By Tim Smith, DAILY NEWS
In the past when Floyd Mayweather Jr. had a press conference to announce his upcoming fight he used the occasion to get under the skin of his opponent.
So there was the expectation that Mayweather would use Tuesday's press conference at the Hudson Theater near Times Square to unnerve WBC welterweight champion Victor Ortiz, whom he will fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on Sept. 17.
Instead, Mayweather, who hasn't fought in 13 months, was in a more reflective mood. When it was his time to speak to the media and the many fans who packed the theater, Mayweather sounded as if he was delivering a testimonial than the usual fight hype.
Mayweather praised Ortiz and thanked everyone from the members of his team to the guys who sweep the floor in the balcony of the theater. For 15 minutes Mayweather talked about spending more time with his children, being misunderstood and not being given the benefit of the doubt on his many legal woes.
But the only thing that anyone wants to hear from Mayweather is if he will fight Manny Pacquiao, and if so, when is it going to happen? And while everyone is thinking that Ortiz, a young, powerful southpaw who comes straight ahead, is the perfect primer for a Pacquiao match, only Mayweather is certain whether the mega fight everyone wants to see will happen next year.
"Floyd Mayweather doesn't duck or dodge anyone," Mayweather said. "Do I want the Pacquiao fight? Absolutely. If that's what the fans want. It takes one step at a time. I can't overlook Victor Ortiz. He's tough and he's earned the chance."
By taking on Ortiz, a 24-year-old with pop in both hands, Mayweather is getting one up on Pacquiao, whose last few opponents have been retreads and has-beens. That point wasn't lost on Mayweather.
"Victor Ortiz is a young, hungry champion that bounced back from a brutal loss," Mayweather said. "Honestly I picked Victor Ortiz for that."
Mayweather wouldn't commit on exactly when he would fight Pacquiao, but at least he's on the record that he wants the fight. And Leonard Ellerbee, the CEO of Mayweather Promotions, said he doesn't see any obstacles for making the fight. Mayweather acknowledged that Pacquiao had agreed to blood and urine testing for performance-enhancing drugs, but was not on the same page with regard to the protocol that Mayweather wants to use.
Mayweather said he has never said that Pacquiao used performance-enhancing drugs. He said he just wants everyone in boxing and all sports to test for PEDs.
"They have it in baseball, they have it in football, they have it in the Olympics," Mayweather said.
Source: nydailynews.com
Wednesday 29 June 2011
Mayweather multitasks -- Las Vegas Review-Journal
By Steve Carp, LAS VEGAS REVIEW-JOURNAL
Floyd Mayweather Jr. will fight Victor Ortiz in his return to the ring, but on Tuesday he found himself looking into the future -- and a highly anticipated date with Manny Pacquiao.
As the promotion began for his Sept. 17 fight against Ortiz at the MGM Grand Garden, Mayweather (41-0, 25 knockouts) wanted to set the record straight -- at least from his perspective -- about where he stands with Pacquiao.
"I never said Manny Pacquiao is cheating," Mayweather said Tuesday from New York, where the two-city promotional tour kicked off. Mayweather and Ortiz will be in Los Angeles today.
"I never discredited Manny Pacquiao. I'm not taking anything away from him. All I said is we should take the (Olympic-style drug) tests. If you want to beat me, I want you to earn it. Just take the test.
"Do I want the Pacquiao fight? Absolutely. But it's one step at a time, and I can't overlook Victor Ortiz. He's the world champion."
Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) has the WBC welterweight title,
Mayweather is being sued by Pacquiao for defamation after Mayweather allegedly made claims in 2009 that Pacquiao used steroids to help launch his rise to the top as boxing's best pound-for-pound fighter. Over the past two years, there have been two attempts to put the two in the ring, and both tries have failed.
Ortiz said he knows Mayweather will dominate the headlines up until fight night, whether it's talk about Pacquiao, Mayweather's return to boxing from a 16-month hiatus or his myriad troubles outside the ring.
"I'm the one with the belt," Ortiz said. "I knew when I was 9 years old that I would one day be the world welterweight champion, and I plan to be the champ for a long time. If (Neil) Armstrong can go to the moon, why can't I hold on to my belt for 15 years?"
Ortiz, 24, is coming off a sensational win over Andre Berto on April 16, when he survived a sixth-round knockdown to knock down Berto later in the round and win the WBC belt by unanimous decision. He said the win proved to him that he had a warrior's spirit, and he refused to listen to critics who said he didn't have the heart to be a champion.
"I never paid any attention to that," Ortiz said. "I always stayed true to myself."
Mayweather was ringside that night. He was impressed with Ortiz and decided he would be a worthy opponent in his return to the ring.
"This is not my last fight," said the 34-year-old Mayweather, who last fought May 1, 2010, when he beat Shane Mosley.
Mayweather opened as a minus-750 favorite over Ortiz (plus-525) at the MGM's sports book.
"I'm going to stay active, and I'd like to give you 10 more fights," Mayweather said. "But I don't know if I can do that, since I'm closer to 40 than to 21. But I'm going to go to camp and dedicate myself and push myself to the limit. I look forward to going out there and bringing the pressure.
"I deserve to be where I'm at. What other athlete has done it 15 years straight without a loss?"
HBO announced Tuesday that the first installment of the reality TV series "24/7 Mayweather/Ortiz" will debut Aug. 27, with successive installments on Sept. 3, 10 and 16.
Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913. Follow him on Twitter @stevecarprj.
Source: lvrj.com
Floyd Mayweather Jr. will fight Victor Ortiz in his return to the ring, but on Tuesday he found himself looking into the future -- and a highly anticipated date with Manny Pacquiao.
As the promotion began for his Sept. 17 fight against Ortiz at the MGM Grand Garden, Mayweather (41-0, 25 knockouts) wanted to set the record straight -- at least from his perspective -- about where he stands with Pacquiao.
"I never said Manny Pacquiao is cheating," Mayweather said Tuesday from New York, where the two-city promotional tour kicked off. Mayweather and Ortiz will be in Los Angeles today.
"I never discredited Manny Pacquiao. I'm not taking anything away from him. All I said is we should take the (Olympic-style drug) tests. If you want to beat me, I want you to earn it. Just take the test.
"Do I want the Pacquiao fight? Absolutely. But it's one step at a time, and I can't overlook Victor Ortiz. He's the world champion."
Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) has the WBC welterweight title,
Mayweather is being sued by Pacquiao for defamation after Mayweather allegedly made claims in 2009 that Pacquiao used steroids to help launch his rise to the top as boxing's best pound-for-pound fighter. Over the past two years, there have been two attempts to put the two in the ring, and both tries have failed.
Ortiz said he knows Mayweather will dominate the headlines up until fight night, whether it's talk about Pacquiao, Mayweather's return to boxing from a 16-month hiatus or his myriad troubles outside the ring.
"I'm the one with the belt," Ortiz said. "I knew when I was 9 years old that I would one day be the world welterweight champion, and I plan to be the champ for a long time. If (Neil) Armstrong can go to the moon, why can't I hold on to my belt for 15 years?"
Ortiz, 24, is coming off a sensational win over Andre Berto on April 16, when he survived a sixth-round knockdown to knock down Berto later in the round and win the WBC belt by unanimous decision. He said the win proved to him that he had a warrior's spirit, and he refused to listen to critics who said he didn't have the heart to be a champion.
"I never paid any attention to that," Ortiz said. "I always stayed true to myself."
Mayweather was ringside that night. He was impressed with Ortiz and decided he would be a worthy opponent in his return to the ring.
"This is not my last fight," said the 34-year-old Mayweather, who last fought May 1, 2010, when he beat Shane Mosley.
Mayweather opened as a minus-750 favorite over Ortiz (plus-525) at the MGM's sports book.
"I'm going to stay active, and I'd like to give you 10 more fights," Mayweather said. "But I don't know if I can do that, since I'm closer to 40 than to 21. But I'm going to go to camp and dedicate myself and push myself to the limit. I look forward to going out there and bringing the pressure.
"I deserve to be where I'm at. What other athlete has done it 15 years straight without a loss?"
HBO announced Tuesday that the first installment of the reality TV series "24/7 Mayweather/Ortiz" will debut Aug. 27, with successive installments on Sept. 3, 10 and 16.
Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913. Follow him on Twitter @stevecarprj.
Source: lvrj.com
Manny Pacquiao still much on Mayweather's mind -- Statesman
Statesman.com
NEW YORK — Floyd Mayweather Jr. was in New York on Tuesday to announce his first fight in 16 months against WBC welterweight champion Victor Ortiz, but it was the subtext of his rivalry with Manny Pacquiao as best pound-for-pound fighter in the world that remains more compelling than the main event scheduled Sept. 17 in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao was much on Mayweather's mind when he began his remarks. Noting that Ortiz (29-2-2, 29 KOs) agreed to unlimited drug testing by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, Mayweather (41-0, 25 KOs) segued to the subject of failed negotiations for a Pacquiao fight the past two years, blaming it on Pacquiao's original demand it be confined to a specific prefight period.
"Do I want a Pacquiao fight?" Mayweather said. "Absolutely. If that's what the fans want, I want to give it to them." But he added, "To the media, I must touch on the Pacquiao situation. It's not just Pacquiao, it's sports. You look at the Olympics, and they're cheating. They're cheating in sports, period."
Mayweather insisted he's not worried about protecting his undefeated record, but he's worried about the possibility of facing fighters using performance-enhancing drugs. "If you beat me, I want you to earn it," Mayweather said. "Just take the test."
Mayweather is being sued by Top Rank promoter Bob Arum for defamation over allegations that Pacquiao has used steroids to fuel his climb from the 106-pound division to win titles in eight weight classes up to 154-pound light middleweight.
Source: statesman.com
NEW YORK — Floyd Mayweather Jr. was in New York on Tuesday to announce his first fight in 16 months against WBC welterweight champion Victor Ortiz, but it was the subtext of his rivalry with Manny Pacquiao as best pound-for-pound fighter in the world that remains more compelling than the main event scheduled Sept. 17 in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao was much on Mayweather's mind when he began his remarks. Noting that Ortiz (29-2-2, 29 KOs) agreed to unlimited drug testing by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, Mayweather (41-0, 25 KOs) segued to the subject of failed negotiations for a Pacquiao fight the past two years, blaming it on Pacquiao's original demand it be confined to a specific prefight period."Do I want a Pacquiao fight?" Mayweather said. "Absolutely. If that's what the fans want, I want to give it to them." But he added, "To the media, I must touch on the Pacquiao situation. It's not just Pacquiao, it's sports. You look at the Olympics, and they're cheating. They're cheating in sports, period."
Mayweather insisted he's not worried about protecting his undefeated record, but he's worried about the possibility of facing fighters using performance-enhancing drugs. "If you beat me, I want you to earn it," Mayweather said. "Just take the test."
Mayweather is being sued by Top Rank promoter Bob Arum for defamation over allegations that Pacquiao has used steroids to fuel his climb from the 106-pound division to win titles in eight weight classes up to 154-pound light middleweight.
Source: statesman.com
Mayweather, Ortiz reflective, restrained -- ESPN
By Franklin McNeil, ESPN.com
NEW YORK -- There wasn't the usual braggadocio, no getting in the other guy's face or chest-bumping.
Longtime welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. and current WBC titleholder Victor Ortiz kicked off the promotional tour for their Sept. 17 showdown on Tuesday by showing each other a level of professional respect that is fairly uncommon for these functions.
Despite repeated taunts from the gathered audience questioning Ortiz's heart, and the occasional shout for Mayweather to fight Manny Pacquiao, the fighters focused most of their attention on themselves at the Hudson Theater.
The 34-year-old Mayweather, who is returning to action for the first time since defeating Shane Mosley in May 2010, used the opportunity to reflect on his career, family and personal supporters.
I'm a lot older, a lot wiser," Mayweather said.
"I've been away from the sport awhile because I wanted to choose the right opponent. But also, I wanted to grow closer to my family, my mother, my children.
"My ultimate goal is for my son and my daughter to never work again. I have to give thanks to [advisors] Leonard Ellerbe and Al Haymon, HBO and my team for putting me in position so that my family will never have to work again."
During his reflective moment, Mayweather (41-0-0, 25 knockouts) appeared to get a little emotional. He paused briefly each time he thanked family members or close friends.
Maybe he is beginning to see the end of an illustrious fighting career. But Mayweather isn't yet ready to write the final chapters.
"I want to thank you guys [the fans] for all your support over the years," Mayweather said. "[Ortiz] is not my last fight. I want to stay active in the sport of boxing; hopefully I can give you guys 10 more fights.
"I may not be able to. I'm closer to 40 than I am 21. But I look forward to going out there. I'm not going to be moving. It's going to be like the Shane Mosley fight; I'm going to bring the pressure in the middle of the squared circle."
Ortiz, 24, has no thoughts of retiring. For him, this fight -- which will be staged at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will air on HBO pay-per-view -- represents the beginning of what he believes will be a wonderful career.
But Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) is approaching the rest of it with a new attitude. Roundly criticized in the aftermath of his TKO loss to Marcos Maidana in 2009, he was accused by many of lacking heart. It's the worst label to place on a boxer.
In the past, such comments pained Ortiz. Not anymore. He has experienced too much in life to allow such criticism to harm him anymore.
"I understand all the love-hate type stuff. It is part of the game," Ortiz said. "But tell me one thing I haven't already heard.
"My mom and dad, they left me. People who loved me, they left me. I've been through a bunch of [stuff], are you kidding me?
"For somebody to sit there and tell me how to live my life, or try to dictate how I should live my life, that makes me laugh. I don't care."
Being criticized doesn't concern Ortiz, and neither, apparently, does the Mayweather bout. It's a fight he says he has wanted since his teenage years, and when it was offered, Ortiz immediately signed on.
This was the opportunity he'd been dreaming of for too long.
Ortiz remembers one of the first times he mentioned wanting to fight Mayweather. He was 16 years old. There were doubters then, too.
"We were sitting down watching a Mayweather fight and [trainer Robert Garcia] -- he's not the nicest person toward us sometimes -- said, 'You can't be in there with him. He's way too classy. You're not in his class.'
