Pacquiao vs Mayweather Videos

WATCH MAYWEATHER VS MOSLEY LIVE STREAM NOW!

2010-05-02T11:24:00.001+08:00

Watch the Mayweather versus Mosley live stream at http://bit.ly/bU6znn

Pacquiao vs Clottey Finalized: Cowboys Stadium, Full Details

2010-01-11T19:34:00.003+08:00

By Rick Reeno - BoxingScene.com spoke with a very excited Bob Arum [CEO for Top Rank] on Sunday afternoon. Arum just closed a deal with Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones to stage Manny Pacquiao's defense of the WBO welterweight title against Joshua Clottey at Cowboys Stadium in Dallas, Texas on March 13. Arum and Top Rank president Todd duBoef flew to Texas on Saturday to meet with Jones. They sat and watched the Cowboys' big win over the Eagles. They plan to scale the venue for a crowd of 50,000 fans.

"We have deal for March 13. Rick, I have to tell you something - this place blew me away. It was the greatest place that I've ever been to. This boxing event will be so memorable for the fans and this not a normal stadium. It's hard to picture it unless you come here and see it for yourself with all of the electronics and the big screens," Arum said to BoxingScene.

There is still no word on HBO's involvement with the pay-per-view. Arum would like to get HBO on board, but he plans to move forward either way.

"We've been with them for a long time and if they want to participate that's fine, but if they don't we have major media companies that are ready to jump on board especially with the Cowboys and everything else," Arum said.

A two day press tour is already in play. Pacquiao-Clottey will have the kick-off press conference on January 18 in Dallas and the next stop on the tour will be in New York on the 19th. He plans to pack the undercard with Hispanic talent. Former welterweight champion Antonio Margarito is one of the fighters they are planning to put on the show. A three fight undercard is being put together for the pay-per-view.

"We're looking to put a lot of Hispanic fighters on the card. Margarito is one of them. I've already spoken with Dickie Cole [Texas Athletic Commission] on when he can apply [for a license]. Roberto Marroquin will definitely be on the show. They love him out here. And Bruce [Top Rank's head matchmaker] will put together some more matches," Arum said.

"There will be three fights underneath Pacquiao vs. Clottey. A press conference is scheduled for the 18th in Dallas and a New York press conference on the 19th. And as part of the deal we made with Jerry, is for them [Cowboys organization] to be involved."

For more Pacquiao vs Clottey updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-clottey-videos.blogspot.com/.

Source: boxingscene.com

Pacquiao to pursue lawsuit vs Mayweather

2010-01-08T13:33:00.004+08:00

Fight fans are disappointed that the super fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. has been called off.

Pacquiao himself is disappointed, too.

"I am very disappointed that we could not make this fight for the fans,” the 7-time world champion said in statement.

The World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight king is also angry at the Mayweather camp and its representative Golden Boy Promotions for spreading accusations against him.

“I am angered because of the false accusations from Golden Boy and the Mayweather camp that I used some type of drugs, and that is why I have instructed our American lawyers to proceed with the lawsuit to clear my name," said Pacquiao.

The Pacquiao-Mayweather fight is seen by many as a single bout that could bring back the popularity of boxing as a sport.

Both fighters might have received up to $40 million each in fight revenues had the fight pushed through.

Talks collapse

The fight was called off after the mediation process collapsed due to the Mayweather camp’s refusal to accept Pacquiao’s concession.

During the mediation, Pacquiao’s camp agreed to blood tests 24 days before the fight, which addressed Mayweather's demand that Pacquiao submit himself to a blood test 30 days before the fight.

However, retired federal judge Daniel Weinstein rang Top Rank chief Bob Arum after the meeting to inform that the mega-buck fight won’t push through.

"The fight's off, Mayweather never wanted it. Manny wanted the fight. He was agreeable to terms," Arum told LATimes.com.

Pacquiao’s camp said it saw this development happening.

"When the fight was offered, Manny accepted it with no hesitation," Pacquiao adviser Michael Koncz told ESPN.com. "We're not surprised. We saw this coming once they started this drug bull----. It was a way for them to get out of the fight. I don't think Mayweather expected Manny to accept the challenge so quickly."

More to lose

Arum said the biggest loser in the talk’s collapse was Golden Boy Promotions.

