes. The confusing part was watching his father laugh in her face shortly after his fists inflicted the damage.

It's a lot to take in when you're 5 years old.

They say boys look to fathers as a way to shape an identity, that while communication often lacks between a son and his dad, bonds are built through the accompanying silence.

Freddie Roach built his through the hush of fear.

At 49 he is one of the world's best boxing trainers by choice and tireless work, a predictable profession for a man who had 150 amateur fights before turning pro and surviving 53 more. He again will direct the corner of Manny Pacquiao when the latest pound-for-pound king meets Ricky Hatton on Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden.

The fighting part wasn't an option for Roach, because there was a ring out back of the house and God help any son of Paul Roach who didn't climb in and begin sparring by age 6.

God help the son who didn't rise before 6 a.m. five days a week and have his road work done before breakfast, who didn't take the train from Dedham, Mass., into south Boston four nights a week for training, who didn't listen to every syllable of boxing instruction from the old man when the weekend arrived.

Oh, yeah: If you were a second late for dinner, one tick on the kitchen clock, the dogs got your food.

"We weren't the best of kids and we got into a lot of trouble and Dad was a physical guy," Roach said. "He talked with his fists. Sometimes we got what we deserved. But the one thing he demanded was loyalty. If you fought one Roach, you fought us all.

"I remember one time I got caught stealing and the store manager called Dad. He came down and started whaling on me right there in front of everyone. But when we got home, my older brother got the real beating for not having backed me up at the store.

"I know. It was twisted."

Meanwhile, a mother stayed for her five sons and two daughters. She stayed for Allen and Cindy and Pepper and Freddie and Joe and Julie and little Paul. She stayed and prayed of the moment she could escape.

Have you heard this story before?

Barbara Roach was a tough cookie herself, having grown up dirt poor and marrying Paul Roach, a New England featherweight champion in 1947 whose post-boxing career was spent as a tree surgeon.

She served as a boxing judge throughout the New England states because the more she watched her sons' amateur cards, the more she felt it was a job she could handle. She did it for more than 30 years. The fights weren't the tough part. Going home was.

"Paul was hard on all of us," said Barbara, who moved to Las Vegas 10 years ago and still works as a nurse at age 73. "But a lot of who the kids are today is because of Paul. If they wanted something, they had to work for it. In a way, they all have those hard-working, tough personalities.

"I would dream of the day I could pack my things and go. I wanted to save myself. But I also waited until all the children were old enough."

What was the best part about Paul Roach?

"He was very protective of his family -- if one of them was in a fight outside, he sent every one of them out, girls included."

What was the worst part?

"He was very protective of his family."

It's weird and it's not. She remembers leaving, but can't recall the exact day and how she felt. She knows Paul died some time ago, but is sketchy on the exact number of years. Maybe 15. Maybe longer.

It's sort of like the idea that for a tree to grow tall, it must grow tough roots among the rocks. Barbara Roach grew them among boulders with a fuming arborist for a husband, and time has a way of hardening those memories we would just as soon forget.

Her son Freddie knew enough to realize this: When you proved yourself the best boxer in the house, Dad tended to go easier on you. Freddie was 16 when he assumed that top spot on the family ladder. He too would win a New England featherweight crown, 32 years after his father.

Freddie Roach was known to have taken as many punches as he delivered, which created the link many feel connects his career to the Parkinson's he suffers from. Others within the family tree had the disease and Barbara is convinced Freddie was genetically coded for it. She is also certain so many blows to the head accelerated the onset.

She won't be at the fight Saturday. She will watch with family at another of her son's homes. They will sit and laugh and talk and pay attention when Freddie's fighter lands a good punch or gets in trouble.

There has been too much fighting in all their lives to ever again consider it a life-and-death matter.

"I love my Mom more than anything and would do anything for her," Freddie said. "She went through hell. She always stuck up for us when Dad got real physical and that meant she got it too and it was bad. It was unbelievable what she went through. My older brother tried stopping him from hitting her one time and it almost got him killed.