"But no one is going to tell me how to live my life. I don't care. I'm here to fight."
Franklin McNeil covers mixed martial arts and boxing for ESPN.com. He also appears regularly on "MMA Live," which airs on ESPN2. Follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Franklin_McNeil.
Source: espn.go.com
NEW YORK -- There wasn't the usual braggadocio, no getting in the other guy's face or chest-bumping.
Longtime welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. and current WBC titleholder Victor Ortiz kicked off the promotional tour for their Sept. 17 showdown on Tuesday by showing each other a level of professional respect that is fairly uncommon for these functions.
Despite repeated taunts from the gathered audience questioning Ortiz's heart, and the occasional shout for Mayweather to fight Manny Pacquiao, the fighters focused most of their attention on themselves at the Hudson Theater.
The 34-year-old Mayweather, who is returning to action for the first time since defeating Shane Mosley in May 2010, used the opportunity to reflect on his career, family and personal supporters.
I'm a lot older, a lot wiser," Mayweather said.
"I've been away from the sport awhile because I wanted to choose the right opponent. But also, I wanted to grow closer to my family, my mother, my children.
"My ultimate goal is for my son and my daughter to never work again. I have to give thanks to [advisors] Leonard Ellerbe and Al Haymon, HBO and my team for putting me in position so that my family will never have to work again."
During his reflective moment, Mayweather (41-0-0, 25 knockouts) appeared to get a little emotional. He paused briefly each time he thanked family members or close friends.
Maybe he is beginning to see the end of an illustrious fighting career. But Mayweather isn't yet ready to write the final chapters.
"I want to thank you guys [the fans] for all your support over the years," Mayweather said. "[Ortiz] is not my last fight. I want to stay active in the sport of boxing; hopefully I can give you guys 10 more fights.
"I may not be able to. I'm closer to 40 than I am 21. But I look forward to going out there. I'm not going to be moving. It's going to be like the Shane Mosley fight; I'm going to bring the pressure in the middle of the squared circle."
Ortiz, 24, has no thoughts of retiring. For him, this fight -- which will be staged at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will air on HBO pay-per-view -- represents the beginning of what he believes will be a wonderful career.
But Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) is approaching the rest of it with a new attitude. Roundly criticized in the aftermath of his TKO loss to Marcos Maidana in 2009, he was accused by many of lacking heart. It's the worst label to place on a boxer.
In the past, such comments pained Ortiz. Not anymore. He has experienced too much in life to allow such criticism to harm him anymore.
"I understand all the love-hate type stuff. It is part of the game," Ortiz said. "But tell me one thing I haven't already heard.
"My mom and dad, they left me. People who loved me, they left me. I've been through a bunch of [stuff], are you kidding me?
"For somebody to sit there and tell me how to live my life, or try to dictate how I should live my life, that makes me laugh. I don't care."
Being criticized doesn't concern Ortiz, and neither, apparently, does the Mayweather bout. It's a fight he says he has wanted since his teenage years, and when it was offered, Ortiz immediately signed on.
This was the opportunity he'd been dreaming of for too long.
Ortiz remembers one of the first times he mentioned wanting to fight Mayweather. He was 16 years old. There were doubters then, too.
"We were sitting down watching a Mayweather fight and [trainer Robert Garcia] -- he's not the nicest person toward us sometimes -- said, 'You can't be in there with him. He's way too classy. You're not in his class.'
"But no one is going to tell me how to live my life. I don't care. I'm here to fight."
Franklin McNeil covers mixed martial arts and boxing for ESPN.com. He also appears regularly on "MMA Live," which airs on ESPN2. Follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Franklin_McNeil.
Source: espn.go.com
Vicious Victor Ortiz declares: I'll beat Mayweather twice, then whip Pacquiao -- Examiner
By Michael Marley, Examiner.com
Using what Don King likes to call “double shock power,” what if there were two huge boxing upsets, one on Sept. 17 and one on Nov. 12?
I guess we could then look forward to the 2012 Fight Of The Century, and certainly the most important all Mexican bout ever, between Vicious Victor Ortiz, who handed Floyd Mayweather his first ever pro loss, and Juan Manuel Marquez who, in his third try, finally whipped Pinoy Idol Manny Pacquiao.
Boxing oldtimers like to say that winning a first world title belt does wonders for a fighter’s confidence and Vicious Victor, based on his words and demeanor Tuesday at the Hudson Theater, was exuding confidence.
“I’ll be the one fighting Manny Pacquiao next year,” Ortiz said.
Some might look at his down times, the draw with Lamont Peterson and the notorious “quit job” against Marcos Maidana, and say that’s the essence of Ortiz. But Ortiz himself says we saw the content of his ring character when he bounced off the deck twice to hand cocksure Andre Berto his first defeat.
And, Ortiz promised, we’ll see more of that positive side of him when he shocks “Money” at the mGm Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
Someone mentioned the opening odds—with Mayweather minus 750 and Ortiz plus 525—and Ortiz laughed.
“I don’t care about that,” the 24 year old former Kansan said. “I don’t pay attention to that. I am not one of those made champions. I didn’t get here by fighting tomato cans.
“I’m not one of those guys who were fed with a spoon like that. I have a lot of slaps in my face (from critics). This is a great chance for me.
“I plan on being a world champion for 15 years. I didn’t work so hard for this opportunity to let it a slip away,” Ortiz said.
“I am definitely going to beat Mayweather.”
Ortiz explains away his controversial finish against Argentine strongman by citing family issues and a badly injured right hand.
“I let my emotions get the best of me regarding my brother and my sister and some issues,” Ortiz said. “I also had to (secretly) see some doctors and get cortisone shots in my hand.”
Criticism of his heart and courage from that loss still burns deep for Ortiz.
Ortiz revealed that he had to accept a rematch clause to get the Mayweather bout.
“So I may have to beat him twice and then fight Pacquiao,” Ortiz said.
Like I said, in the wake of besting Berto, Ortiz’s confidence level is at an all time high.
(mlcmarley@aol.com)
Source: examiner.com
Using what Don King likes to call “double shock power,” what if there were two huge boxing upsets, one on Sept. 17 and one on Nov. 12?
I guess we could then look forward to the 2012 Fight Of The Century, and certainly the most important all Mexican bout ever, between Vicious Victor Ortiz, who handed Floyd Mayweather his first ever pro loss, and Juan Manuel Marquez who, in his third try, finally whipped Pinoy Idol Manny Pacquiao.
Boxing oldtimers like to say that winning a first world title belt does wonders for a fighter’s confidence and Vicious Victor, based on his words and demeanor Tuesday at the Hudson Theater, was exuding confidence.
“I’ll be the one fighting Manny Pacquiao next year,” Ortiz said.
Some might look at his down times, the draw with Lamont Peterson and the notorious “quit job” against Marcos Maidana, and say that’s the essence of Ortiz. But Ortiz himself says we saw the content of his ring character when he bounced off the deck twice to hand cocksure Andre Berto his first defeat.
And, Ortiz promised, we’ll see more of that positive side of him when he shocks “Money” at the mGm Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.
Someone mentioned the opening odds—with Mayweather minus 750 and Ortiz plus 525—and Ortiz laughed.
“I don’t care about that,” the 24 year old former Kansan said. “I don’t pay attention to that. I am not one of those made champions. I didn’t get here by fighting tomato cans.
“I’m not one of those guys who were fed with a spoon like that. I have a lot of slaps in my face (from critics). This is a great chance for me.
“I plan on being a world champion for 15 years. I didn’t work so hard for this opportunity to let it a slip away,” Ortiz said.
“I am definitely going to beat Mayweather.”
Ortiz explains away his controversial finish against Argentine strongman by citing family issues and a badly injured right hand.
“I let my emotions get the best of me regarding my brother and my sister and some issues,” Ortiz said. “I also had to (secretly) see some doctors and get cortisone shots in my hand.”
Criticism of his heart and courage from that loss still burns deep for Ortiz.
Ortiz revealed that he had to accept a rematch clause to get the Mayweather bout.
“So I may have to beat him twice and then fight Pacquiao,” Ortiz said.
Like I said, in the wake of besting Berto, Ortiz’s confidence level is at an all time high.
(mlcmarley@aol.com)
Source: examiner.com
Floyd Mayweather Jr. says he 'would love the [Manny] Pacquiao fight to happen' -- Los Angeles Times
By Lance Pugmire, Los Angeles Times
For the first time since he walked off the post-fight news conference stage in May 2010, Floyd Mayweather Jr. addressed an assemblage of reporters Tuesday in New York and said what boxing fans want to hear.
Pacquiao's next as long as he agrees to the testing, [U.S. Anti-Doping Agency] testing. Victor Ortiz has agreed to do it. So did [May 2010 foe] Shane Mosley. I'm also testing. I'll show I'm clean, and that boxing is clean."
The 34-year-old Mayweather (41-0, 25 knockouts) and Ventura's 24-year-old Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) will tangle for Ortiz's World Boxing Council welterweight belt Sept. 17 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The pair will appear Wednesdayat downtown's L.A. Live at 8 p.m. for a public news conference.
Odds at Las Vegas sports books opened Tuesday with Mayweather as more than a 7-to-1 favorite over the taller southpaw. HBO pay per view will televise the bout and bring back its "24/7" series Aug. 27.
Since his last fight, Mayweather has been beset by legal challenges, including a multi-felony domestic violence episode involving the mother of his three children that has the boxer scheduled to return to Clark County (Nev.) court Oct. 20. But Mayweather said his three children live with him at his home in Las Vegas and he downplayed the severity of the alleged crimes.
"I'm in the hurt business, in a contact sport, so when something like this happens, people want to assume the worst. I'm automatically assumed guilty," Mayweather said.
"My thing is to focus on my job. Someone can go to trial, but you can't let it lose your focus on your key. I got to do what I do. Boxing is what pays my bills."
Mayweather said he's not expecting his skills to show ring rust despite a 16-plus month layoff that included a third failed negotiation to seal a Pacquiao fight, with the sides bitterly split on the drug-testing protocol.
"There's ups and downs with boxing, layoffs are part of the sport and they can either help or hurt a guy," Mayweather said. "In my case, I think it'll help. My fitness is great. I'm playing basketball, keeping my weight at 147 right now and getting my body stretched out in massages. I'm ready to go."
Mayweather said he opted to return to the ring after sitting ringside at Ortiz's thrilling decision triumph over previously unbeaten Andre Berto in April — when both fighters were knocked down twice in the bout.
"I really missed that atmosphere," he said.
Now Mayweather is focused on beating Ortiz, and then setting up the super-fight against Pacquiao that the world wants in 2012.
"How do I deal with that? Execute the game plan given to me," Mayweather said. "I can go outside, counter punch … this sport's all about being a great student and good listener. That's who I am."
lance.pugmire@latimes.com
twitter.com/latimespugmire
Copyright © 2011, Los Angeles Times
Source: latimes.com
For the first time since he walked off the post-fight news conference stage in May 2010, Floyd Mayweather Jr. addressed an assemblage of reporters Tuesday in New York and said what boxing fans want to hear."I would love the [Manny] Pacquiao
fight to happen," Mayweather Jr. told The Times in a telephone interview after meeting with the New York contingent. "We take one guy at a time. Now, it's Victor Ortiz.
fight to happen," Mayweather Jr. told The Times in a telephone interview after meeting with the New York contingent. "We take one guy at a time. Now, it's Victor Ortiz.Pacquiao's next as long as he agrees to the testing, [U.S. Anti-Doping Agency] testing. Victor Ortiz has agreed to do it. So did [May 2010 foe] Shane Mosley. I'm also testing. I'll show I'm clean, and that boxing is clean."
The 34-year-old Mayweather (41-0, 25 knockouts) and Ventura's 24-year-old Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) will tangle for Ortiz's World Boxing Council welterweight belt Sept. 17 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
The pair will appear Wednesdayat downtown's L.A. Live at 8 p.m. for a public news conference.
Odds at Las Vegas sports books opened Tuesday with Mayweather as more than a 7-to-1 favorite over the taller southpaw. HBO pay per view will televise the bout and bring back its "24/7" series Aug. 27.
Since his last fight, Mayweather has been beset by legal challenges, including a multi-felony domestic violence episode involving the mother of his three children that has the boxer scheduled to return to Clark County (Nev.) court Oct. 20. But Mayweather said his three children live with him at his home in Las Vegas and he downplayed the severity of the alleged crimes.
"I'm in the hurt business, in a contact sport, so when something like this happens, people want to assume the worst. I'm automatically assumed guilty," Mayweather said.
"My thing is to focus on my job. Someone can go to trial, but you can't let it lose your focus on your key. I got to do what I do. Boxing is what pays my bills."
Mayweather said he's not expecting his skills to show ring rust despite a 16-plus month layoff that included a third failed negotiation to seal a Pacquiao fight, with the sides bitterly split on the drug-testing protocol.
"There's ups and downs with boxing, layoffs are part of the sport and they can either help or hurt a guy," Mayweather said. "In my case, I think it'll help. My fitness is great. I'm playing basketball, keeping my weight at 147 right now and getting my body stretched out in massages. I'm ready to go."
Mayweather said he opted to return to the ring after sitting ringside at Ortiz's thrilling decision triumph over previously unbeaten Andre Berto in April — when both fighters were knocked down twice in the bout.
"I really missed that atmosphere," he said.
Now Mayweather is focused on beating Ortiz, and then setting up the super-fight against Pacquiao that the world wants in 2012.
"How do I deal with that? Execute the game plan given to me," Mayweather said. "I can go outside, counter punch … this sport's all about being a great student and good listener. That's who I am."
lance.pugmire@latimes.com
twitter.com/latimespugmire
Copyright © 2011, Los Angeles Times
Source: latimes.com
Mayweather is always worth watching -- ESPN
By Michael Woods, ESPN
NEW YORK -- Floyd Mayweather is one of those entertainers who falls into the "either you love them or you hate them" category.