"The guys who should be most disappointed in the fight being off are Schaefer and De La Hoya because they went along with this guy [Mayweather] and ended up with gatz and a big lawsuit," Arum said.

Arum said Golden Boy Promotions, which is headed by boxing great and old Pacquiao foe Oscar de la Hoya, also risks losing its share in the Filipino’s contract.

"There's an arbitration which calls for them to lose any percentage of Manny's promotional contract, something we asked for and had postponed, but now it will go forward," Arum said in ESPN.com.

"We did that two weeks ago before Manny filed his lawsuit. It's binding arbitration. Our request was for Golden Boy to forfeit its interest in Pacquiao's contract based on the fact that they had demeaned Pacquiao with their remarks [alleging he used PEDs] and that it violated the [2007] agreement between Pacquiao, Top Rank and Golden Boy," Arum said.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: abs-cbnnews.com

Remember when 'Money' was a Manny fan?

2010-01-08T11:21:00.002+08:00

By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo - Believe it or not, once upon a time, Floyd Mayweather Jr. spoke highly of Manny Pacquiao. That time of course was when Pacquiao was destroying legends in the lower weight classes but wasn't really considered as a logical threat to Mayweather's throne.

In an interview with FightFan.com a couple of years ago, Floyd hardly flinched when saying Pacquiao was the best pound for pound fighter in the business next to him.

In a footage below of Pacquiao's second match with Erik Morales, Mayweather is seen on camera next to his adviser Leonard Ellerbe get up from his seat, pumping his fists and even acknowledging Pacquiao fans as the Pac Man finally slew the dragon that was Erik Morales.

My, my how things can change. Of course nowadays, Mayweather is singing a different tune. A few years later and a couple of dominating performances against two of his former opponents, somehow Mayweather has turned from a Pacquiao fan to a critic. I wonder what made him switch. Before he fought Juan Manuel Marquez in September, Mayweather even hinted that Maquez was better than Pacquiao. Of course we all know that it's Floyd's ego talking, but it's just funny what insecurity does to some people.

On the other hand, Pacquiao never really dissed nor trash talked anybody on his way to the top. Even after several tirades against him by Mayweather and his father, Pacquaio kept silent and simply looked forward to their meeting in the ring. In his last statement against Mayweather however, Pacquiao finally took the gloves off and challenged Mayweather to stop yapping and do his talking in the boxing ring where Pacquiao can hit him back with his fists.

Will Mayweather give Pacquiao that opportunity? Or is this mega-fight truly going to go down the drain because of baseless steroids claims? If you have followed my column, you probably know what my take is on all this. I never was convinced Floyd truly intended to fight Pacquiao in March. I still believe though that this fight will happen later on this year.

Check out the video below showing better times between Pacquiao and Mayweather.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Pacquiao, Mayweather agree to mediator

2010-01-06T21:20:00.003+08:00

With time running out to save a potential March 13 megafight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., the camps are heading to mediation on Tuesday in an effort to work out their differences.

Mediator Daniel Weinstein will preside over the meeting in Santa Monica, Calif. Weinstein, a retired federal judge, also mediated the acrimonious dispute that kept Top Rank, Pacquiao's promoter, and Golden Boy, which represents Mayweather, from doing fights together for almost two years.

"We're going into mediation," Top Rank chairman Bob Arum, Pacquiao's promoter, told ESPN.com. "This guy was successful resolving our nutty problem before and hopefully he can be successful this time. He's a guy who is a big fight fan and loves the sport, and I found him last time to be a delight to deal with. Everybody did."

In a statement Monday to ESPN.com, Weinstein said the sides accepted the mediation without any conditions.

"After discussions with representatives of all parties I am satisfied that the parties are approaching the mediation in good faith," he said. "Neither side is insisting on pre-conditions to its participation in the mediation, and both sides will present their positions in an effort to resolve the dispute."

At the time of the previous mediation, the companies had several ongoing lawsuits, including the one at the center of the bad blood: ownership of the promotional rights to Pacquiao, who had signed contracts with both companies before eventually pledging his loyalty to Top Rank.

When the disputes were settled in June 2007, Arum and Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer both credited Weinstein's steady hand for getting them to reach an accord. Under the global settlement, Top Rank retained Pacquiao's promotional rights with Golden Boy receiving a percentage of Top Rank's profit from his future bouts.

