By Lem Satterfield, FanHouse
Former world titlist Antonio Margarito has agreed to an "all-or-nothing" deal with the Los Angeles-based clothing company Affliction that is contingent on the Mexican-born fighter's winning his HBO pay per view televised Nov. 13 clash for the WBC's junior middleweight (154 pounds) belt opposite WBO welterweight (147 pounds) champion Manny Pacquiao.
In order for his deal to stick, the 32-year-old Margarito (38-6, 27 knockouts) must defeat the 31-year-old Pacquiao (51-3-2, 38 KOs), who will be in pursuit of his eighth crown in as many different weight divisions as well as his 13th straight victory and his ninth stoppage win during that time.
If Margarito loses, he will forfeit his sponsorship fee.
"I have full confidence that I am going to beat Manny Pacquiao," said Margarito, who has been sponsored by Affliction for his past three bouts. "And this deal that I have made with Affliction reinforces that confidence."
By the time that he steps into the ring opposite Pacquiao, Margarito will have been 21 months removed from being dethroned as WBA welterweight king following a ninth-round knockout loss to Shane Mosley in January, 2009.
"The look of the Affliction clothing is perfect for my boxing style," said Margarito, whose bout is being promoted by Top Rank Promotions. "And I appreciate that they are willing to continue to support me for this fight. I will be taking their money home too."
Affliction has backed Margarito despite the recent controversy that has shrouded his career.
For against Pacquiao, Margarito will be fighting on American soil for the first time since the fight with Mosley at The Staples Center in Los Angeles, whose resulting hand wrapping scandal led to the revocation of Margarito's license by the California State Athletic Commission until August when Texas licensed him to face Pacquiao.
Margarito, who was licensed in Mexico for May's 10-round unanimous decision victory over Roberto Garcia, has claimed having no knowledge of the illegal, plaster-like substance that was placed in his hand wraps by then-trainer, Javier Capetillo, before the substance was discovered, removed and confiscated prior to his facing Mosley.
Affliction representatives believe they are doing right by Margarito.
"Affliction believes in giving people second chances and Margarito deserves that opportunity with this fight and our support of his efforts," said Tom Atencio, head of entertainment and sports marketing for Affliction.
"For his part, Margarito, who was once one of the most feared boxers in the welterweight class, has a lot at stake in the upcoming match. He fights not only for the WBC title, but also for his reputation and the respect of fans," said Atencio. "Although he is under a lot of scrutiny, his decision to not play things safely shows heart, and there's something to be said for that kind of determination."
Source: boxing.fanhouse.com
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