"You know, when you're a little kid, you love your dad and want to be like him. Then you grow up and don't want to be like him. But I'm not sure I held much against him. He was a working stiff with seven kids who put three meals on the table for us each day. People thought he drank. He never drank. Alcohol wasn't allowed in our house. He was just bitter.

"But the only time I ever saw him smile was when we would win our fights. The last time I spoke to him was after my last fight as a pro. I lost a 10-round decision. He walked in and asked how someone once so good could end up so bad. I told him to go (bleep) himself and never saw him again.

"I'm sure he did the best he could."

The son is grown and successful and prospering like never before. He is the best at what he does.

He is his father's son. Tough and determined.

He is his father's son, and in so many good ways, he isn't.

Source: http://www.lvrj.com/sports/43962817.html

Pacquiao like Ali — Arum

2009-04-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS — Pardon Bob Arum for playing the role of carnival barker to the hilt.

While anything he says will not make any more difference in hyping up this Saturday’s big fight between Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton, the seventy-something Harvard-educated lawyer could not help but express his amazement over the media and public turnout during the Filipino’s arrival Tuesday afternoon at Mandalay Bay.

“These people just want a piece of him. They want to touch him and I’ve seen this before with (Muhammad) Ali years and years ago. This is the same type of reaction,” Arum told a group of Manila-based scribes.

“Manny has taken the place of the most popular fighter in the world. He has crossed over and he is now the face of boxing.”

Although Pacquiao had landed in Sin City the night before from Los Angeles, Arum wanted to play it even more so the papers and all the media get to cover him from all angles.

And that’s just what happened as soon as Pacquiao emerged from the customized bus that brought some members of his team, friends and followers here from Hollywood Monday night.

The media crush was so overwhelming that earlier plans to accommodate a few interviews at the entrance were aborted due to the mob scene.

Source: http://mb.com.ph/articles/204256/pacquiao-ali-arum

Ricky Hatton 'delighted' to be odds-on to be knocked out against Manny Pacquiao

2009-04-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton says he is "delighted" to have been installed as odds-on to be knocked out in his sold-out 140 lb 'super fight' against Filipino Manny Pacquiao here at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday night.

"I love it. Love it," Hatton said. "The way people are talking about Manny, you'd think he should be fighting Godzilla. As good a fighter as Manny is, I think he is being judged on his performance against Oscar De La Hoya [who quit on his stool after eight rounds last December], but if I had fought Oscar, I would have knocked him out quicker. Oscar was a shell of himself, and has said he felt 'lifeless' and wanted Manny to knock him out to end it all. Manny didn't have the power to knock him out."

Hatton also intimated that cuts – and both fighters have suffered from cuts in their careers – "could play a part in the outcome of the fight", and that he has seen Pacquiao "flap" when cut.

Hatton is adamant that he has all the tools to beat, at the second attempt, the No 1 pound-for-pound boxer in the world. His only career defeat was to Floyd Mayweather Jnr, then pound-for-pound No 1, in Dec 2008.

"Under my new trainer Floyd [Mayweather Snr] we scraped the surface in the Paulie Malignaggi fight last November," Hatton said.

"The defeat to Mayweather humbled me. I thought I could go in there and just bulldoze opponents. I can't steamroll people at this level. I needed to get knocked on my backside to see that my style needed to change.

"I'm not suddenly a defensive master, but I'm more polished. If I fight Manny the way I fought Floyd Mayweather, he'll beat me. I made it easy for Floyd. It won't be easy for Manny. I feel it in my bones that this one is mine."

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxingandmma/5237231/Ricky-Hatton-delighted-to-be-odds-on-to-be-knocked-out-against-Manny-Pacquiao.html

Pac-Man ‘Magic’ Has Shoppers, Church-Goers Vanishing (Update1)

2009-04-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

April 29 (Bloomberg) -- Manila cab driver Christopher Piolo plans to take his first Sunday off in four months this weekend. The reason: Manny Pacquiao is boxing.