The hope is that Weinstein can once again help the sides see their way through what has become an increasingly nasty battle in an effort to finalize the bout between welterweight titlist Pacquiao and Mayweather, the two best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, in a fight many believe will break the pay-per-view record of 2.44 million buys. Mayweather's 2007 fight with Golden Boy president Oscar De La Hoya set the record.

Weinstein said both sides have agreed not to comment until after they meet with him.

AOL Fanhouse first reported the mediation plans Sunday night.

Top Rank and Golden Boy have agreed on all points on the Pacquiao-Mayweather fight except for one: The protocol for drug testing.

Even though the Nevada State Athletic Commission, which would oversee the bout at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, doesn't require blood testing, Mayweather has insisted on random blood testing. Both sides have already agreed to unlimited random urine testing.

Pacquiao has refused training camp-long random blood testing, agreeing only to three tests, one during the week of the kickoff news conference, which would take place in the next week or so if they finalize the fight, one random test to be conducted no later than 30 days before the fight and a final test in his dressing room after the fight.

Mayweather would be subject to the same testing procedures.

One issue sure to be discussed in front of the mediator is the impact of the defamation lawsuit Pacquiao filed last week in Nevada U.S. District Court against Mayweather Jr., Schaefer, De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Sr., Roger Mayweather and Mayweather Promotions.

In the suit, Pacquiao alleges they made false and defamatory statements and sullied his reputation by accusing him of taking performance-enhancing drugs. Pacquiao denies he has ever used PEDs and has never failed a drug test.

If mediation fails, and the fight does not get made, Arum said he will match Pacquiao with junior middleweight titlist Yuri Foreman, whom he also promotes, on March 20 at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas so Pacquiao could attempt to win a title in a record eighth weight division.

Mayweather could still fight on March 13 at the MGM and potentially face former junior welterweight titlist Paulie Malignaggi.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: sports.espn.go.com

Pacquiao's KO of Hatton best of 2009

2010-01-06T15:26:00.002+08:00

By Ricardo Lois - A well placed left-hook to the chin by Manny Pacquiao sent Ricky Hatton to the canvas, and kept him there for several minutes - flattened out and looking at the ring lights above.

There was no knock-out more impressive or that will be remembered any more clearly by those who saw it, than the one Pacquiao scored against Hatton on May 2, 2009.

If I can confess here, in this public forum, I watched the Hatton demise at least two dozens times on my Digital Video Recorder immediately following the fight. The crisp left hook was a thing of beauty.

With that one punch, and the ensuing knock-out, Manny Pacquiao earned knock-out of the year for 2009.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Kizer Explains Commission’s Stance On Pacquiao vs Mayweather Jr

2010-01-06T14:49:00.001+08:00

Unless you has been living under a rock these past few days, pretty much all hard core boxing fans from around the world are only too aware that the big money clash between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr is in jeopardy because neither camp can agree on how both fighters will be drug tested.

Whilst Mayweather and promoter Golden Boy are insisting on random Olympic style drug testing Pacquiao and his promoter Top Rank are adamant blood tests-when the fight is officially announced, 30 days prior and immediately after the fight-is more than sufficient.

Press releases have bounced back and forth from both boxers PR machine all week in a bid to justify their respective stances on the situation.

The biggest fight of the new decade was/is due to take place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada on March 13, which of course means the fight will fall under the jurisdiction of the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

James ‘Smitty’ Smith’s excellent In This Corner TV sat down with Executive Director Keith Kizer of the NSAC’s to discuss the impasse in negotiations that could jeopardize possibly the highest grossing super fight in history.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: secondsout.com

Pacquiao is int'l sports Web sites' top boxer

2010-01-06T11:40:00.002+08:00

By Jonathan Perez - Awards have started pouring in for Manny Pacquiao after his two knockout triumphs against Ricky Hatton (second round) and Miguel Cotto (12th round).

Unmindful of the accusations of steroids use, several US-based sports Web sites named the Filipino boxing icon as the 2009 Boxer of the Year in their year-end boxing awards.

Sports Web sites SportsIllustrated.com, AssociatedContent.com, Boxingtalk.com, Boxingscene.com, FightHype.com – in an online poll – and Boxingtalk.com named Pacquiao as their boxer or fighter of the year for his historic twin wins in 2009.