His fans (and there are hordes of them -- a few hundred queued up at the Hudson Theater on West 44th St. in the blazing sun on Tuesday to watch the news conference banging the drums for his Sept. 17 fight against Victor Ortiz) point to his stellar technique in the ring, the sweetly scientific skills that allow Mayweather to boast with some viability that he is an all-time, pound-for-pound great. Those who don't care for Mayweather most often cite his tendency towards boastfulness. They'll point out that he hasn't always appeared to seek out the stiffest challengers en route to piling up a 41-0 (25 KOs) record and six titles in five weight divisions.
Evidence suggests, though, that folks in both camps -- those who admire the brash hitter, and those who don't dig the antics of the man who in P Diddy-ish fashion rebranded himself "Money" after going by the "Pretty Boy Floyd" tag -- pay up to watch him fight.
Some stats to back that up: In seven pay-per-view fights, Mayweather has amassed 6.9 million buys and garnered $375 million in revenue; his 2007 fight with Oscar De La Hoya did a record 2.44 million buys and a record $137 million in revenue. Tune in to see him expertly ply his trade, or tune in to see him get his block knocked off -- either way, people tune in.
So the fight game, the fans, the haters, and the suits who share in the take when Mayweather gloves up are all happy to see the 34-year-old back in the ring after 16 months away. He will allow the 24-year-old Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) -- a kid who came up the hard way in Kansas in a series of foster homes after being abandoned by his mother at age seven, and then by his father five years later -- a chance for a majestic signature win. Boxing fans have hungered for a couple years now to see Mayweather and the Filipino icon Manny Pacquiao face off for true bragging rights to the mythical pound-for-pound title. But a rumble with a young gun like Ortiz, coming off a stellar April win against WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto, has been met with an upbeat buzz on message boards and at water coolers.
It will be something of a relief for his backers to be able to focus on the in-the-ring element of Mayweather's life. He has been plagued by a series of brushes with the law in the past nine months. Charges are pending against the fighter for a Sept. 2010 clash with his ex-gal pal, the mother of his three kids, all of whom were up on the dais with the fighter and his posse on Tuesday. Mayweather seems to butt heads with security guards wherever he goes as well. Two months after the domestic situation, he got into a dispute with a security guard at his residence, and was charged with battery. A month after that, he was caught on tape getting into a beef with another guard at his community in Las Vegas.
On June 27, it was revealed that a man has filed a civil suit against Mayweather. The accuser says Mayweather, in May 2010, ordered his bodyguards to attack him at The Palms (Las Vegas) valet area. His woes also include a pending defamation suit lodged by Pacquiao, who maintains Mayweather and his crew accused him of taking illegal performance-enhancers; a week ago Mayweather blew off a deposition session for that case.
So, one might think that these legal entanglements hang heavy on Mayweather-s head -- that his ability to concentrate on the task of handling Ortiz, who has sent each and every one of his foes to the canvas since he turned pro -- might be compromised.
Not so, said Mayweather on Tuesday. "Absolutely not," he maintained. "You go through certain things in life. Everybody has certain obstacles put in front of them."
He said that writers play up negative aspects of his behavior, and found a silver lining in his travails, as he thanked writers who spoke ill of him for keeping him "relevant."
Mayweather wouldn't explicitly say that some or all of the accusations stem from people looking to make a buck off him. But he did note that one specific allegation of misbehavior was proven false via a tape of one incident which was leaked to the gossip website TMZ. "Things happen, you live and learn, I don't worry about anything, what's going to happen in life is going to happen, the only thing you can do is only hope for the best."
Some wonder if Mayweather should worry if he will be a free man come Sept. 17. He is facing a bevy of charges. New York attorney Keith Sullivan, who is active in the fight game, offered ESPNNewYork.com his take on Mayweather's prospects in his legal battles.
"On the home front, he has a domestic violence charge pending, for the alleged assault on his ex," Sullivan said. "This case won't hit the courts until after the Ortiz fight. However, he is looking at four felony charges. He also has two pending misdemeanor assault cases involving security guards at his housing complex. One of the two is scheduled for trial on Sept. 1. His attorneys are likely to get this matter adjourned until after the fight."
"Manny seems poised to score a knockout victory against Floyd in the federal defamation suit," Sullivan continued. "Mayweather violated the judge's order to appear for a deposition in mid-June. Disobeying any judge is never good, but particularly a federal judge. Manny's lawyer will likely seek a default judgment against Floyd. If the two ever fight, Manny may be able to walk with both purses to satisfy the judgment.
"The most serious legal problem is the felony domestic violence charges. I suspect his legal team will do everything in their power to show the court that Floyd is contrite and willing to partake in anger-management programs and community service as punishment. This case hinges almost entirely on his ex's willingness to testify against him. He can run, slip, duck, bob and weave away from fighters, but the law is said to have a long arm for a reason, it always catches up to you."
Mayweather didn't seem like a rattled man on Tuesday. He told the media and fans that he'd like to fight maybe 10 more times, and that he does want to fight Pacquiao -- if Pacquiao agrees to super-stringent performance-enhancing drug testing, which Ortiz has agreed to. He talked of wanting to be a superlative family man, and keeping his kids off the computer, lest they read inaccurate stories about their dad.
Backers will say he has matured. Detractors will say he is posturing.
But maybe people in both camps should root for Floyd to disentangle himself smoothly from the claws of the courts. As fan Anthony Ciarla, a 25-year-old from Bloomfield, N.J., who had a day off from managing the frozen food section at a supermarket put it as he waited to get inside the theater: "His character is very good for boxing. He appeals to everyone. You either love him or hate him. You pay to see him either way."
Source: sports.espn.go.com
NEW YORK -- Floyd Mayweather is one of those entertainers who falls into the "either you love them or you hate them" category.
His fans (and there are hordes of them -- a few hundred queued up at the Hudson Theater on West 44th St. in the blazing sun on Tuesday to watch the news conference banging the drums for his Sept. 17 fight against Victor Ortiz) point to his stellar technique in the ring, the sweetly scientific skills that allow Mayweather to boast with some viability that he is an all-time, pound-for-pound great. Those who don't care for Mayweather most often cite his tendency towards boastfulness. They'll point out that he hasn't always appeared to seek out the stiffest challengers en route to piling up a 41-0 (25 KOs) record and six titles in five weight divisions.
Evidence suggests, though, that folks in both camps -- those who admire the brash hitter, and those who don't dig the antics of the man who in P Diddy-ish fashion rebranded himself "Money" after going by the "Pretty Boy Floyd" tag -- pay up to watch him fight.
Some stats to back that up: In seven pay-per-view fights, Mayweather has amassed 6.9 million buys and garnered $375 million in revenue; his 2007 fight with Oscar De La Hoya did a record 2.44 million buys and a record $137 million in revenue. Tune in to see him expertly ply his trade, or tune in to see him get his block knocked off -- either way, people tune in.
So the fight game, the fans, the haters, and the suits who share in the take when Mayweather gloves up are all happy to see the 34-year-old back in the ring after 16 months away. He will allow the 24-year-old Ortiz (29-2-2, 22 KOs) -- a kid who came up the hard way in Kansas in a series of foster homes after being abandoned by his mother at age seven, and then by his father five years later -- a chance for a majestic signature win. Boxing fans have hungered for a couple years now to see Mayweather and the Filipino icon Manny Pacquiao face off for true bragging rights to the mythical pound-for-pound title. But a rumble with a young gun like Ortiz, coming off a stellar April win against WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto, has been met with an upbeat buzz on message boards and at water coolers.
It will be something of a relief for his backers to be able to focus on the in-the-ring element of Mayweather's life. He has been plagued by a series of brushes with the law in the past nine months. Charges are pending against the fighter for a Sept. 2010 clash with his ex-gal pal, the mother of his three kids, all of whom were up on the dais with the fighter and his posse on Tuesday. Mayweather seems to butt heads with security guards wherever he goes as well. Two months after the domestic situation, he got into a dispute with a security guard at his residence, and was charged with battery. A month after that, he was caught on tape getting into a beef with another guard at his community in Las Vegas.
On June 27, it was revealed that a man has filed a civil suit against Mayweather. The accuser says Mayweather, in May 2010, ordered his bodyguards to attack him at The Palms (Las Vegas) valet area. His woes also include a pending defamation suit lodged by Pacquiao, who maintains Mayweather and his crew accused him of taking illegal performance-enhancers; a week ago Mayweather blew off a deposition session for that case.
So, one might think that these legal entanglements hang heavy on Mayweather-s head -- that his ability to concentrate on the task of handling Ortiz, who has sent each and every one of his foes to the canvas since he turned pro -- might be compromised.
Not so, said Mayweather on Tuesday. "Absolutely not," he maintained. "You go through certain things in life. Everybody has certain obstacles put in front of them."
He said that writers play up negative aspects of his behavior, and found a silver lining in his travails, as he thanked writers who spoke ill of him for keeping him "relevant."
Mayweather wouldn't explicitly say that some or all of the accusations stem from people looking to make a buck off him. But he did note that one specific allegation of misbehavior was proven false via a tape of one incident which was leaked to the gossip website TMZ. "Things happen, you live and learn, I don't worry about anything, what's going to happen in life is going to happen, the only thing you can do is only hope for the best."
Some wonder if Mayweather should worry if he will be a free man come Sept. 17. He is facing a bevy of charges. New York attorney Keith Sullivan, who is active in the fight game, offered ESPNNewYork.com his take on Mayweather's prospects in his legal battles.
"On the home front, he has a domestic violence charge pending, for the alleged assault on his ex," Sullivan said. "This case won't hit the courts until after the Ortiz fight. However, he is looking at four felony charges. He also has two pending misdemeanor assault cases involving security guards at his housing complex. One of the two is scheduled for trial on Sept. 1. His attorneys are likely to get this matter adjourned until after the fight."
"Manny seems poised to score a knockout victory against Floyd in the federal defamation suit," Sullivan continued. "Mayweather violated the judge's order to appear for a deposition in mid-June. Disobeying any judge is never good, but particularly a federal judge. Manny's lawyer will likely seek a default judgment against Floyd. If the two ever fight, Manny may be able to walk with both purses to satisfy the judgment.
"The most serious legal problem is the felony domestic violence charges. I suspect his legal team will do everything in their power to show the court that Floyd is contrite and willing to partake in anger-management programs and community service as punishment. This case hinges almost entirely on his ex's willingness to testify against him. He can run, slip, duck, bob and weave away from fighters, but the law is said to have a long arm for a reason, it always catches up to you."
Mayweather didn't seem like a rattled man on Tuesday. He told the media and fans that he'd like to fight maybe 10 more times, and that he does want to fight Pacquiao -- if Pacquiao agrees to super-stringent performance-enhancing drug testing, which Ortiz has agreed to. He talked of wanting to be a superlative family man, and keeping his kids off the computer, lest they read inaccurate stories about their dad.
Backers will say he has matured. Detractors will say he is posturing.
But maybe people in both camps should root for Floyd to disentangle himself smoothly from the claws of the courts. As fan Anthony Ciarla, a 25-year-old from Bloomfield, N.J., who had a day off from managing the frozen food section at a supermarket put it as he waited to get inside the theater: "His character is very good for boxing. He appeals to everyone. You either love him or hate him. You pay to see him either way."
Source: sports.espn.go.com
Mayweather willing to fight Pacquiao under own terms -- USA Today
The Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) — It seems Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will be forever linked, regardless of whether they ever face each other in the ring.
The two have danced around the richest fight in boxing for several years, unable to come to terms. Meanwhile, their animosity has grown to the point that Pacquiao has a pending defamation lawsuit alleging Mayweather unfairly accused him of using performance-enhancing drugs.
So it's not surprising that Mayweather spent just as much time answering questions about Pacquiao on Tuesday as he did about Victor Ortiz, the welterweight champion whom he'll face in his next fight on Sept. 17 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
"I've never said that Manny Pacquiao was taking steroids, I never said he was taking enhancement drugs," said Mayweather, who failed to turn up for a court-ordered deposition in Las Vegas earlier this month involving the defamation suit.
"I want to fight the best they got out there, not just him, the best they got out there," Mayweather said, "and if he's on the list as one of the best guys, then absolutely."
Mayweather said he's willing to fight Pacquiao if there is random blood and urine testing, which is more stringent than the protocol used by most state athletic associations. Mayweather said Pacquiao's team would only agree to blood and urine testing at certain times.
"It's not just Pacquiao, it's sports, period," Mayweather said. "If you look at sports in the Olympics, they're cheating. Everyone is cheating. And I never once said Manny Pacquiao was cheating, only thing I said was this: Me and any other opponent I face must take the test."
Mayweather will be returning to the ring for the first time since defeating Shane Mosley in May 2010, though the undefeated former champion has made plenty of news since then.
Last Friday, 21-year-old Anthony Cliff filed a lawsuit accusing Mayweather of ordering his bodyguards to attack the man outside the Palms Casino Resort on March 27, 2010.
The lawsuit accuses Mayweather of assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent hiring, training, supervision and retention of employees.
Mayweather also faces felony charges stemming from a domestic argument and misdemeanor harassment and battery charges in separate cases.
"When you're young, black and rich, you go through things in life," Mayweather said. "But I'm a strong individual. I can survive through anything."
Mayweather's adviser, Leonard Ellerbe, declined to discuss the litigation.
"We focus on the business part and the boxing part," Ellerbe said. "We let the attorneys handle the legal stuff."
Mayweather and Ellerbe joined several hundred fans inside the Hudson Theater in New York City to kick off a promotional tour for the fight against Ortiz, who is coming off a career-defining victory over Andre Berto that made him the WBC welterweight champion.
Ortiz said he doesn't mind that people want to talk about Pacquiao — even if that person is Mayweather — because he's staring at the opportunity of a lifetime.
"I'm supposed to be a piece of nothing, I'm not supposed to be here, according to the statistics," said Ortiz, whose parents abandoned him when he was young, forcing him and his five siblings to live in foster care. "I'm tired of, 'You can't do this, you can't do that.'"