“Whenever he fights, the whole country stops,” said Piolo, 32, who has driven every Sunday since the boxer, actor and singer known as Pac-Man last fought in December. “Nobody wants to go out on the streets. We’re all glued to the TV.”

Pacquiao will slug it out with Britain’s Ricky Hatton in Las Vegas on May 2 in his 54th fight and first since inflicting a final career defeat on 10-time world champion Oscar De La Hoya. The Philippines is set for a surge in power demand as millions tune in, while malls and churches are bracing for a quiet time as people stay home to watch the 30-year-old fighter.

“He’s a legend, an icon, a role model,” said Father Stephen Jantuah, a priest whose church in Manila’s business district empties whenever Pacquiao fights. “He represents the whole of the Philippines, someone fighting for our side.”

Saturday night bouts in Las Vegas are broadcast live from late Sunday morning in the Southeast Asian nation, meaning many businesses feel the pinch as much as places of worship. Stores get 30 percent fewer visitors before and during his bouts, said Steven Tan of SM Prime Holdings Inc., which operates 33 malls.

“Business goes down,” said Kenneth Yang, president of McDonald’s Corp.’s Philippines franchise. “But our delivery business picks up.”

Power Surge

Movie theaters, venues and restaurants screening the fight stand to benefit, as do power suppliers. SM Prime, which is showing the bout in 100 cinemas, has sold out of tickets.

“The malls are eerie when the fight is on because people are inside the cinema,” said SM Prime President Hans Sy.

Electricity demand in the nation of 96 million surges 2 percent when Pacquiao is in the ring, said Carlito Claudio, vice president for system operations of National Grid Corp. of the Philippines. About 1 million more people switch on televisions than on a regular Sunday morning.

“Sunday usually has the lowest load for the week,” Claudio said. “But that changes whenever there’s a Pacquiao fight.”

Pacquiao’s rise from poverty underscores his appeal in a nation where, according to the World Bank, a quarter of the population lives on less than $1.25 a day. Growing up in the southern province of South Cotabato, he sold cigarettes to help his mother, a fish-cracker vendor, feed the family and would often make do with one meal a day of rice.

His mother now lives beside Pacquiao’s home, which has a boxing glove-shaped pool and gold-tinged rocking chairs. Pacquiao’s profile and rags-to-riches rise have been celebrated in a biographical movie and a hit single about his feats.

$12 Million

The 5-foot-6 (1.68-meter) fighter has amassed a fortune during a 14-year career that’s brought him four world titles, 48 wins, three losses and two draws, setting him up for a paycheck of at least $12 million for the Hatton fight.

Pacquiao has endorsed products from socks to pain relievers, appearing in ads for Nike Inc. and McDonald’s, and the government uses him to urge people to pay taxes. That popularity hasn’t helped him get into politics.

Pacquiao lost his bid for a seat in the national Congress in his home town of General Santos City in 2007 and he aims to re-enter politics, possibly in next year’s elections.

“I’d like people to remember me as the fighter who lifted the spirits of the Filipinos and was able to inspire and unite them,” Pacquiao said in an interview. “When you go into politics, it’s the welfare of the people that you must think of. I already have money so my goal is to help.”

‘Magic of Pac-Man’

Pacquiao is aiming for a 37th knockout when he takes on Hatton in a non-title fight in the 140-pound (63.5-kilogram) junior welterweight division. Victory would deliver a feel-good factor to a nation struggling with its slowest economic growth in more than eight years, says Father Jantuah. Pacquiao winning is “like Obama becoming president,” says the Ghana-born priest.

“No matter how difficult your life is, how poor you are, you forget your problems for a while” when he fights, added taxi driver Piolo. “That’s the magic of Pac-Man.’’

Manila Police Chief Roberto Rosales is making the most of Pacquiao’s appeal. For just a few hours on Sunday, his force will be left chasing fewer criminals.

“It’s very peaceful, the crime rate is almost zero,” said Rosales. “There should be a Pacquiao fight every day.”