ESPN.com, the official Web site of an American cable television network that is dedicated to broadcasting and producing sports-related programming, then named Pacquiao’s quick second-round demolition of Britain’s Hatton as the knockout of the year.

ESPN.com’s Dan Raphael said Pacquiao remained humble despite of his achievements and even praised the Pinoy ring icon for making his home country proud.

Boxingscene.com, Boxingtalk.com and Fightype.com also made Pacquiao’s second-round win over Hatton as the KO of the Year.

Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, joined his ward as the top awardee for trainer of the year honors from SI.com and Fightype.com after helping the General Santos City native win a historic seventh world title crown in a different weight division.

SI.com’s Chris Mannix wrote that Pacquiao was an easy choice for the 2009 honor after consecutive KO victories against “two physically stronger opponents" in Hatton in May and Cotto last November.

Mannix added that if the time machine was real he would transport Pacquiao in different periods to see how the reigning pound-for-pound king would fare against the top fighters of the ‘70s, 80s and mid ‘90s.

Jake Emen wrote that although Pacquiao only fought twice last year those two victories were enough to earn him AC.com’s Fighter of the Year.

“He was also widely viewed as the winner in 2008, when he fought three times in three weight classes, won two title belts, and beat the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez and Oscar De La Hoya. Of course he's also the reigning pound for pound champion. Not only that, but he may just be the Fighter of the Decade from 2000-2009," said Emen.

And for the third straight year, Pacquiao was Boxingscene.com’s top fighter.

Winning Cotto’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight crown earned for him his milestone world title in seven different weight divisions to enter his name in the record books as one of the greatest boxers ever.

He claimed his sixth title, Hatton’s International Boxing Organization (IBO) junior welterweight crown.

Boxingscene.com said Pacquiao’s wins were timely as it helped revive boxing’s status as a major sporting event.

The Pacquiao-Cotto pay-per-view buys tallied 1.25 million or worth more than $80M while ticket sales reached $8,847,550.

Pacquiao’s compatriot, Brian Viloria, also made it to Boxingscene.com’s list as the comeback of the year after the “Hawaiian Punch’s" 12th round KO win over Mexican Ulises Solis while the “Pacman’s" ongoing word ward and legal battle against the Mayweathers – Floyd Jr., Floyd Sr. and Roger – as the event of the year.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: gmanews.tv

Does anyone really want to see Pacquiao vs. Marquez 3?

2010-01-06T10:46:00.003+08:00

By Scott Heritage - The latest from camp Pacquiao seems to suggest that a third fight against Juan Manuel Marquez might be next for Pacquiao. Although nothing official has been confirmed yet, Freddie Roach apparently wants that fight rather than a showdown with Yuri Foreman, the super welterweight champion and favorite to face Manny in March.

Freddie Roach apparently thinks this might be a weight class to far for Manny, who at around 5,6 would be at a big size disadvantage against the rangy Foreman. There were talks of Marquez facing Ricky Hatton in the new year, although he has been chomping at the bit for another fight with Manny for years. Both fights can probably still happen on schedule though, because Hatton will probably need until mid way through next year to get back into decent shape.

The first two fights between Pacquiao and Marquez were both excellent, the first being a draw and the second a controversial decision for Pacquiao. Ever since then Marquez has been looking for another fight against Pacquiao, who he still feels he can beat. Whether he has much left for the wight class hopping Pacquiao of 2010 will remain to be seen, but he would probably come in as a big underdog this time around.

One of the biggest questions and reservations I have about a third fight is what weight it would be fought at. Presumably it would either be light welterweight or welterweight, because Manny would struggle to get much lighter with all the muscle he has put on recently.

The higher the weight goes the easier the fight becomes for Manny, who unlike Marquez is still at his best at either 140lbs or 145lbs. Marquez struggled against Floyd Mayweather at welterweight and never really got much momentum during the fight.

If the fight takes place at anything higher than 130lbs, then expect Pacquiao to dominate from bell to bell, perhaps even getting a stoppage this time around. At 36 Marquez still looks in pretty good shape, but add a big weight gain to his advancing age and he becomes a much diminished fighter.

There is appeal for this fight from many fans despite all this, and it would still be a big seller. If Mayweather can get a million buys for giving an undersized Marques a shellacking, then Pacquiao can surely do the same given the closeness of their first two fights.