Early in his career, Ortiz was anointed the next Mexican-American superstar by Oscar De La Hoya, whose company promotes him. But his meteoric rise met a wall when he fought Marcos Maidana two years ago. Ortiz was losing after six rounds and essentially quit in the ring, one boxing's cardinal sins, and fans and the media were quick to write him off.
Ortiz has been spectacular on the slow road to redemption, though, and in April climbed off the canvas twice to beat Berto as the heavy underdog and win the welterweight championship.
"I realize he's a great fighter, but since I was 9 years old, I always said I'd fight Mayweather one day as champion of the world, and check it out," Ortiz said. "It's crazy."
Ortiz said he asked to fight Mayweather or Pacquiao after his most recent fight, even though he heard whispers from people — including some in his own promotional company — who said he was overmatched or out of his mind. But he wanted to fight the best in the world, and depending who you ask, he may have achieved that by landing a shot at Mayweather.
As for Mayweather's plan to fight Pacquiao next?
"There's only one problem," Ortiz said. "I'm fighting Pacquiao next."
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Source: usatoday.com
NEW YORK (AP) — It seems Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will be forever linked, regardless of whether they ever face each other in the ring.
The two have danced around the richest fight in boxing for several years, unable to come to terms. Meanwhile, their animosity has grown to the point that Pacquiao has a pending defamation lawsuit alleging Mayweather unfairly accused him of using performance-enhancing drugs.
So it's not surprising that Mayweather spent just as much time answering questions about Pacquiao on Tuesday as he did about Victor Ortiz, the welterweight champion whom he'll face in his next fight on Sept. 17 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
"I've never said that Manny Pacquiao was taking steroids, I never said he was taking enhancement drugs," said Mayweather, who failed to turn up for a court-ordered deposition in Las Vegas earlier this month involving the defamation suit.
"I want to fight the best they got out there, not just him, the best they got out there," Mayweather said, "and if he's on the list as one of the best guys, then absolutely."
Mayweather said he's willing to fight Pacquiao if there is random blood and urine testing, which is more stringent than the protocol used by most state athletic associations. Mayweather said Pacquiao's team would only agree to blood and urine testing at certain times.
"It's not just Pacquiao, it's sports, period," Mayweather said. "If you look at sports in the Olympics, they're cheating. Everyone is cheating. And I never once said Manny Pacquiao was cheating, only thing I said was this: Me and any other opponent I face must take the test."
Mayweather will be returning to the ring for the first time since defeating Shane Mosley in May 2010, though the undefeated former champion has made plenty of news since then.
Last Friday, 21-year-old Anthony Cliff filed a lawsuit accusing Mayweather of ordering his bodyguards to attack the man outside the Palms Casino Resort on March 27, 2010.
The lawsuit accuses Mayweather of assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent hiring, training, supervision and retention of employees.
Mayweather also faces felony charges stemming from a domestic argument and misdemeanor harassment and battery charges in separate cases.
"When you're young, black and rich, you go through things in life," Mayweather said. "But I'm a strong individual. I can survive through anything."
Mayweather's adviser, Leonard Ellerbe, declined to discuss the litigation.
"We focus on the business part and the boxing part," Ellerbe said. "We let the attorneys handle the legal stuff."
Mayweather and Ellerbe joined several hundred fans inside the Hudson Theater in New York City to kick off a promotional tour for the fight against Ortiz, who is coming off a career-defining victory over Andre Berto that made him the WBC welterweight champion.
Ortiz said he doesn't mind that people want to talk about Pacquiao — even if that person is Mayweather — because he's staring at the opportunity of a lifetime.
"I'm supposed to be a piece of nothing, I'm not supposed to be here, according to the statistics," said Ortiz, whose parents abandoned him when he was young, forcing him and his five siblings to live in foster care. "I'm tired of, 'You can't do this, you can't do that.'"
Early in his career, Ortiz was anointed the next Mexican-American superstar by Oscar De La Hoya, whose company promotes him. But his meteoric rise met a wall when he fought Marcos Maidana two years ago. Ortiz was losing after six rounds and essentially quit in the ring, one boxing's cardinal sins, and fans and the media were quick to write him off.
Ortiz has been spectacular on the slow road to redemption, though, and in April climbed off the canvas twice to beat Berto as the heavy underdog and win the welterweight championship.
"I realize he's a great fighter, but since I was 9 years old, I always said I'd fight Mayweather one day as champion of the world, and check it out," Ortiz said. "It's crazy."
Ortiz said he asked to fight Mayweather or Pacquiao after his most recent fight, even though he heard whispers from people — including some in his own promotional company — who said he was overmatched or out of his mind. But he wanted to fight the best in the world, and depending who you ask, he may have achieved that by landing a shot at Mayweather.
As for Mayweather's plan to fight Pacquiao next?
"There's only one problem," Ortiz said. "I'm fighting Pacquiao next."
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Source: usatoday.com
Manny Pacquiao Vs Floyd Mayweather JR: THE STORY HAS BEEN WRITTEN -- Ringside Report
By Geno McGahee, Ringside Report
In 2005, Floyd challenged the hopelessly overmatched WBC Light Welterweight Champion, Arturo “Thunder” Gatti. Gatti was a slugger, the “bloods and guts” warrior, that had been maneuvered into the championship because he drew a crowd. Floyd exploited the situation, used Gatti’s fan appeal and good guy image to begin to establish his character. He was the trash-talking villain and Gatti was the every man. Some even picked the power-puncher to upset Floyd, but it was a fool’s bet. Floyd easily, as predicted, dismantled and stopped Gatti, and found a place on the mainstream map.
In 2007, Floyd made a great business move and took on Oscar De La Hoya, a spent force, but a huge name, and he played with “The Golden Boy” en route to a decision win. He was systematically becoming a household name on the backs of other household names. That, along with his work with the WWE, he had overcome his style problems with the casual boxing fans, and is a huge attraction. People want to see him lose.
As Floyd’s bodyguards rough up fans, and Money Mayweather throws money around, bragging about how loaded he is, Pacquiao fights. He is another every man…a hard worker that has worked his way up the ladder the roughest way possible. He has taken on the best available competition to get to where he is and has earned a shot at Mayweather, the only fighter left that has as much claim to the top spot as he does.
The story of this 2012 showdown, if it happens is your typical story: Good guy vs. bad guy.
Floyd is the bad guy. He is the loud, flamboyant, cursing, angry fighter. Pacquiao is the good guy, helping his impoverished country, being respectful to his opposition, and speaking quietly before each fight, never going out of his way to insult an opponent. Although these are the thoughts of many boxing fans, the truth isn’t exactly there.
Floyd is not a bad guy. I don’t know him personally, but the majority of his antics are to hype up the fights, get a larger gate, turn a bigger buck on the PPVs. He is a business man, and like Vince McMahon of the WWE knows, a heel can sell very well. In fact, Floyd has probably taken a great deal of pointers from the WWE.
This holds true for Manny too. I’m not claiming that he’s disrespectful, but when you reach a level, you have advisors and whatever makes you more money, you will do. Manny being the worker, the good guy, has helped line his pockets. It makes sense to be this character, even if it doesn’t represent you 100%.
Victor Ortiz and Juan Manuel Marquez are two fighters standing in the way of this super fight. Both men intend to be victorious and rewrite this story. If Ortiz should win, you can bet that he will face Pacquiao in his next fight. If Marquez should win, it will be vindication and may set up a fourth match with Pacquiao. There are many different scenarios that could happen, but if the most likely happens, Floyd and Manny win, we should have a 2012 showdown with your good guy vs. bad guy appeal.
Let’s hope that they can finally agree to a fight.
Source: ringsidereport.com
When Floyd Mayweather, JR., 
came onto the scene, he didn’t draw the mainstream. He was a great boxer, great defensive fighter, but outside of die hard boxing fans, he was an unknown. He vowed to change that and did so.
came onto the scene, he didn’t draw the mainstream. He was a great boxer, great defensive fighter, but outside of die hard boxing fans, he was an unknown. He vowed to change that and did so.In 2005, Floyd challenged the hopelessly overmatched WBC Light Welterweight Champion, Arturo “Thunder” Gatti. Gatti was a slugger, the “bloods and guts” warrior, that had been maneuvered into the championship because he drew a crowd. Floyd exploited the situation, used Gatti’s fan appeal and good guy image to begin to establish his character. He was the trash-talking villain and Gatti was the every man. Some even picked the power-puncher to upset Floyd, but it was a fool’s bet. Floyd easily, as predicted, dismantled and stopped Gatti, and found a place on the mainstream map.In 2007, Floyd made a great business move and took on Oscar De La Hoya, a spent force, but a huge name, and he played with “The Golden Boy” en route to a decision win. He was systematically becoming a household name on the backs of other household names. That, along with his work with the WWE, he had overcome his style problems with the casual boxing fans, and is a huge attraction. People want to see him lose.
As Floyd’s bodyguards rough up fans, and Money Mayweather throws money around, bragging about how loaded he is, Pacquiao fights. He is another every man…a hard worker that has worked his way up the ladder the roughest way possible. He has taken on the best available competition to get to where he is and has earned a shot at Mayweather, the only fighter left that has as much claim to the top spot as he does.
The story of this 2012 showdown, if it happens is your typical story: Good guy vs. bad guy.
Floyd is the bad guy. He is the loud, flamboyant, cursing, angry fighter. Pacquiao is the good guy, helping his impoverished country, being respectful to his opposition, and speaking quietly before each fight, never going out of his way to insult an opponent. Although these are the thoughts of many boxing fans, the truth isn’t exactly there.
Floyd is not a bad guy. I don’t know him personally, but the majority of his antics are to hype up the fights, get a larger gate, turn a bigger buck on the PPVs. He is a business man, and like Vince McMahon of the WWE knows, a heel can sell very well. In fact, Floyd has probably taken a great deal of pointers from the WWE.
This holds true for Manny too. I’m not claiming that he’s disrespectful, but when you reach a level, you have advisors and whatever makes you more money, you will do. Manny being the worker, the good guy, has helped line his pockets. It makes sense to be this character, even if it doesn’t represent you 100%.
Victor Ortiz and Juan Manuel Marquez are two fighters standing in the way of this super fight. Both men intend to be victorious and rewrite this story. If Ortiz should win, you can bet that he will face Pacquiao in his next fight. If Marquez should win, it will be vindication and may set up a fourth match with Pacquiao. There are many different scenarios that could happen, but if the most likely happens, Floyd and Manny win, we should have a 2012 showdown with your good guy vs. bad guy appeal.
Let’s hope that they can finally agree to a fight.
Source: ringsidereport.com
Tuesday 28 June 2011
Roger's net gains just edge out the Pacman -- The Sunday Sun
By Tony Jeffries, The Sunday Sun
IN boxing we've just found out that Filipino superstar and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao is the second highest-earning non-American athlete in the world, based on the list compiled by CNN Sports.
The highest is Swiss tennis star Roger Federer.
I struggled to believe this.
Even at the top level I never thought there was that much loot in tennis, but Federer’s enormous endorsement portfolio puts him at No 1.
He’s only buttons in front of Pacman, barely a quarter of a million dollars – buttons, yeah right!
The Filipino boxer and now congressman earned more than $50million for two bouts over the past 12 months.
Pacquiao earned an estimated $52,500,000 (£32,656,145.39) from his fights against Antonio Margarito and “Sugar” Shane Mosley. Federer got a whopping $52,781,940.
The other top 10 non-Americans were Formula One driver Fernando Alonso ($45,000,000), Barcelona footballer Lionel Messi ($38,800,000), former Manchester United player Cristiano Ronaldo ($38,800,000), basketballer Yao Ming ($35,686,100), Federer’s rival Rafael Nadal ($31,506,278), superbikes rider Valentino Rossi ($30,000,000), and footballers Wayne Rooney ($29,200,000) and Kaka ($27,300,000).
I was very surprised by the list for top-earning US athletes and the top two are both golfers. I never even thought a golfer was classed as an athlete!
It’s up there with darts for having to be fit.
Unless the golf buggy has got a flat battery it’s not much exercise!
Former world No 1 Tiger Woods topped the list with $62,294,116 (£38,741,297), followed by Phil Mickelson with $61,185,933.
LeBron James is the third ranking American top-earner with $44,500,000 despite having taken loads of stick over here this past week for his poor performances in the NBA basketball finals.
Source: sundaysun.co.uk
IN boxing we've just found out that Filipino superstar and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao is the second highest-earning non-American athlete in the world, based on the list compiled by CNN Sports.
The highest is Swiss tennis star Roger Federer.
I struggled to believe this.
Even at the top level I never thought there was that much loot in tennis, but Federer’s enormous endorsement portfolio puts him at No 1.
He’s only buttons in front of Pacman, barely a quarter of a million dollars – buttons, yeah right!
The Filipino boxer and now congressman earned more than $50million for two bouts over the past 12 months.
Pacquiao earned an estimated $52,500,000 (£32,656,145.39) from his fights against Antonio Margarito and “Sugar” Shane Mosley. Federer got a whopping $52,781,940.
The other top 10 non-Americans were Formula One driver Fernando Alonso ($45,000,000), Barcelona footballer Lionel Messi ($38,800,000), former Manchester United player Cristiano Ronaldo ($38,800,000), basketballer Yao Ming ($35,686,100), Federer’s rival Rafael Nadal ($31,506,278), superbikes rider Valentino Rossi ($30,000,000), and footballers Wayne Rooney ($29,200,000) and Kaka ($27,300,000).
I was very surprised by the list for top-earning US athletes and the top two are both golfers. I never even thought a golfer was classed as an athlete!
It’s up there with darts for having to be fit.
Unless the golf buggy has got a flat battery it’s not much exercise!
Former world No 1 Tiger Woods topped the list with $62,294,116 (£38,741,297), followed by Phil Mickelson with $61,185,933.
LeBron James is the third ranking American top-earner with $44,500,000 despite having taken loads of stick over here this past week for his poor performances in the NBA basketball finals.