Source: http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&sid=aX9843dZj4ns&refer=home

Hatton has new tricks vs Pacquiao

2009-04-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS — Ricky Hatton is so confident of beating Manny Pacquiao that he thinks the only way he will lose is if he doesn’t show up during fight night on Saturday (Sunday in Manila).

“Not turning up,” Hatton told the Filipino journalist who asked him what would prevent him from winning against Pacquiao at the MGM Grand.

While Hatton’s response drew laughter from those gathered around him – he was seated on the ring stairs engaging reporters from the US, England and the Philippines in a lively Q&A session – his succeeding answers would reveal that he wasn’t horsing around.

Hatton admits he remains the Hatton of old, one whose ultra-aggressive punching enabled him to steamroll over opponents with ease.

The Manchester native, however, insists he has been fine-tuned a bit for his big fight against Pacquiao.

“I am still aggressive, still a body-puncher and still as ferocious as ever. I don’t think I have changed a great deal. I am just a little bit more polished in certain areas. This is the best Ricky Hatton has ever been,” Hatton boasted. “This is my weight division and I haven’t lost too many rounds at 140. You’re not fighting just the British bulldog now, the British bulldog has learned a few new tricks.”

Hatton might have been jarred a few times in the past at 140 lbs, but Pacquiao had also been under the same situation — and even worse — having been knocked out a couple of times and shaken a few times the past few years as well.

“Generally, my chin has been up to the job and I’ve got a few scary moments in certain fights here and there but I have a decent chin and Manny’s been hurt several times, body shots and head shots in the smaller weight divisions so that gives me full confidence.”

Told that he would immediately revert back to his old ways, slugging with wild abandon at the slightest contact, Hatton believes Pacquiao also is programmed to do the same thing.

“When he gets hit with a shot he tends to psyche himself even more and he gets pissed off with himself and I am hoping that might be his downfall. The same can be said about Manny and myself.”

Source: http://mb.com.ph/articles/204252/hatton-has-new-tricks-vs-pacquiao

THE HITMAN AND THE PACMAN FACE OFF

2009-04-29T16:22:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS – If you ask Ricky Hatton what his ultimate dream is in boxing, he’ll tell you candidly.

He wants to be considered the best pound-forpound boxer in the world, a mythical title bestowed on the best boxer regardless of weight classes and divisions.

And he believes a win this Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena over reigning pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao (48-3-2 36 KO’s) will give him that recognition.

"If I beat Manny Pacquiao, I believe I should [be considered] the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world," said Hatton during Tuesdays red carpet arrival in Las Vegas.

"To beat the pound-for-pound number one, you’re beating the best fighter in all weight divisions. So I think a boxer cannot go any higher than that. So it’s the biggest fight of my career."

It’s a title that he once fought for before but lost. In December of 2007, Floyd Mayweather Jr. was atop the boxing world carrying the mythical pound-for-pound tilte when Hatton challenged him. The two were undefeated. It was a mega fight that drew thousands of people from Britain and the US to Las Vegas.

Hatton fought valiantly but was eventually knocked out by a devastating punch in the tenth round. The defeat was humbling for the Pride of Manchester. It made him look back at his career and change his approach.

"If anything Floyd Mayweather Jr. knocking me on my butt was the best thing that’s ever happened to me," said Hatton who has a record of (45-1 32 KO’s).

Hatton said after the fight he had to go back to the boxing basics. He fired his long time trainer Billy Graham and hired the estranged father of the only man that ever beat him – Floyd Mayweather Sr.

Under Mayweather Sr.’s tutelage, Hatton said he’s transformed.

And all anyone has to do is watch his match there first match together against Paulie Malignaggi last November, he said.

"Everyone thought Paulie Malignaggi was going to outbox me, outspeed me, people expected him to beat me but I beat him in his own game in the end," said Hatton.

"I taught Ricky how to box," said Mayweather Sr. in a recent conference call. "Ricky didn’t know anything. He has brute strength. When I first went down to England over the past for him, you know, it was horrendous. But, you look at him today. He’s totally different. And that totally different gonna be explosive on May 2."