The other advantage is that currently Floyd Mayweather can say that he beat Marquez a lot easier than Pacquiao did. Should Manny smash Marquez this time around, which most agree he would, then of course Mayweather has nothing left to crow about.

Of all the common opponents they have faced, only Marquez was beaten more easily by Floyd than Manny (huge weight advantage or not). If Manny reverses this, than Floyd cannot claim to have either beaten better opponents or beaten them more easily either.

Besides that though, the fight doesn't hold much appeal for me. At anything above 135lbs Manny is still a monster who can walk through opponents and blitzkrieg the best fighters in each division. Marquez looks slow and old that far above his natural weight, and certainly doesn't look like a world beater.

If I were on Manny's team I would push for either Malignaggi or Foreman first and if Marquez can get past a decent light welterweight or welterweight like Hatton, then make a trilogy later in the year. If the Mayweather fight comes back around later on in the year though, and the terms can be finalized this time, Manny should drop the idea of Marquez altogether.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Manny Pacquiao undergoes urine test

2010-01-06T10:44:00.000+08:00

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Blood Flows Two Days Before Pacquiao Fought Morales in 2005

2010-01-06T10:37:00.003+08:00

By Leo Reyes - A YouTube video of an interview by talk show host Dong Puno some time in 2005 shows Manny Pacquiao telling the ABS-CBN News anchor that blood samples were taken from him two days before his fight with Erik Morales in 2005.

The You Tube video was sent in by a Digital Journal reader Friday which confirms Pacquiao's claim that he feels weak when blood is drawn from his body days before a fight.

The Camp of Floyd Mayweather, Jr. insists that blood be taken at random on Pacquiao and Mayweather days before the highly anticipated Pacquiao-Mayweather fight penciled for March 13. Random sampling, as demanded by the Mayweather camp could mean three days, two days, a day or even an hour before the fight.

Boxing fans do not understand why the Mayweather camp would require such stringent testing which the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) does not require.

It seems the Mayweather camp knew the inside story on the Pacquiao-Morales first in a series of three matches that took place in 2005 where Pacquiao lost by unanimous decision. In the series Pacquiao won the second and third matches. Pacquiao claimed in the YouTube video that he felt very weak a day before the fight and intimated in recent news releases that his loss to Morales may have something to do with the timing of blood sample drawn from his body two days before the fight.

In the ongoing negotiations between the Pacquiao and Mayweather camps where everything, from the fight purse, venue and other minor details have been agreed on, the blood sampling demand remains contentious. Mayweather's negotiators continue to insist on random blood sampling days before the fight.

Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum objected to the random blood testing demand of the Mayweather Camp but gave in later by proposing a three-stage blood sample collection which will start second week of January when both fighters will meet in California and New York for their promotional tour, the second sampling 30 days before March 13 and the last immediately after the fight.

Still the Mayweather negotiators would not give up with their demand for a random blood sampling, prompting Bob Arum to call off the fight and started negotiating with
Paulie Malignaggi and Yuri Foreman to face Pacquiao instead of Mayweather on March 13.

Early on, the Mayweather camp accused Pacquiao of taking performance enhancing drugs for an added strength during his fight with Ricky Hatton of England when the British boxer lost to Pacquiao by KO inside second round in Las Vegas. Floyd Mayweather, Sr. acted as Hatton's coach and trainer during the Pacquiao-Hatton match last May. They also reportedly said that the Philippines is haven for performance enhancing drugs which infuriated Pacquaio as he denied the baseless accusations.

In the light of these developments, Pacquiao decided to file a lawsuit against the Mayweather camp for defamation. The case was filed in Nevada early this week by Pacquiao's lawyer Daniel Petrocelli.

In the meantime, Bob Arum intimated that if the Mayweather camp decides to change its position on the stalled talks, he may try to convince Pacquiao to withdraw the case. Pacquiao fans however opposed Arum's plan and advised Pacquiao to proceed with the case to clear his name.

The Mayweather camp says they are still hopeful a deal can be made within this week despite the lawsuit filed by Pacquiao against them.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: digitaljournal.com

Fight analysis: The ONLY strategy for defeating Floyd Mayweather (Part 2)

2009-12-15T16:48:00.002+08:00

By Marv Dumon - Intro: There is one singular strategy that has never been employed against Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Using it would leverage the element of surprise - which is a critical variable in war.