Source: sundaysun.co.uk
Boxer Floyd Mayweather sued for alleged assault -- USA Today
By Cristina Silva, Associated Press
LAS VEGAS — A Nevada man claims boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. directed his bodyguards to attack him at a Las Vegas casino last year after the man tried to take a photograph of the undefeated champion and asked about a fight with another star boxer, according to a lawsuit filed Friday in state court in Las Vegas.
The lawsuit alleges Mayweather's bodyguards attacked Anthony Cliff near a valet parking stand at the Palms Casino Resort on March 27, 2010, after Mayweather accused Cliff of "disrespecting" him.
Mayweather's bodyguards allegedly struck Cliff in the face, slamming his head into the ground. They then kicked him repeatedly in his back and side, the lawsuit says.
Mayweather's attorney and a spokesman for the Palms did not immediately respond Monday to requests for comment.
The suit accuses Mayweather of assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent hiring, training, supervision and retention of employees.
Cliff claims he first spotted the boxer inside the casino and tried to take his photo. He was told by a bodyguard that he could not do so. The lawsuit alleges Cliff walked away, but later ran into Mayweather again at the valet stand. Cliff then asked someone in Mayweather's entourage about a possible match between Mayweather and another boxer.
The question seemed to infuriate Mayweather and his group, who surrounded Cliff and began threatening him, according to the lawsuit. Mayweather told Cliff he was disrespectful and allegedly give his bodyguards a "thumbs down" gesture, "which was a sign for the bodyguards to attack," the lawsuit claims.
The lawsuit does not clarify which Mayweather rival Cliff was asking about.
The Palms also was named in the 43-page lawsuit for allegedly failing to provide adequate security. Cliff claims the casino's valet and security staff did nothing to help him during or after the alleged beating.
Cliff claims he feared for his life after the assault.
Mayweather is scheduled to fight Victor Ortiz on Sept. 17. Meanwhile, fans have anxiously eyed stalled negotiations to pit Mayweather against Manny Pacquiao.
Mayweather has a history of court dealings.
Most recently, he failed to turn up for a court-ordered deposition in Las Vegas earlier this month in a federal lawsuit alleging he defamed Pacquiao. Mayweather and Pacquiao are considered among the best fighters in the world, though they've never met in the ring, partly because Mayweather's camp questioned Pacquiao's refusal to submit to strong drug testing.
Mayweather also faces felony charges stemming from a domestic argument and misdemeanor harassment and battery charges in separate cases.
The Las Vegas boxer is undefeated in 41 fights, having won titles in five divisions.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Source: usatoday.com
LAS VEGAS — A Nevada man claims boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. directed his bodyguards to attack him at a Las Vegas casino last year after the man tried to take a photograph of the undefeated champion and asked about a fight with another star boxer, according to a lawsuit filed Friday in state court in Las Vegas.
The lawsuit alleges Mayweather's bodyguards attacked Anthony Cliff near a valet parking stand at the Palms Casino Resort on March 27, 2010, after Mayweather accused Cliff of "disrespecting" him.
Mayweather's bodyguards allegedly struck Cliff in the face, slamming his head into the ground. They then kicked him repeatedly in his back and side, the lawsuit says.
Mayweather's attorney and a spokesman for the Palms did not immediately respond Monday to requests for comment.
The suit accuses Mayweather of assault and battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent hiring, training, supervision and retention of employees.
Cliff claims he first spotted the boxer inside the casino and tried to take his photo. He was told by a bodyguard that he could not do so. The lawsuit alleges Cliff walked away, but later ran into Mayweather again at the valet stand. Cliff then asked someone in Mayweather's entourage about a possible match between Mayweather and another boxer.
The question seemed to infuriate Mayweather and his group, who surrounded Cliff and began threatening him, according to the lawsuit. Mayweather told Cliff he was disrespectful and allegedly give his bodyguards a "thumbs down" gesture, "which was a sign for the bodyguards to attack," the lawsuit claims.
The lawsuit does not clarify which Mayweather rival Cliff was asking about.
The Palms also was named in the 43-page lawsuit for allegedly failing to provide adequate security. Cliff claims the casino's valet and security staff did nothing to help him during or after the alleged beating.
Cliff claims he feared for his life after the assault.
Mayweather is scheduled to fight Victor Ortiz on Sept. 17. Meanwhile, fans have anxiously eyed stalled negotiations to pit Mayweather against Manny Pacquiao.
Mayweather has a history of court dealings.
Most recently, he failed to turn up for a court-ordered deposition in Las Vegas earlier this month in a federal lawsuit alleging he defamed Pacquiao. Mayweather and Pacquiao are considered among the best fighters in the world, though they've never met in the ring, partly because Mayweather's camp questioned Pacquiao's refusal to submit to strong drug testing.
Mayweather also faces felony charges stemming from a domestic argument and misdemeanor harassment and battery charges in separate cases.
The Las Vegas boxer is undefeated in 41 fights, having won titles in five divisions.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Source: usatoday.com
Pacquiao should agree to Mayweather's demand and take the random blood testing -- 8CountNews
By Brad Cooney, 8CountNews.com
Taking the random blood test up until the day of the fight will do a few things. Firstly, it forces Floyd's hand. If Manny agrees to take random blood tests up until the day of the fight, Floyd will be forced into a corner. Floyd will either have to agree to fight Manny, or he will choose to not fight. If Pacquiao agrees to the random blood testing up until the day of the fight, Floyd has no more cards to play.
As of right now, by Pacquiao not agreeing to random blood testing up until the day of the fight, Floyd still has a card to play. Floyd and his fans still have a card to play, they will continue to say that Manny is hiding something. By agreeing to the terms, Manny takes that card off of the table and away from Floyd Mayweather. If Manny went all in and agreed to everything, even Floyd's fans would have to jump ship if he still didn't agree to fight
The biggest card that Floyd and his fans have right now is the fact that Manny won't take the blood test up until the day before the fight. They keep trumping that card telling the world that Manny must be hiding something. Manny would take that card and make them all eat it just by agreeing to the blood tests up until the day of the fight.
Agreeing to the random blood test up until the day of the fight is the best thing that Manny could do right now. He would finally get Mayweather into the ring and have his opportunity to silence Floyd and his fans.
Source: 8countnews.com
Pound for Pound King Manny Pacquiao should agree to random blood testing up until the day of the fight. Why do I think he should agree? Well it's not because I think the man is doing steroids
, because I don't. I think Manny is clean, and he earned his victories fair and square. So why should Manny have to take the blood test?
, because I don't. I think Manny is clean, and he earned his victories fair and square. So why should Manny have to take the blood test?Taking the random blood test up until the day of the fight will do a few things. Firstly, it forces Floyd's hand. If Manny agrees to take random blood tests up until the day of the fight, Floyd will be forced into a corner. Floyd will either have to agree to fight Manny, or he will choose to not fight. If Pacquiao agrees to the random blood testing up until the day of the fight, Floyd has no more cards to play.As of right now, by Pacquiao not agreeing to random blood testing up until the day of the fight, Floyd still has a card to play. Floyd and his fans still have a card to play, they will continue to say that Manny is hiding something. By agreeing to the terms, Manny takes that card off of the table and away from Floyd Mayweather. If Manny went all in and agreed to everything, even Floyd's fans would have to jump ship if he still didn't agree to fight
The biggest card that Floyd and his fans have right now is the fact that Manny won't take the blood test up until the day before the fight. They keep trumping that card telling the world that Manny must be hiding something. Manny would take that card and make them all eat it just by agreeing to the blood tests up until the day of the fight.
Agreeing to the random blood test up until the day of the fight is the best thing that Manny could do right now. He would finally get Mayweather into the ring and have his opportunity to silence Floyd and his fans.
Source: 8countnews.com
Monday 27 June 2011
DTI taps Pacquiao as endorser of bill that will boost PH garments exports to US -- Philippine Daily Inquirer
By Amy R. Remo, Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry is sending boxing champ Manny Pacquiao to help endorse to US legislators the passage of the Save Our Industries Act (Save Act), a bill expected to give the Philippine garments industry a much-needed boost.
Trade Undersecretary Cristino L. Panlilio told reporters that they were sending Pacquiao together with the Philippine trade attaché to seek the support of US legislators for this landmark piece of legislation.
“I hail the filing of this bill. This is something we have worked hard for since last year. The Department of Foreign Affairs, led by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario and our new Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr. have also adopted the Save Act,” Panlilio said.
“This is a major step, but the work is not over. We must work harder now to convince more senators and congressmen to support this bill. We are calling on all Filipinos here who have relatives in the US to please inform them about the Save Act. They can do their own share in getting in touch with their senators and congressmen,” Panlilio added.
Trade Secretary Gregory L. Domingo, meanwhile, noted that the filing of the Save Act would be a “great development” in “achieving our goal to invigorate the garments industry.”
Panlilio earlier said the passage of the Save Act would benefit both the United States textile industry and local garment manufacturers.
“This is a landmark piece of legislation that will redound to great benefits for both our people. It will revive the Philippines’ garments industry, which has been in the doldrums ever since the end of the quota regime. At the same time, (it will) increase exports of US textiles to the Philippines and other Asean countries to up to $500 million. This definitely is a win-win solution,” Panlilio had said.
The Save Act is expected to provide enough incentives for garments exporters in the Philippines to expand their operations through a grant of preferential treatment from the United States.
The bill supports the country’s inclusion in the 809 Program, which gives various benefits to US trading partners that produce garments out of US-made fabric or yarn.
Garment manufacturers from Mexico, the Caribbean and Andean countries already enjoy preferential treatment, with benefits ranging from lower duties to quota-free and duty-free entry into the United States.
Under the 809 component of the bill, US-made fabric and yarns cut and wholly assembled in the Philippines would qualify to re-enter the US duty-free.
Garments made of US spun yarn or extruded yarn formed in the Philippines, on the other hand, would be allowed to re-enter the US at just half of the most favored nation (MFN) duty.
Introduced in June 2009 by Washington State Representative Jim McDermott and California Representative Brian Bilbray, the Save Act also had a companion bill in the US Senate filed by Senators Kit Bond and Daniel Inouye.
Source: business.inquirer.net
MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Trade and Industry is sending boxing champ Manny Pacquiao to help endorse to US legislators the passage of the Save Our Industries Act (Save Act), a bill expected to give the Philippine garments industry a much-needed boost.
Trade Undersecretary Cristino L. Panlilio told reporters that they were sending Pacquiao together with the Philippine trade attaché to seek the support of US legislators for this landmark piece of legislation.
“I hail the filing of this bill. This is something we have worked hard for since last year. The Department of Foreign Affairs, led by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario and our new Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr. have also adopted the Save Act,” Panlilio said.
“This is a major step, but the work is not over. We must work harder now to convince more senators and congressmen to support this bill. We are calling on all Filipinos here who have relatives in the US to please inform them about the Save Act. They can do their own share in getting in touch with their senators and congressmen,” Panlilio added.Trade Secretary Gregory L. Domingo, meanwhile, noted that the filing of the Save Act would be a “great development” in “achieving our goal to invigorate the garments industry.”
Panlilio earlier said the passage of the Save Act would benefit both the United States textile industry and local garment manufacturers.
“This is a landmark piece of legislation that will redound to great benefits for both our people. It will revive the Philippines’ garments industry, which has been in the doldrums ever since the end of the quota regime. At the same time, (it will) increase exports of US textiles to the Philippines and other Asean countries to up to $500 million. This definitely is a win-win solution,” Panlilio had said.
The Save Act is expected to provide enough incentives for garments exporters in the Philippines to expand their operations through a grant of preferential treatment from the United States.
The bill supports the country’s inclusion in the 809 Program, which gives various benefits to US trading partners that produce garments out of US-made fabric or yarn.
Garment manufacturers from Mexico, the Caribbean and Andean countries already enjoy preferential treatment, with benefits ranging from lower duties to quota-free and duty-free entry into the United States.
Under the 809 component of the bill, US-made fabric and yarns cut and wholly assembled in the Philippines would qualify to re-enter the US duty-free.
Garments made of US spun yarn or extruded yarn formed in the Philippines, on the other hand, would be allowed to re-enter the US at just half of the most favored nation (MFN) duty.
Introduced in June 2009 by Washington State Representative Jim McDermott and California Representative Brian Bilbray, the Save Act also had a companion bill in the US Senate filed by Senators Kit Bond and Daniel Inouye.
Source: business.inquirer.net
Pacman insists Marquez is dangerous -- Manila Bulletin
By NICK GIONGCO, Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao is not looking at Juan Manuel Marquez as somebody out to cash a paycheck and retire.
Told about the overwhelming 8-1 odds in his favor, Pacquiao told the Bulletin over the weekend that Marquez remains a dangerous foe and that taking him for granted is tantamount to jumping off a cliff.
Pacquiao is facing Marquez on Nov. 12 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and despite the odds, the Filipino star said he has to be in top shape.
“You all saw our first two fights and based on that alone, you can tell he is somebody not to be taken lightly,” said Pacquiao, who drew with Marquez in 2004 and narrowly beat the Mexican in the rematch in 2008.
While the rubber match is more than four months away, Pacquiao has already calendared the start of training camp and the site of his first month of preparation.
“We’ll go to Baguio again in September and then to Los Angeles (for the second half of training camp),” said Pacquiao, who will be risking his stature as pound-for-pound king more than the World Boxing Organization welterweight title that he will put on the line.
Pacquiao let out a hearty laugh when told that based on the odds, the only way Marquez could win against him is if Marquez is allowed to bring in a machete on top of the ring.
“As I have always said, it’s not right to be overconfident,” said Pacquiao, who was listed as the underdog the last time when he met Oscar De La Hoya in Dec. 2008, a fight so lopsided that the Golden Boy announced his retirement two months after tasting a stinging stoppage loss.
Source: mb.com.ph
MANILA, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao is not looking at Juan Manuel Marquez as somebody out to cash a paycheck and retire.
Told about the overwhelming 8-1 odds in his favor, Pacquiao told the Bulletin over the weekend that Marquez remains a dangerous foe and that taking him for granted is tantamount to jumping off a cliff.