But don’t think just because he’s learning things technically that he’s never done before that he’s changed.

"Everybody thinks that just because of my new training camp that all of a sudden I’ve turned into a new twinkle toe jab and move boxer," said Hatton. "I am still aggressive. I’m still a body puncher. I’m still as ferocious as ever. I’ve just peaked technically. Now, I just jab more and just set up my attacks more."

Best Way to Beat Pacquiao

Hatton said that he’s not afraid of Pacquiao. Pacquiao has only lost once in the past ten years. Hatton has only been defeated once in his whole career.

But the difference in this fight is weight, according to Hatton. While Pacquiao has more fights under his belt, he’s only fought twice above the 130-pound weight class. Meanwhile, Hatton has fought in the Junior Welterweight and Welterweight division most of his career.

"He hasn’t fought anyone that’s going to be as ferocious, as powerful and as explosive as me," said Hatton. "I’m aware of [Pacquiao’s] power but really should I be scared of a man who has only fought two fights above 130 pounds. That’s not disrespecting Manny. I know he can hit but you know I’ve fought as high as 154 pounds the past four years."

Hatton said that he already knows what to expect from Pacquiao’s once the two are inside the ring.

"I think he fights the same way all the time," he said. "He throws the same punches all the time. He throws a right jab, a one-two. He shuffles in and out with his feet, which obviously [if you don’t get adjusted to], could cause you problems. But I think you get adjusted to this style - I don’t see a versatile fight in Manny Pacquiao. So I think I will have more game plans in my favor. Especially the way I’m fighting now really."

With only a few days remaining before May 2, fans should expect fireworks, said Hatton.

"The fans are going to be in for a fantastic night and where I’m at the minute, I couldn’t be any more positive about the outcome of this fight," he said.

LOS ANGELES – MANNY Pacquiao casually leans against the grey sofa, his head cocked forward like a Rodin statue, his left leg stretched out in a relaxed position. Members of his entourage flank him.

Wearing a light blue shirt and white cap, Pacquiao’s playing chess on top of a makeshift balikbayan box table. Winchell Campos, his long-time trusted advisor, sits across from him playing the white pieces.

The pound-for-pound king is contemplating his next move.

It’s Sunday, his only and last day off from training and the house is full of guests. It’s hard to imagine how Pacquiao could concentrate or even rest, with so many people crowding him. The scene is like a Filipino family party. There’s a lot of food, a lot of chatter, and a lot of cameras.

Except one thing, the cameras are all pointing towards one man.

The video cameras and digital cameras are in front of Pacquiao’s face capturing his every movement.

He pays no attention to any of it. Occasionally, he looks up when a few fans would shove shirts and boxing gloves towards him for an autograph.

This is normal for Pacquiao. With his growing popularity and stature, he’s accustomed the attention.

This is a man that fights in front of thousands of people live and millions around the world. And if he wins his next fight, his popularity will soar like a NASA spaceship.

This Saturday, the 30-year-old Pacquiao (48-3-2 36 KO’s) will face his biggest and arguably his toughest opponent. His match against Pride of Manchester Ricky Hatton (45-1 32 KO’s), the Light Welterweight titleholder, has been sold out for weeks now at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. HBO 24/7 documentary crews have been following his every movement for the past months hyping the fight.

There’s a lot stake in this match for Pacquiao. He’s proven that he’s the best at the 130-pound weight class, captured the Lightweight title in the 135-pound weight class, and defeated the Golden Boy of boxing.

After defeating "the King of pay-per-view" Oscar De La Hoya, which eventually lead to the Golden Boy’s retirement, many boxing pundits are expecting Pacquiao to take over the reins as the cash cow of boxing.

It is something he’s uncomfortable talking about.

"It’s up to God," said Pacquiao to the Asian Journal. "Whatever he wants me to do. All I can say is that I am ready for Hatton."

Defensively Better

On this day, Pacquiao is losing in a game of chess.

He’s cornered. The game is at its midway point. Campos has placed his horse in between Pacquiao’s two rooks. No matter what move Pacquiao does he knows one of his rooks, a vital piece in chess, is dead.