It is a tactic that has been successfully used before, and a technique that plays to Floyd's weaknesses. We believe that this plan will also be employed by Freddie Roach to play to Mayweather's massive ego. We find historical examples of this warplan, including a technique that Hannibal used against several ancient Roman generals which wreaked havoc around the Italian Peninsula over 2,000 years ago.

Secondly, we continue an analysis of four boxers who (temporarily) outfought Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Undoubtedly, "Money" will be the most prolific defensive and counter-punching opponent both Manny Pacquiao and Freddie Roach will ever face in their hall of fame careers. That Mayweather is an early slight betting favorite in this fight is the correct initial position from the gambling marketplace.

Do not be distracted by all the name-calling and trash-talking. That is mere noise. The movers and shakers of the world dig beneath the surface. A saying in investment banking: "(Believe) half of what you see, none of what you hear."

Fact: Floyd is a terrifc machine. His talents are a significant variable in determining the outcome of this showdown. However, the blueprint for his defeat is laid out in three fights: the first Jose Luis Castillo fight, the early rounds of Zab Judah (covered in the first part of this article), and the second and third rounds of the Oscar de la Hoya fight in 2007. All three fights involved Floyd Mayweather.

We juxtapose these with five of Manny Pacquiao's bouts with two great (and smaller) counter-punchers - Erik Morales and Juan Manuel Marquez - to see if we can gather any insights. (The second fight with Marco Antonio Barrera fight also saw a fighter that tried to counter Manny for all 12 rounds.)

No forward-looking analysis is 100% accurate. There is no Merlin with a magic crystal ball. However, we explore any habits from trend-analysis as well as prospective gameplans from each fighter in order to maximize each's probability for success. Additionally, Freddie Roach has implied a strategy against Mayweather, Jr.; that his team would "set up traps." Roach is already working hard on setting up smokescreens and mirrors for this fight, and in laying down his camp's deceptions. We explore what "traps" may mean.

In the words of Winston Churchill:

"In wartime, truth is so precious that she should always be attended by a bodyguard of lies."

# 3

2007: Oscar de la Hoya

Rounds 2 and 3

Rounds 4 and 5

The Oscar de la Hoya fight reveals a few insights. The bigger man (Oscar) was able to back up and over-power Floyd in spurts, often pinning him against the ropes. Oscar often stepped on Floyd's foot to keep him in place. That allowed de la Hoya to throw in bunches, while Floyd concentrated on accuracy and points.

Floyd does not like being pressured, and when he gave openings, he showed vulnerabilities to being hit, especially when his feet and shoulders squared up to face de la Hoya. Manny Pacquiao's explosiveness will have enough power to force occasional and tactical retreats by Floyd. Unfortunately for Oscar, he did not throw body punches when Floyd did square up to face him, to leave openings to the body. Roach and Pacquiao will capitalize on what Oscar did not.

As mentioned in part one, we believe that Manny Pacquiao has the first four rounds - the first 12 minutes - to "fully make his impression," and to effect Roach's gameplan (or several gameplans).

Lesson 3.1: Floyd takes about two to three rounds in order to figure out his enemy, and to adjust to his strategy. He can back up and retreat early on - but he is actually studying and observing his opponent, before figuring out how to win on points. (See rounds 4 and 5 of the de la Hoya fight where Floyd beautifully crafts his attack and adjusts to Oscar's style.)

Also, when Oscar tried to bully Floyd in the middle and late rounds, Floyd simply grappled, clenched, and tied up Oscar. We believe Mayweather can do the same to Manny. Floyd can hold him up when Manny tries to get inside. Roach and Pacquiao will work hard at the gym to counter this, perhaps by throwing combinations right before Floyd tries to clench. A weakness of Pacquiao, however, is that he is not particularly good at fighting inside.

Lesson 3.2: If Floyd is ahead on the judges' scorecards for most of the first four rounds, then this fight will likely be over. Mayweather, Jr will play keep away, and with his highly accurate pot shots (as we see below), he will cruise on to a 12-round decision.

Lesson 3.3: The early rounds are testing ground for Mayweather to study his opponent's movements, measure his physique and power, and analyze his style and tactics - so that he can figure out how to win on points. (As stated, it takes him three-plus rounds to figure out an opposing force.) While he is brilliant at this, it also reveals a major flaw and systematic weakness on his part. Against a super fighter like Pacquiao, this is Floyd's best chance to win. When Mayweather was forced into a firefight against then-lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo, Floyd's brittle hands and suspect chin saw him out-gunned several times during that fight. The same happened early on with the Judah fight.