Pacquiao is facing Marquez on Nov. 12 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas and despite the odds, the Filipino star said he has to be in top shape.“You all saw our first two fights and based on that alone, you can tell he is somebody not to be taken lightly,” said Pacquiao, who drew with Marquez in 2004 and narrowly beat the Mexican in the rematch in 2008.
While the rubber match is more than four months away, Pacquiao has already calendared the start of training camp and the site of his first month of preparation.
“We’ll go to Baguio again in September and then to Los Angeles (for the second half of training camp),” said Pacquiao, who will be risking his stature as pound-for-pound king more than the World Boxing Organization welterweight title that he will put on the line.
Pacquiao let out a hearty laugh when told that based on the odds, the only way Marquez could win against him is if Marquez is allowed to bring in a machete on top of the ring.
“As I have always said, it’s not right to be overconfident,” said Pacquiao, who was listed as the underdog the last time when he met Oscar De La Hoya in Dec. 2008, a fight so lopsided that the Golden Boy announced his retirement two months after tasting a stinging stoppage loss.
Source: mb.com.ph
"I'm waiting on the call from Bob Arum" - Mike Jones feels ready for Pacquiao -- Examiner
By Chris Robinson, Examiner.com
Philadelphia native and welterweight contender Mike Jones kept the ball rolling last night with a 2nd round TKO over Kansas' Raul Munoz in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The win followed a previously solid victory by the 28-year old Jones, who this past February clearly won his rematch with Jesus Soto Karass via decision inside of the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas underneath Nonito Donaire's thrilling TKO over Fernando Montiel.
Possessing great size, length, and power to boot, Jones is an intriguing character and seems to have the body to fill out well at 154 pounds in the near future. There seem to be an endless list of fights for him to consider but at the moment he seems to have his eye on one of the sport's biggest names; Manny Pacquiao.
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Jones is currently rated #1 in the WBO rankings, the belt that Pacquiao has held since his November 2009 thrashing of Miguel Cotto at the MGM Grand. At the moment Pacquiao is in line for a November 12th encounter with rival Juan Manuel Marquez inside of the same facility, seeing of course that Marquez can get by Likar Ramos next month, but Jones is wasting no time in throwing his name into the fray for possible contention against one of the sport's biggest cash cows.Advertisement
"I am waiting for the phone call from Bob Arum. If anything happens to Marquez on July 16th, I will take the fight with Pacquiao. He is such a great warrior. Let's see how he deals with my right hand. I am much more confident now and am ready for big fights," Jones said after his victory in a BoxingScene.com piece.
Jones' words shouldn't be dismissed but he honestly hasn't done enough for such a coveted shot, at least in my opinion. Jones would be better served by looking for fights against the likes of Pawel Wolak, Kermit Cintron, Joshua Clottey, and even the winner of the upcoming rematch between Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito before eyeing Pacquiao.
Jones doesn't need to rush things right now. He's in a great position and if he keeps winning then surely a big fight will come his way.
Source: examiner.com
Philadelphia native and welterweight contender Mike Jones kept the ball rolling last night with a 2nd round TKO over Kansas' Raul Munoz in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The win followed a previously solid victory by the 28-year old Jones, who this past February clearly won his rematch with Jesus Soto Karass via decision inside of the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas underneath Nonito Donaire's thrilling TKO over Fernando Montiel.
Possessing great size, length, and power to boot, Jones is an intriguing character and seems to have the body to fill out well at 154 pounds in the near future. There seem to be an endless list of fights for him to consider but at the moment he seems to have his eye on one of the sport's biggest names; Manny Pacquiao.
Jones is currently rated #1 in the WBO rankings, the belt that Pacquiao has held since his November 2009 thrashing of Miguel Cotto at the MGM Grand. At the moment Pacquiao is in line for a November 12th encounter with rival Juan Manuel Marquez inside of the same facility, seeing of course that Marquez can get by Likar Ramos next month, but Jones is wasting no time in throwing his name into the fray for possible contention against one of the sport's biggest cash cows."I am waiting for the phone call from Bob Arum. If anything happens to Marquez on July 16th, I will take the fight with Pacquiao. He is such a great warrior. Let's see how he deals with my right hand. I am much more confident now and am ready for big fights," Jones said after his victory in a BoxingScene.com piece.
Jones' words shouldn't be dismissed but he honestly hasn't done enough for such a coveted shot, at least in my opinion. Jones would be better served by looking for fights against the likes of Pawel Wolak, Kermit Cintron, Joshua Clottey, and even the winner of the upcoming rematch between Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito before eyeing Pacquiao.
Jones doesn't need to rush things right now. He's in a great position and if he keeps winning then surely a big fight will come his way.
Source: examiner.com
Pacquiao 8-1 favorite vs Marquez -- Manila Bulletin
By NICK GIONGCO, Manila Bulletin
The Pacquiao-Marquez fight will be contested at a catchweight of 145 lbs with the Filipino’s World Boxing Organization welterweight also on the line when they lock horns at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao has been chilling out the last few weeks but is expected to return to work mode as the celebrated Sarangani congressman when he gets back to Manila this coming week.
“I have to attend to a lot of things and look forward to the SONA of President Noynoy Aquino (in July),” said the 32-year-old Pacquiao, widely acknowledged as boxing’s pound-for-pound king and a certified all-time great.
In the past, Pacquiao has graced a few SONA under the administration of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, having been mentioned several times as a source of inspiration for his ring prowess.
After the SONA, Pacquiao’s schedule will start to pick up once again as Top Rank chief Bob Arum is setting the stage for a global promotional tour of the Pacquiao-Marquez trilogy starting in late-August in Manila.
From Manila, the tour will go to several Asian cities, London, New York, Los Angeles and finally to Marquez’s lair in Mexico City.
Source: mb.com.ph
MANILA, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao
was aghast when told about the odds for his Nov. 12 rubber match with his Mexican nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez.
was aghast when told about the odds for his Nov. 12 rubber match with his Mexican nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez.“Grabe naman ‘yan, (That’s too much),” Pacquao, sounding a bit embarrassed, told the Bulletin on Saturday afternoon from the paradise island of Boracay, where he has been holed up the last week for some much-needed R&R with his family.
Pacquiao has been listed as -800, while Marquez is +500, according to sportsbook. Based on this line, an $800 bet on Pacquiao would only win $100, while a measly $100 wager on Marquez would win $500.
The Pacquiao-Marquez fight will be contested at a catchweight of 145 lbs with the Filipino’s World Boxing Organization welterweight also on the line when they lock horns at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
Pacquiao has been chilling out the last few weeks but is expected to return to work mode as the celebrated Sarangani congressman when he gets back to Manila this coming week.
“I have to attend to a lot of things and look forward to the SONA of President Noynoy Aquino (in July),” said the 32-year-old Pacquiao, widely acknowledged as boxing’s pound-for-pound king and a certified all-time great.
In the past, Pacquiao has graced a few SONA under the administration of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, having been mentioned several times as a source of inspiration for his ring prowess.
After the SONA, Pacquiao’s schedule will start to pick up once again as Top Rank chief Bob Arum is setting the stage for a global promotional tour of the Pacquiao-Marquez trilogy starting in late-August in Manila.
From Manila, the tour will go to several Asian cities, London, New York, Los Angeles and finally to Marquez’s lair in Mexico City.
Source: mb.com.ph
Thursday 23 June 2011
Manny Pacquiao credits Filipinos for his 'strength', Not PEDs -- Examiner
By Rick Rockwell, Examiner.com
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Despite what critics like Floyd Mayweather Jr. want you to think, Manny Pacquiao does not get his "strength" by cheating through taking PEDs, he draws it from his fellow countrymen whom have supported him throughout his entire career. On Tuesday, Manny Pacquiao made the following comments about the true source of his "strength", according to Philstar.com:
“There is bad news all the time in my country. There is not enough food. We have typhoons. There is corruption in the government and too much crime. So many people are suffering and have no hope. Then, I bring them good news and they are happy. I know that millions of people are praying for me and that gives me strength. My fight is not only for me, but for my country.”
This is another example why so many boxing fans love Manny Pacquiao. His humbleness and God fearing ways have endeared him to fans all over the world. IN the summer of 2010, Manny Pacquiao became a congressman because of his love for his countrymen and his desire to help those in need. It was a way for Manny to give back to the people that have supported him so much.
When Pacquiao fights, his entire country shuts down to watch him. And when he wins, the entire country celebrates as if they won too. It's an incredible relationship between Manny and his countrymen. A relationship that Floyd Jr. even commented on a few weeks ago when Floyd stated that he likes how Manny's fans will love him no matter what.
Pacquiao will once again cause his country to shut down in November as he fights his rival Juan Manuel Marquez for the 3rd time. The fight will be live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Nevada, on November 12th. The first two fights between JMM and Manny ended in controversy. The 2004 fight ended in a draw but many critics believe that Manny had won. The second fight ended in a split decision but many believe that JMM won. Freddie Roach and other members of Team Pacquiao are rooting for Manny to KO JMM and end this feud once and for all.
Source: examiner.com
“There is bad news all the time in my country. There is not enough food. We have typhoons. There is corruption in the government and too much crime. So many people are suffering and have no hope. Then, I bring them good news and they are happy. I know that millions of people are praying for me and that gives me strength. My fight is not only for me, but for my country.”
This is another example why so many boxing fans love Manny Pacquiao. His humbleness and God fearing ways have endeared him to fans all over the world. IN the summer of 2010, Manny Pacquiao became a congressman because of his love for his countrymen and his desire to help those in need. It was a way for Manny to give back to the people that have supported him so much.
When Pacquiao fights, his entire country shuts down to watch him. And when he wins, the entire country celebrates as if they won too. It's an incredible relationship between Manny and his countrymen. A relationship that Floyd Jr. even commented on a few weeks ago when Floyd stated that he likes how Manny's fans will love him no matter what.
Pacquiao will once again cause his country to shut down in November as he fights his rival Juan Manuel Marquez for the 3rd time. The fight will be live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Nevada, on November 12th. The first two fights between JMM and Manny ended in controversy. The 2004 fight ended in a draw but many critics believe that Manny had won. The second fight ended in a split decision but many believe that JMM won. Freddie Roach and other members of Team Pacquiao are rooting for Manny to KO JMM and end this feud once and for all.
Source: examiner.com
Ariza On Mayweather’s Claims Of Pacquiao Drug Use: “Ridiculous” -- Eastside Boxing
By James Slater, Eastside Boxing
“What really builds muscle the safe and healthy way - the smart way - the way all my fighters do is this legal substance called protein,” Ariza stated. “By making sure Pacquiao gets adequate protein and amino acids this will reduce the chance of any negative effects we do no want to happen. For someone to think it is a waste of protein because they have also consumed some beef or chicken is dead wrong. So the claim of Mayweather that Pacquiao is using some drug stuff to make him bigger and stronger is ridiculous.”
Of course, Pacquiao himself was so offended at Mayweather’s allegations that he took the matter to the legal authorities (with “Money” refusing to attend court a few days ago, as reported everywhere). And now Ariza has given his simple explanation for the boxing superstar’s strength and power. Protein? That’s all it is? If only all other boxers knew!
Seriously, though, will those suspicious of Pac-Man’s achievements be willing to buy Ariza’s explanation for his ability to have come up through a staggering eight weight classes? From a waif-like 106-pounder all the way up to a 154-pound world champion Pacquiao has climbed, and a number of people cannot accept that this was done by wholly legal means. There is absolutely no evidence that proves Manny has ever resorted to cheating, and as such we must applaud his greatness the same way we attribute it to nothing more than uncommon skill, sheer hard work and of course, Ariza’s protein shakes.
It seems unlikely the critics will ever be silent, but Ariza has spelled it out: protein is the only substance he insists his fighters consume.
Source: eastsideboxing.com
Well-known strength and conditioning expert Alex Ariza, who has worked with and is working with among others, Manny Pacquiao
and Amir Khan, has been moved to write on his official blog what it is that makes superstar Pac-Man as strong as he is. No doubt extremely annoyed at the allegations Floyd Mayweather Junior and others have made with regards to the P-4-P king cheating by taking illegal, strength-building stimulants, Ariza has revealed the simple, legal secret of Pac-Man’s success: a sufficient intake of protein.
and Amir Khan, has been moved to write on his official blog what it is that makes superstar Pac-Man as strong as he is. No doubt extremely annoyed at the allegations Floyd Mayweather Junior and others have made with regards to the P-4-P king cheating by taking illegal, strength-building stimulants, Ariza has revealed the simple, legal secret of Pac-Man’s success: a sufficient intake of protein.“What really builds muscle the safe and healthy way - the smart way - the way all my fighters do is this legal substance called protein,” Ariza stated. “By making sure Pacquiao gets adequate protein and amino acids this will reduce the chance of any negative effects we do no want to happen. For someone to think it is a waste of protein because they have also consumed some beef or chicken is dead wrong. So the claim of Mayweather that Pacquiao is using some drug stuff to make him bigger and stronger is ridiculous.”Of course, Pacquiao himself was so offended at Mayweather’s allegations that he took the matter to the legal authorities (with “Money” refusing to attend court a few days ago, as reported everywhere). And now Ariza has given his simple explanation for the boxing superstar’s strength and power. Protein? That’s all it is? If only all other boxers knew!
Seriously, though, will those suspicious of Pac-Man’s achievements be willing to buy Ariza’s explanation for his ability to have come up through a staggering eight weight classes? From a waif-like 106-pounder all the way up to a 154-pound world champion Pacquiao has climbed, and a number of people cannot accept that this was done by wholly legal means. There is absolutely no evidence that proves Manny has ever resorted to cheating, and as such we must applaud his greatness the same way we attribute it to nothing more than uncommon skill, sheer hard work and of course, Ariza’s protein shakes.
It seems unlikely the critics will ever be silent, but Ariza has spelled it out: protein is the only substance he insists his fighters consume.
Source: eastsideboxing.com
Monday 20 June 2011
Manny Pacquiao – Floyd Mayweather JR – The Popularity Contest Settled -- Ringside Report
By Siri Karri, Ringside Report
Chocolate or Vanilla?