Pacquiao places his hand on top of the queen. He looks at the board before withdrawing his hand after a minute of thinking.

He moves one of his rooks away and Campos immediately trades the horse for the other rook.

In the past, Pacquiao would have moved the queen in an offensive position, going for a full on attack. But over the years, he’s learned that sometimes you have to sacrifice a piece to set up the offensive game plan.

His chess moves have translated in the ring.

According to Freddie Roach, Pacquiao is more aware of his defense than offense.

"Yeah, definitely," said Roach about Pacquiao’s improved defense. "We’ve been working on that for a long time… He’s boxing a lot smarter now. It started in the [David] Diaz fight. He boxed a beautiful fight. I mean his defense is much better. The Oscar [De La Hoya] fight was similar and the way things are going in training the Hatton fight will be the [defensively the] same."

Roach knows Pacquiao’s boxing style better than anyone else. When Roach first started training Pacquiao, he was just a raw one-handed southpaw fighter.

But through the past few years, Pacquiao has improved his overall game.

"Yeah, after the [Erik] Morales loss, people criticized me about Manny being just a one-handed fighter and he has a left hand," said Roach in a conference call. "And, so it was my job to improve his right hand and he’s come a long way and then I want to improve his defense…So, we’re just trying to be better and better as time goes on. And one thing about Manny Pacquiao, he’s the four or five time world champion and he’s still getting better and he still wants to learn."

Roach said Pacquiao’s determination is "unusual for somebody at his caliber, but he’s very capable and he’s getting better all the time."

The chess match against Campos ended up being a stalemate. A too-eager fan approaching Pacquiao for an autograph accidentally knocked the game board over, messing up all the pieces.

On Saturday, it’s unlikely that Pacquiao’s match against Hatton will end in a stalemate. The two are expected to brawl. And whatever happens, expect defense to be a key part in who wins the match.

Source: http://www.asianjournal.com/aj-magazine/midweek-mgzn/1754-the-hitman-and-the-pacman-face-off.html

'Best ever' Hatton ready for Pacquiao

2009-04-29T16:21:00.000-07:00

Ricky Hatton believes he is "the best he has ever been" heading into Saturday's showdown with Manny Pacquiao.

The "Hitman" takes a 42-1 (32 KOs) record into the light-welterweight fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, and is unbeaten in the 140-pound division, his lone defeat coming at 147 pounds when he was stopped by Floyd Mayweather Jr in the same ring nearly 17 months ago.

"This is the best Ricky Hatton's ever been," Hatton declared on Tuesday night. "I haven't lost too many rounds at junior welterweight, never mind fights, because I've been too strong."

He added: "But it's not just about 'the strongest man wins' in a boxing match. Other elements come into it, technical things, the game plan, things like that.

"Technically I was back to my best in my last fight and that was after only seven weeks with my new team. I think the difference between my last training camp and this one is night and day, technically."

The Las Vegas oddsmakers think Hatton is heading for the second defeat of his career when he goes in against Pacquiao (48-3-2, 36 KOs), who is widely considered to be the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world.

But the Mancunian is confident he will come out on top and has assured fans he was not leaving behind his aggression, nor would he be reverting to his less disciplined brawling style.

He said: "I am a pressure fighter. You couldn't say for the Malignaggi fight that I resorted back to the old Ricky Hatton.

"Everybody thinks because of my new trainer (Floyd Mayweather Sr) that I've turned into this twinkled-toed jab-and-move boxer. I haven't.

"I'm still aggressive, I'm still a body puncher, still as ferocious as ever; technically, I've just peaked it here and there, jabbing more, moving more, setting my attacks up. Everybody is saying I'll resort back, but resort back to what? I don't think I've changed a great deal, I'm just more polished in certain areas."

Source: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5g4SZpE0q1kvWGRrueztEIoX7lS0A

Rock star treatment for Pacquiao in Las Vegas

2009-04-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

MANILA, Philippines – Pandemonium broke out as boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao was formally welcomed like a rock star at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila).