These three lessons will factor into how Freddie Roach formulates his customized strategy against Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Might we be so bold as to suggest that we know what that gameplan will be.

In the words of Prussian General Carl von Clausewitz:

"If the enemy is to be coerced, you must put him in a situation that is even more unpleasant than the sacrifice you call on him to make. The hardships of the situation must not be merely transient - at least not in appearance. Otherwise, the enemy would not give in, but would wait for things to improve."

According to Pacquiao sparmate Shawn Porter: "If the referee lets them fight inside a lot, Mayweather could be in trouble. If he allows Mayweather to tie Manny up without warning and deductions he (Floyd) will win a very easy fight. But if he lets them fight it out? It could be a war and go either way."

In the chart below, we explore six fights between a puncher and counter-puncher, all involving either Manny Pacquiao or Floyd Mayweather, Jr. There is no time limit to this exercise. Thus, you are invited to review the statistics below for a few minutes. Take your time.

The numbers with the plus (+) sign reveal how many more punches were thrown or landed, or reveal how much more accurate a fighter was against his opponent. The plus (+) sign is the differential, or the margin.

Styles make fights, sure. And you cannot compare apples to oranges. Still, working with limited data we are forced to extrapolate a few key observations from the above chart:

Chart Lesson 1: Against de la Hoya, Floyd threw much fewer punches (106 less) than Oscar. Why? Floyd does not like opening himself up to being countered. Floyd spent the first three rounds studying Oscar. He became much more effective and accurate from the fourth round on after learning de la Hoya's style and timing. Floyd learned to read and telegraph Oscar's punches. His adjustments allowed him to land 7+ more punches per round. Over the course of 12 rounds, that led to 85 more landed punches for Floyd. He also was an incredible 22% more accurate. More landed punches won him the decision victory.

Implication: Freddie Roach stated that Manny and himself will set up "traps" for Floyd. Many boxing observers will take that to mean that Pacquiao will work on getting Floyd to attack, so that Mayweather will be open to counters. That would be similar to what they did to Miguel Cotto. As soon as Cotto grew confident in his left jab, Manny lunged forward with his blinding combinations.

Wrong! Do not be mistaken, Roach's "trap" is not a physical trap. It is a mental trap. Think back to Churchill's quote. Roach wants Camp Mayweather to think that Manny will start the fight like he did with Cotto - slow and cerebral, that way the bigger man thinks the "smaller man" is vulnerable. And that Floyd can pick Manny apart with accuracy in the early rounds, and score points with the judges. Pure deception from Roach.

What is the real trap? What is the real strategy? What did Germany do in World War II that worked while being surrounded by enemies on all fronts?

Once Floyd believes these deceptions, the Roach-Pacman tandem will execute their true strategy. An unforeseen, unpredictable Blitzkrieg from the opening bell. Full assault. No holds barred. Roach and Pacquiao will go for an early KO, if they can get it. From now on, we refer to this strategy as the "Blitzkrieg Strategy."

If an early KO does not materialize, the plan still serves two benefits: it will soften up Floyd for a later-round breakdown. He does not take punches well. Secondly, it may put Pacquiao ahead on the scorecards, which would force Mayweather to fight aggressively later on to try and win back points. And we saw in the Judah and Castillo fight that Floyd is not an excellent fighter when forced to go on the offensive. His bread and butter is his shoulder roll defense, which allows him to score points with a very short left hook, or a lightning quick straight from his right. If someone goes inside, Floyd clenches and ties him up.

"Infantry must move forward to close with the enemy. It must shoot in order to move... To halt under fire is folly. To halt under fire and not fire back is suicide." - General George S. Patton

Chart Lesson 2: Manny threw about 100 punches more per fight against Juan Manuel Marquez. These were two hotly contested bouts. Despite being much more active, Marquez always landed more punches than Pacquiao. JMM landed 10 more in the second fight, and 15 more in the first fight. Manny threw more, JMM landed more. JMM was more accurate.