Team Edward or Team Jacob? (If you don’t get the reference that means you are a good person at heart)
Batman or Superman? (Bruce Wayne over Wuss Kent any day)
Somehow, determining the Pound-for-Pound King of boxing has divided fans just as handily as the trivial questions preceding it . . . in a time when boxing is constantly under attack and needs its fans united more now than ever. The debate isn’t one-sided by any means; Mayweather is an astounding 41-0 and Pacquiao is not far behind at 53-3-2. Mayweather represents the epitome of technical brilliance, while Pacquiao is the scrappy fire plug with hand speed to rival Bruce Lee. Floyd has enjoyed an unending stretch of dominance, while Pacquiao has enjoyed playing underdog knockout king for a good part of his career.
Each of their strengths counterbalances the other’s standstill; Mayweather got his opponents when they were younger, but Pacquiao usually finished his opponents in a more devastating fashion. Mayweather is undefeated, but Manny has a good deal more professional fights as well as belts.
That’s where the debate tends to get ugly.
This is the part where, after a skillful debate, fans often devolve into attacking their opposition on facets that have only minimal significance. Fans of “Money” Mayweather will point out Manny’s ability to fight at much larger weight classes while still physically overwhelming opponents and immediately accuse him of steroids. “Pac-man” Pacquiao fans will meanwhile attack Mayweather on his host of personal problems (despite their insignificance to his boxing skill) and accuse him of ducking Pacquiao recently when he poses the only legitimate threat to his legacy.
This is going to either be revelatory or irritating to both parties, but I’m going to go ahead and point out what this is nothing more than a popularity contest.
This is like voting for senior class president.
On the one hand you have “Frank Moneyway”. He has a perfect 4.0 GPA in his high school career but he’s been slacking off on his extra-curricular activities recently and his ex-girlfriend can attest to the fact that he’s a royal a-hole with an ego that could blot out the sun. However, there’s no denying that this guy was the best dude for the job last
Standing opposite to him is “Manvel Packer”, a kid who moved to the school only a year ago. He has a 3.7 GPA and literally does every sport imaginable, not to mention that he’s taking advanced classes at the local university. He’s also charming to a fault; he could sell ice to the Eskimos and firewood to the Devil. There are some unsettling rumors, however, that he’s been cheating to keep his high GPA at the University and that his parents pulled strings to get him onto the varsity lacrosse team.
You’d think it’s an impartial vote, but it’s not. Many students have had lunch with Manny and are taken up by his foreign charm. On the other hand, Frank has had four years to gather legions of admirers who praise his skill and tenure.
I’ll be honest, I believe Manny Pacquiao is the pound-for-pound king and is 2nd behind Sugar Ray Robinson for the greatest of all time. I’ll cite his spectacular athleticism, his knockout victories, his absurd hand speed, literally everything I can to convince you that I’m right. But in the end, I know what this is.
It’s a popularity contest.
Source: ringsidereport.com
Chocolate or Vanilla?
Team Edward or Team Jacob? (If you don’t get the reference that means you are a good person at heart)
Batman or Superman? (Bruce Wayne over Wuss Kent any day)
Floyd Mayweather or Manny Pacquiao
?
?Somehow, determining the Pound-for-Pound King of boxing has divided fans just as handily as the trivial questions preceding it . . . in a time when boxing is constantly under attack and needs its fans united more now than ever. Each of their strengths counterbalances the other’s standstill; Mayweather got his opponents when they were younger, but Pacquiao usually finished his opponents in a more devastating fashion. Mayweather is undefeated, but Manny has a good deal more professional fights as well as belts.
That’s where the debate tends to get ugly.
This is the part where, after a skillful debate, fans often devolve into attacking their opposition on facets that have only minimal significance. Fans of “Money” Mayweather will point out Manny’s ability to fight at much larger weight classes while still physically overwhelming opponents and immediately accuse him of steroids. “Pac-man” Pacquiao fans will meanwhile attack Mayweather on his host of personal problems (despite their insignificance to his boxing skill) and accuse him of ducking Pacquiao recently when he poses the only legitimate threat to his legacy.
This is going to either be revelatory or irritating to both parties, but I’m going to go ahead and point out what this is nothing more than a popularity contest.
This is like voting for senior class president.
On the one hand you have “Frank Moneyway”. He has a perfect 4.0 GPA in his high school career but he’s been slacking off on his extra-curricular activities recently and his ex-girlfriend can attest to the fact that he’s a royal a-hole with an ego that could blot out the sun. However, there’s no denying that this guy was the best dude for the job last
Standing opposite to him is “Manvel Packer”, a kid who moved to the school only a year ago. He has a 3.7 GPA and literally does every sport imaginable, not to mention that he’s taking advanced classes at the local university. He’s also charming to a fault; he could sell ice to the Eskimos and firewood to the Devil. There are some unsettling rumors, however, that he’s been cheating to keep his high GPA at the University and that his parents pulled strings to get him onto the varsity lacrosse team.
You’d think it’s an impartial vote, but it’s not. Many students have had lunch with Manny and are taken up by his foreign charm. On the other hand, Frank has had four years to gather legions of admirers who praise his skill and tenure.
I’ll be honest, I believe Manny Pacquiao is the pound-for-pound king and is 2nd behind Sugar Ray Robinson for the greatest of all time. I’ll cite his spectacular athleticism, his knockout victories, his absurd hand speed, literally everything I can to convince you that I’m right. But in the end, I know what this is.
It’s a popularity contest.
Source: ringsidereport.com
Has Manny Pacquiao finally silenced Floyd Mayweather Jr. -- Examiner
By Rick Rockwell, Examiner.com
On Friday, unbeaten American boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. skipped a court ordered deposition in the defamation suit that Manny Pacquiao filed by the beginning of 2010. Normally, the brash boxer enjoys to hear himself talk but this time Floyd decided to remain silent, begging the question "Has Manny finally silenced Floyd?". In a Friday report by The Grand Rapids Press, Pacquiao's attorney Daniel Petrocelli said that Floyd was supposed to answer questions about his accusations of Manny taking PEDs, but decided to skip out instead.
For 1 1/2 years, nobody could get Floyd Mayweather Jr. to stop talking about Manny taking the drug tests and implying that Pacquiao had uses PEDs. And now, when the time comes for him to provide factual evidence, Floyd remains silent.
All Floyd had to do was apologize to Pacquiao for making these harsh comments. A few weeks ago, two other defendants Oscar De La Hoya and Richard Schaefer formally and publicly apologized to Pacquiao and they were removed from the defamation suit. But Floyd decided to do the opposite. Instead, Floyd makes "take the test" t-shirts, which were clearly aimed at Pacquiao to adhere to his drug testing demands.
Source: examiner.com
On Friday, unbeaten American boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. skipped a court ordered deposition in the defamation suit that Manny Pacquiao filed by the beginning of 2010. Normally, the brash boxer enjoys to hear himself talk but this time Floyd decided to remain silent, begging the question "Has Manny finally silenced Floyd?". In a Friday report by The Grand Rapids Press, Pacquiao's attorney Daniel Petrocelli said that Floyd was supposed to answer questions about his accusations of Manny taking PEDs, but decided to skip out instead.
For 1 1/2 years, nobody could get Floyd Mayweather Jr. to stop talking about Manny taking the drug tests and implying that Pacquiao had uses PEDs. And now, when the time comes for him to provide factual evidence, Floyd remains silent.
All Floyd had to do was apologize to Pacquiao for making these harsh comments. A few weeks ago, two other defendants Oscar De La Hoya and Richard Schaefer formally and publicly apologized to Pacquiao and they were removed from the defamation suit. But Floyd decided to do the opposite. Instead, Floyd makes "take the test" t-shirts, which were clearly aimed at Pacquiao to adhere to his drug testing demands.
Source: examiner.com
Wednesday 15 June 2011
It's Manny Pacquiao's world, we just live in it: Nike line, global media tour -- Examiner
By Michael Marley, Examiner.com
Unless and until Floyd Mayweather Jr. clears his decks and states affirmatively “I want Manny Pacquiao next,” I guess we really can’t call he and the Pinoy Idol rivals.
Pacman will get busy with the third chapter of his rivalry against Juan Manuel Marquez on Nov. 12 while Mayweather ends a 16-month absence from his day job on Sept. 17 in a Las Vegas ring against tenacious southpaw Vicious Victor Ortiz.
In another sphere, it might be said that Pacquiao is starting to rival big sporting endorsers such as Michael Jordan and the now diminished Tiger Woods.Pacman promoter Bob Arum revealed to me Tuesday night that the world’s top pound for pound fighter (again, unless and until Unbeaten “Money” proves otherwise) will come back to the United States for a family vacation six days hence.
According to Arum, wife Jinkee and their four children will have Manny’s full attention on the sojourn except for one huge commercial visit.
“Manny is going to Oregon, up to Nike headquarters to meet the big boss, Phil Knight, and all the other top people with the company. Nike is planning a huge Pacman product line along the lines of Air Jordan and all the things they did with and for Michael Jordan,” Arum said.
You might call it a vacation with a “Swoosh” pit stop.
After the weeklong stay in SoCal, Arum said, Pacquiao and family will return to the Philippines.
As far as the massive buildup for the third bout between Pacman and the slick Mexican counterpuncher, Arum said the media tour is going global.
“We will start at the end of August in the Phillipines,” the 79 year old promoter said. “We start in Manila and then we will be going over to Singapore, where they have huge interest in Manny.
“We’ll also go to the Middle East, to Abu Dhabi. Then we come back to America and we will finish the media tour up, appropriately enough, in Mexico City.”
Pacquiao is really starting to embellish the "world" part of world champion, is he not?
Thus proving, I guess, it is Pacquiao’s World…we just live in it.
(mlcmarley@aol.com)
Source: examiner.com
Forget Floyd Mayweather JR: Manny Pacquiao is the Pound for Pound King -- Ringside Report
By Donald C. Stewart, Ringside Report
Manny Pacquiao, 53-3-2 38 KO’s, is undoubtedly the best pound for pound fighter on the planet.
What is also undoubted is that the potential of a fight against Floyd Mayweather, JR., is probably the most boring non event in sport. But if the Pac Man is not going to get it on with the undefeated Mayweather who is he likely to face after his third battle with Juan Manuel Marquez.
With a draw and a split decision defeat already between the pair this is a very decent fight for both but the unusual nature of a third professional contest seems to suggest there isn’t a lot of decent competition out there for the best fighter on the planet.
Or is there just a lot of guys who could, perhaps should but just wouldn’t? After all Pacquiao will fight whoever is in front of him and a fight against him means worldwide coverage and potentially, should he win, riches beyond belief for the successful fighter.
There are contenders out there and the number of undefeated guys who could make up the numbers in the ruing is beginning to grow. The problem may be that they need to prepare to be ready for Pacquiao.
It would or could lead us into the same problem as the Heavyweights. There have been few if any credible contenders for years to the Klitschko’s and the pound for pound rankings has these two big guys in the top three says far too much about where we are and far too little about how we get out of there!
For Pacquiao it is a worry that he runs out of creditable opponents but is also a worry for the rest of us as Pacquiao may hang up the gloves, leaving us to reflect on his glory rather than salivate over another contest where this time may be the time he loses. So what is out there? There are a few. Here are the potential highlights!
What about Timothy Bradley?
Roll on Marquez III and Mayweather – the return.
Source: ringsidereport.com
Manny Pacquiao, 53-3-2 38 KO’s, is undoubtedly the best pound for pound fighter on the planet.
What is also undoubted is that the potential of a fight against Floyd Mayweather, JR., is probably the most boring non event in sport. But if the Pac Man is not going to get it on with the undefeated Mayweather who is he likely to face after his third battle with Juan Manuel Marquez.
With a draw and a split decision defeat already between the pair this is a very decent fight for both but the unusual nature of a third professional contest seems to suggest there isn’t a lot of decent competition out there for the best fighter on the planet.
Or is there just a lot of guys who could, perhaps should but just wouldn’t? After all Pacquiao will fight whoever is in front of him and a fight against him means worldwide coverage and potentially, should he win, riches beyond belief for the successful fighter.
There are contenders out there and the number of undefeated guys who could make up the numbers in the ruing is beginning to grow. The problem may be that they need to prepare to be ready for Pacquiao.
It would or could lead us into the same problem as the Heavyweights. There have been few if any credible contenders for years to the Klitschko’s and the pound for pound rankings has these two big guys in the top three says far too much about where we are and far too little about how we get out of there!
For Pacquiao it is a worry that he runs out of creditable opponents but is also a worry for the rest of us as Pacquiao may hang up the gloves, leaving us to reflect on his glory rather than salivate over another contest where this time may be the time he loses. So what is out there? There are a few. Here are the potential highlights!
What about Timothy Bradley?It would launch Bradley into a stratosphere. His name has already been linked with Pacquiao’s though he has denied that he was fighting him in the Fall. Amir Khan’s claims that Bradley ducked a fight with him leaves him seriously needing some credibility. Pacquiao may just achieve that for him! Unfortunately it has to be said that the Pac Man would be, at his stage in his career a step too far for Bradley. I would have Bradley down as a notch in the Filipino’s belt.
Andre Berto is somewhere down the list but this could be a good test for Pacquiao. Despite having lost his only fight to Victor Ortiz, the man Mayweather climbs into the ring with in September, last time out, Berto has a decent pedigree. He is a fighter, like Bradley who has plenty to prove and it should be fascinating to see who would come out in front.
Again Pacquiao may not break sweat over this but he needs a battle against a hungry guy. The Shane Mosley fight was the closest thing to a love in outdoors in the US for years…
Jan Savek is another up and coming pretender to the throne who would be putting his undefeated tag up for grabs against Pacquiao. His pedigree though spells more of European contests than World platforms. It may be to Europe that Pacquiao has to look as the opponents in America – North and South are fading from the scene as potential opponents.
Europe also has Amir Khan 25-1 17KOs but Freddie Roach has already said no to that particular contest. It’s a pity but Khan vs. Pacquiao in a year or so would be a fantastic contest. I would hope that Khan keeps Freddie Roach and Pacquiao dumps him if there was to be such a contest!