Chants of “Manny! Manny! Manny!" broke out the moment Pacquiao stepped out of the customized passenger bus in front of the hotel lobby for the arrival rite that’s part of promotion for his showdown with Ricky Hatton.

Wearing a printed polo shirt topped by a black suite to complement his black pedora hat, Pacquiao smiled for the cameras and waved to the more than 200 people that gathered outside and inside the hotel lobby.

Just before him walked his mother Aling Dionisia, who experienced for the first time the kind of reception her son has been receiving here as a boxing star.

Behind the star of the show followed his long-line of entourage that included trainer Freddie Roach, assistant Michael Moorer, close adviser Michael Konz, and other members of Team Pacquiao.

The ceremony was supposed to have Pacquiao granting interviews and answering a few questions, but Top Rank Promotions decided to do away with it after the mayhem created by his arrival.

“This is insane," said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum, smiling but obviously stunned by the huge number of crowd that turned up for the event. “If we had stopped to do interviews, we could have been killed."

“Luckily we got him (Pacquiao) to the suite, because he could have been trampled if we stay down here."

After resting at his room on the 60th floor, Pacquiao sweat it out at the IBA gym with Roach at around 1 p.m. Early in the day, he jogged at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas campus and did some stitch muscle workout prepared by conditioning coach Alex Ariza to enhance his speed without losing power.

In contrast, 24 Oras reported that a lot less turned up for the formal welcome for Hatton over at the MGM Grand Hotel. Without Pacquiao's swarm of eager fans, the “Hitman" was able to accommodate the international media for a chat. –GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/159151/Rock-star-treatment-for-Pacquiao-in-Las-Vegas

Biggest crowd ever greets Pacman

2009-04-29T16:19:00.000-07:00

LAS VEGAS -- Even Manny Pacquiao was surprised by the warm reception he got during his grand arrival Tuesday noon at the Mandalay Bay here.

As soon as he emerged from the 56-seater luxury bus painted with his image, a swarm of television crew and print photographers plus around 300 fans greeted the Filipino ring icon at the hotel lobby, prompting him to continue walking to the revolving door.

As security personnel tried to ward off people, Pacquiao continued walking, arm-in-arm with Top Rank head honcho Bob Arum.

Pacquiao and his entourage, including her mother Dionesia, chief trainer Freddie Roach, assistant trainer Moorer, Chavit Singson and Wakee Salud, headed near the casino, then proceeded to the elevators en route to his suite.

Pacquiao said he was “surprised so many people turned out.”

“It’s bigger than the (Oscar) De La Hoya one,” referring to his grand arrival for their blockbuster welterweight showdown last December.

Pacquiao, clad in khaki slacks, a dark coat and Kangol cap, said he was ready to do battle with Hatton.

Having reached ideal form, Pacquiao only did early morning running at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas track oval and then sweated it out at the IBA Gym late afternoon.

Under the supervision of conditioning coach Alex Ariza, Pacquiao concentrated on fast twitch muscles drills, designed to enhance his speed without losing power.

Later, Roach guided Pacquiao through his routine—shadow sparring, punching mitts, hitting speed balls, skipping —as they mopped up the plans and strategies to be employed against Ricky Hatton when they clash on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) for the Briton's International Boxing Organization light welterweight crown.

Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/professional/professional/view/20090429-202177/Biggest-crowd-ever-greets-Pacman

Hatton may pull off an upset

2009-04-29T16:18:00.000-07:00

IF it is true that styles make fights, then the Manny Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton fight on Sunday (Manila) at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, is an event no one can afford to miss.

Pacquiao—the brawler turned boxer

Manny Pacquiao, recognized as the best boxer in the planet today, is expected to showcase his boxing skills. Gone are the days of the young careless pugilist. His courage and aggressiveness have been replaced with intelligence and skill, evidenced by his total domination of Oscar de la Hoya.