From that same land of his last European opponent – England – also comes the highly impressive Kell Brook. Brook fights again on June 25th and an assessment of whether he would be ready in 2011 or early 2012 can be made.
Around light welterweight there are few fighters that have not already been at the temple and returned disappointed. Would Pacquiao fancy moving another weight division or is his legacy already assured? Is he not a world champion already at a ridiculous number of weights so it would mean a step up which could mean a leaner and weaker Pacquiao? Funnily enough that hasn’t quite happened so far in his career.
Sergio Gabriel Martinez is a wild card due to the weight difference but stranger things have clearly happened. Pacquiao’s legacy may already be assured but the hunger we all have for more fights, better contests and ANYTHING that stops another press release, internet discussion forum or lengthy article on why Mayweather and Pacquiao should get it on is to be welcomed!
PICTURE: Manny Pacquiao poses with United shirt -- The Busby Way
thebusbyway.com
As they say life imitates art.
So is there any surprise Manny Pacquiao is posing with a Manchester United shirt having knocked Man City fan Ricky Hatton out cold in 2009?
Floyd Mayweather also wore a United shirt in the run up to his 2007 fight with Ricky Hatton, a fight where he also stopped the ‘Hitman’ (starting to see a pattern emerge).
Personally I think he could do a job for us in midfield but he may need to bulk up!
Source: thebusbyway.com
So is there any surprise Manny Pacquiao is posing with a Manchester United shirt having knocked Man City fan Ricky Hatton out cold in 2009?
Floyd Mayweather also wore a United shirt in the run up to his 2007 fight with Ricky Hatton, a fight where he also stopped the ‘Hitman’ (starting to see a pattern emerge).
Personally I think he could do a job for us in midfield but he may need to bulk up!
Source: thebusbyway.com
Pacquiao pushes P125 wage increase -- Manila Bulletin
By RIO ROSE RIBAYA, Manila Bulletin
MANILA, Philippines — Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao Tuesday co-authored a bill seeking for a legislated P125 across-the-board wage hike, assuring his fans who are mostly Filipino workers that he would lobby the measure to get the support of his fellow congressmen.
Pacquiao, who used to work as a construction worker and janitor before rising to become a boxing sensation, signed House Bill No. 375 in support to labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) and party-list Anakpawis pushing for wage increase for workers.
“Before I reached where I am now, I became an ordinary worker. I worked in utility as a janitor. I accepted the job even if the salary is very little so that my family can eat. I also worked as a construction worker. I even sold sampaguita (flowers) on the streets,” Pacquiao said.
“You can count on my support. My life was not easy. I want to let the workers know that I understand what they have been fighting for the right to a living wage, which is provided for in the Constitution,” the Sarangani legislator added.
Pacquiao, who supported the Church in expressing opposition against the reproductive health (RH) bill, explained that the minimum wage rates in the country have been stuck in the standards of the pas after being overcome by recent increases in food, fuel, and transportation prices.
He expressed confidence that employers managing different kind of businesses can withstand and survive a legislated across-the-board wage increase, rejecting that the measure would make them bankrupt.
“That is what they always tell to discourage the workers in getting wage increases. I am hiring many employees, each of them is happy with the compensation and I am not complaining. The P125 across-the-board wage hike is not too much to ask, it’s just fair,” he stressed.
Source: mb.com.ph
Pacquiao, who used to work as a construction worker and janitor before rising to become a boxing sensation, signed House Bill No. 375 in support to labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) and party-list Anakpawis pushing for wage increase for workers.
“Before I reached where I am now, I became an ordinary worker. I worked in utility as a janitor. I accepted the job even if the salary is very little so that my family can eat. I also worked as a construction worker. I even sold sampaguita (flowers) on the streets,” Pacquiao said.
“You can count on my support. My life was not easy. I want to let the workers know that I understand what they have been fighting for the right to a living wage, which is provided for in the Constitution,” the Sarangani legislator added.
Pacquiao, who supported the Church in expressing opposition against the reproductive health (RH) bill, explained that the minimum wage rates in the country have been stuck in the standards of the pas after being overcome by recent increases in food, fuel, and transportation prices.
He expressed confidence that employers managing different kind of businesses can withstand and survive a legislated across-the-board wage increase, rejecting that the measure would make them bankrupt.
“That is what they always tell to discourage the workers in getting wage increases. I am hiring many employees, each of them is happy with the compensation and I am not complaining. The P125 across-the-board wage hike is not too much to ask, it’s just fair,” he stressed.
Source: mb.com.ph
Floyd returns but Pacquiao fight is all that matters -- ESPN
By Steve Bunce, ESPN.co.uk
Boxing doesn't need Floyd v Ortiz, it needed Floyd against Pacquiao 18 months ago. If this Ortiz fight leads to a formal announcement of a Pacquiao match-up in April then fantastic. But if this leads once again to Floyd leaving into the Las Vegas night, assuming the clash takes place there, then we're going to have another 18 months of speculation - he said, she said, I said, we said. I'm sick and tired of will he, won't he; will they, won't they.
Pacquiao's always going to be a possibility for Floyd because we know the type of money that people are talking about - we've gone from $8 or $9 million each to $35 million each. Let's just hope by the middle of November a deal has been signed for next April because if it's not then surely we've got to pull the curtains down on it.
Against Ortiz, I'm expecting an aggressive Floyd to make a statement. We saw a cautious, careful Floyd when he fought veterans Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley but I think we might see him push for a KO. At some point Mayweather, who is 10 years older than Ortiz, is going to slow down and his speed will diminish. At some stage his timing is going to suffer and Ortiz is the type of guy who could cause a slightly slower Floyd some problems. However, there are still some questions marks about Ortiz's mental toughness after he quit in a fight with Marcos Maidana in 2009 when he complained that the punches were hurting him - Monty Pythonesque, I know, and we shouldn't forget it.
If they have a tear-up I know which chin I fancy, and it's not Ortiz's. A shocking win could in theory push Pacquiao into a fight. It seems the two need to embarrass the other in order for terms to be agreed. A big victory here could do the trick.
Twelfth Round
At 34, Ryan Rhodes is hoping it's third time lucky. The Sheffield-born fighter takes his third tilt at a world title by facing off against Saul Alvarez for his WBC light-middleweight crown on Saturday in Mexico - 14 years after his first attempt.
It looks a tall order - Ryan's going to 6000ft of altitude in Guadalajara, he's fighting a guy who is 14 years younger, he's fighting a guy who's unbeaten in 37 fights (26 KO's), he's fighting a guy who is a Mexican idol and as Ryan said himself, 'I must be mad'. If you look at the basic facts he must be. However, I don't think Alvarez's as strong and as unbeatable as some people are trying to paint him.
Oscar de la Hoya, his promoter, is desperate to tell everybody that Alvarez is going to be the greatest Mexican fighter of all time. In his last fight he won the title in a 12-round points decision against Matthew Hatton, who is a welterweight. No disrespect to Hatton but the so-called best Mexican fighter ever would not take 12 rounds to beat him, especially when Hatton's fighting above his usual weight. Ryan's got the power, he's got the strength.
Enlarge That said, I am worried about the altitude factor - it's a sickener. I don't care how Ryan says he feels. You can adjust to normal, everyday things like walking and shopping but in two weeks I'm not sure you can adjust properly. Alvarez goes to Big Bear in California and trains at altitude, where he's been for six weeks. Rhodes has been training in the steel city of Sheffield and Rotherham. There's aptitude in Yorkshire not altitude!
There's no problem with belief but he may be found wanting in this stage of his career. He is much older and he will be fighting in a very foreign land. It's remote, it's at high altitude and the Mexican crowds are savage. Ryan can prepare himself for that in his head but it's another thing on the night when 15,000 people are trying to basically abuse you. That said, he understands the enormity of the task and he can do it. I don't think Alvarez is even half as good as we're being told he is. My gut feeling tells me the altitude and Rhodes' legs, coupled with Alvarez's youth, will mean Rhodes will get stopped on his feet at some point in the last few rounds.
Fireworks can wait for Haye
Watching Wladimir Klitschko's media days last week, I'm amazed that people are surprised he's preparing well. What did people expect, for him to prepare in a nightclub?! Wladimir is a very intelligent, smart guy. This is what he does - he's cold, calculated and scientific. He won't cut a corner, he's a brilliant tactician and technician and he'll be sparring with guys who are the same height, same weight and fight at the same pace as David Haye.
I expect no stunts when David goes in front of the cameras this week, because he's got his man exactly where he wants him. David's been selling this fight since 2008, he's got the bout he wants and all he wants is to get Klitschko out of his hair now.
He's done all the selling, he's got the fight and he'll be itching to get in the ring. It will shut his critics up because most still believe Haye still doesn't want the fight. That's rubbish, he always wanted the fight, he just wanted it on his terms - which he has now got. Fantastic, let's get it on.
Source: espn.co.uk
I suppose it's good that Floyd Mayweather Jr
is back but I still wonder how many years he's going to hold us to ransom. Is he going to come back every 14 months, every 18 months, every two years? Is he ever going to come back and fight Manny Pacquiao? At what point do we say, 'so what Floyd?'.
is back but I still wonder how many years he's going to hold us to ransom. Is he going to come back every 14 months, every 18 months, every two years? Is he ever going to come back and fight Manny Pacquiao? At what point do we say, 'so what Floyd?'. Victor Ortiz, who will put his WBC welterweight title on the line when the pair clash in September, is a perfectly good fighter but he's never going to sell out a big venue in America, he's never going to create a massive buzz. Thankfully with this fight a) he gets a big pay day and b) his profile goes through the roof. It's fantastic for Ortiz, is it good for Floyd? I don't know. Is it good for boxing? I'm not sure.
Boxing doesn't need Floyd v Ortiz, it needed Floyd against Pacquiao 18 months ago. If this Ortiz fight leads to a formal announcement of a Pacquiao match-up in April then fantastic. But if this leads once again to Floyd leaving into the Las Vegas night, assuming the clash takes place there, then we're going to have another 18 months of speculation - he said, she said, I said, we said. I'm sick and tired of will he, won't he; will they, won't they. Pacquiao's always going to be a possibility for Floyd because we know the type of money that people are talking about - we've gone from $8 or $9 million each to $35 million each. Let's just hope by the middle of November a deal has been signed for next April because if it's not then surely we've got to pull the curtains down on it.
Against Ortiz, I'm expecting an aggressive Floyd to make a statement. We saw a cautious, careful Floyd when he fought veterans Juan Manuel Marquez and Shane Mosley but I think we might see him push for a KO. At some point Mayweather, who is 10 years older than Ortiz, is going to slow down and his speed will diminish. At some stage his timing is going to suffer and Ortiz is the type of guy who could cause a slightly slower Floyd some problems. However, there are still some questions marks about Ortiz's mental toughness after he quit in a fight with Marcos Maidana in 2009 when he complained that the punches were hurting him - Monty Pythonesque, I know, and we shouldn't forget it.
If they have a tear-up I know which chin I fancy, and it's not Ortiz's. A shocking win could in theory push Pacquiao into a fight. It seems the two need to embarrass the other in order for terms to be agreed. A big victory here could do the trick.
Twelfth Round
At 34, Ryan Rhodes is hoping it's third time lucky. The Sheffield-born fighter takes his third tilt at a world title by facing off against Saul Alvarez for his WBC light-middleweight crown on Saturday in Mexico - 14 years after his first attempt.
It looks a tall order - Ryan's going to 6000ft of altitude in Guadalajara, he's fighting a guy who is 14 years younger, he's fighting a guy who's unbeaten in 37 fights (26 KO's), he's fighting a guy who is a Mexican idol and as Ryan said himself, 'I must be mad'. If you look at the basic facts he must be. However, I don't think Alvarez's as strong and as unbeatable as some people are trying to paint him.
Oscar de la Hoya, his promoter, is desperate to tell everybody that Alvarez is going to be the greatest Mexican fighter of all time. In his last fight he won the title in a 12-round points decision against Matthew Hatton, who is a welterweight. No disrespect to Hatton but the so-called best Mexican fighter ever would not take 12 rounds to beat him, especially when Hatton's fighting above his usual weight. Ryan's got the power, he's got the strength.
Enlarge That said, I am worried about the altitude factor - it's a sickener. I don't care how Ryan says he feels. You can adjust to normal, everyday things like walking and shopping but in two weeks I'm not sure you can adjust properly. Alvarez goes to Big Bear in California and trains at altitude, where he's been for six weeks. Rhodes has been training in the steel city of Sheffield and Rotherham. There's aptitude in Yorkshire not altitude!
There's no problem with belief but he may be found wanting in this stage of his career. He is much older and he will be fighting in a very foreign land. It's remote, it's at high altitude and the Mexican crowds are savage. Ryan can prepare himself for that in his head but it's another thing on the night when 15,000 people are trying to basically abuse you. That said, he understands the enormity of the task and he can do it. I don't think Alvarez is even half as good as we're being told he is. My gut feeling tells me the altitude and Rhodes' legs, coupled with Alvarez's youth, will mean Rhodes will get stopped on his feet at some point in the last few rounds.
Fireworks can wait for Haye
Watching Wladimir Klitschko's media days last week, I'm amazed that people are surprised he's preparing well. What did people expect, for him to prepare in a nightclub?! Wladimir is a very intelligent, smart guy. This is what he does - he's cold, calculated and scientific. He won't cut a corner, he's a brilliant tactician and technician and he'll be sparring with guys who are the same height, same weight and fight at the same pace as David Haye.
I expect no stunts when David goes in front of the cameras this week, because he's got his man exactly where he wants him. David's been selling this fight since 2008, he's got the bout he wants and all he wants is to get Klitschko out of his hair now.
He's done all the selling, he's got the fight and he'll be itching to get in the ring. It will shut his critics up because most still believe Haye still doesn't want the fight. That's rubbish, he always wanted the fight, he just wanted it on his terms - which he has now got. Fantastic, let's get it on.
Source: espn.co.uk
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