Although we all long for that one killer left straight that has decked many of his opponents, the Filipino fighter is expected to break down the bigger, stockier and stronger Hatton by throwing left lead straights followed by right hooks to the body and head. Pacquiao is also expected to fight from a distance throw double jab combinations to set up an uppercut from either the right or the left hand.

His main defense will be his foot speed. Pacquiao will move, stick, pivot and turn and will attempt to confuse the determined champion. His best option is to keep away to provide enough space for his left straight to land.

Hatton—a raging brawler

Ricky Hatton, on the other hand, is expected to take the fight to Pacquiao. Hatton is comfortable in fighting. He loves to brawl body to body and start his flurries while digging his forehead into his opponent’s chest.

He is gifted with the ability to throw well-timed and powerful left hooks—the best punch to throw against a left-handed fighter like Pacquiao.

That left hand when thrown early will stop Pacquiao from leading with his left hand before moving to his right. That left hand if thrown in succession may change the movement of the supposedly agile pound-for-pound king.

Key to victory

The key to this fight is this—whoever gets sucked into fighting the other’s style will lose.

If Pacquiao loses his cool to Hatton’s bullying tactics, he will find himself wrestling and pushing before he can throw his punches. He will need to work double time if he allows Hatton to dictate the way the fight unfolds.

On the other hand, if Hatton settles to fight in the middle of the ring and match Pacquiao’s combinations from a distance, he will find himself in no man’s land as this is what Pacquiao trained for. Hatton’s legs will be tested and his patience challenged.

Although Pacquiao is expected to win, Hatton is a dangerous opponent and may just pull off an upset.

Source: http://businessmirror.com.ph/home/sports/9583-hatton-may-pull-off-an-upset.html

Making Pay-Per-View's Day in May

2009-04-29T16:17:00.000-07:00

Another Cinco De Mayo weekend is fast approaching, which means HBO is gearing up for a big pay-per-view fight.

This May is no different: The network will pit boxing’s latest rising star, Manny Pacquiao, against tough Ricky Hatton in a May 2 fight — HBO PPV’s first major boxing match of 2009. The fight is sure to draw a significant number of hard-core boxing fans starving for a reason to throw a big fight party.

Yet this weekend’s festivities will feel different to many boxing fans than previous fights held during the first week of May. That’s because for the first time since its seems forever, Oscar De La Hoya is not fighting on Cinco De Mayo weekend.

Actually, the Golden Boy has fought just four of his 19 PPV fights in May — and last year he fought The Contender reality series finalist Steve Forbes on pay TV via HBO. Still, just as most people welcome the bloom of May flowers, operators have recently greeted the May march of De La Hoya to the PPV ring with excitement.

In 2006, Oscar returned to the ring after losing to longtime middleweight champion — and now De La Hoya business partner — Bernard Hopkins to fight rugged Ricardo Mayorga. De La Hoya’s pounding of Mayorga was great for operators, who shared in the $47 million in PPV revenue the fight generated — one of the top performing events of that year.

And no one associated with boxing or the pay-per-view cable industry could ever forget De La Hoya’s May 2007 tussle with then pound-for-pound champion Floyd Mayweather, especially since it took place during the industry’s annual Cable Show conference.

That fight turned into the biggest PPV event of all time, drawing 2.4 million buys and $134 million in revenue.

Two weeks ago, De La Hoya announced his retirement from the sport, which left major shoes to fill with regard to PPV boxing performances.

The industry is hoping that Pacquiao is the heir apparent to the Golden Boy’s throne.

The exciting junior welterweight has excited fans and cable operators over his career, punctuated with his technical knockout of De La Hoya last December.

That fight drew some 1.25 million buys, the biggest take for a PPV fight since De La Hoya-Mayweather.

HBO is hoping that Pacquiao and Hatton — no PPV slouch himself, having drawn 800,000 buys in his November 2007 fight against Mayweather — will reignite the PPV boxing category and approach prior May De La Hoya performances.

That would certainly give operators more to look forward to in years to come — and not only in May.

Source: http://www.multichannel.com/blog/Picture_This/12624-Making_Pay_Per_View_s_Day_in_May.php