Implication: The theory that Pacquiao will beat Floyd on high work rate is a misleading and incomplete story. As both JMM fights show (and Floyd is much better than JMM), Manny Pacquiao executing a high work rate does not work over the course of 12 rounds. In Pacquiao's last loss in 2005, to the counter-punching Erik Morales, Manny threw 180 more punches over 12 rounds, but El Terrible landed nearly 50 more blows. Morales was more accurate. Again, for Pacquiao, high work rate over 12 rounds does not work against counter-punchers. Roach knows this. He was there working the corner.

This supports the Blitzkrieg Strategy. Pacquiao will have a high work rate against Floyd - but in the early rounds - as he goes for an early stoppage and/or for early points.

A second theorem. You cannot succeed as a formulaic fighter against Floyd. You need multiple strategies. After the early Blitz, and if Floyd is still standing (most likely he will be), Pacquiao and Roach can execute a more "normal gameplan."

If he trails on the judges' cards, Floyd will be forced to fight more aggressively (to try and win by decision).

But Marco Antonio Barrera did say that Manny will need to lunge to his left in order to land a left hook to Floyd's face or body - he believes that is how you beat his tight shoulder roll defense. We would only add that Pacquiao could also throw uppercuts when he does move to his left. Additionally, he can throw right hooks to Floyd's left side of the body , as well as, counter Floyd when the latter comes in. When Floyd attacked Judah early on (Floyd was being egoistic), the latter timed him with a quick right that sent Floyd's gloves grazing on the canvas (technically a knockdown).

Chart Lesson 3: The third Morales fight shows that the Blitz can shock an opponent. In under three rounds, Manny threw nearly as much as Morales (175 punches). However, Pacquiao landed 94 punches to only 44 for Morales. An incredible 54% vs 26% connect rate in favor of Manny.

Implication: The third Morales fight shows that Manny Pacquiao can throw in blinding bunches but still achieve high accuracy. If the Blitz strategy works, that means he will blast all kinds of powerful barrages at Floyd in the first three to four rounds (it takes Floyd three rounds to adjust to a gameplan), and potentially still be accurate. The high work rate combined with high accuracy will translate to points racked up on the judges' scorecards.

It is important to note that Ricky Hatton applied the full court press on Floyd early in their fight, which bothered Mayweather. A big left from Hatton sent Floyd tumbling back in the early rounds, which forced Mayweather to grab the ropes to maintain his balance. However, we can suggest that no one has ever tried a "shock and awe" Blitz attack on Floyd, which means there is still a critical element of surprise in this plan of attack.

In the words of General George S. Patton:

"It is only by doing things others have not that one can advance."

If the Roach-Pacquiao team tries something cute or fancy early on, it may be something that Floyd has already seen and/or something that Floyd can easily adjust to with his superior boxing skills. Blitzkrieg - the Manny Pacquiao version - is something Floyd has not yet experienced, and thus have not learned to deal with. And if Roach succeeds in his mind games, Floyd (and his camp) will not be expecting it either.

# 4

2004: DeMarcus Corley

Rounds 3 and 4

Round 5

From rounds three to five, Floyd Mayweather, Jr stood toe-to-toe and went offensive against DeMarcus Corley in a 140 lb bout in 2004. Not using his shoulder roll defense as much in these early rounds, Floyd's stance allowed him to be countered by the spirited Corley. The latter's power also appeared to affect Floyd in certain spurts, and Corley landed hooks by way of counter punches. Floyd became effective when he in turn countered Corley.

This fight is important for a reason. In the speculations and pre-fight analyses that will circulate in the weeks leading up to the Pacquiao vs Mayweather showdown, many will note that Roach will somehow try to open up Floyd early in the fight by getting him to throw his jabs and right straights.

Freddie Roach's Gameplan:

If you buy into (and believe) the above arguments, then we believe the optimal strategic warplan for defeating Floyd Mayweather, Jr (40-0) is in the following:

1. "Shock and awe" Blitzkrieg attack in the first four rounds. Go for early stoppage, and at the very least, earn points from judges.

2. The critical element for #1 is Manny's ability to be accurate despite throwing high volumes of punches. High work rate (in the early rounds) by Pacquiao must be accompanied by accuracy (i.e., third Morales fight). If Pacquiao is not accurate, Floyd will make him pay dearly with counters that will be accurate and highly effective - particularly in the form of a straight right that will travel so fast Manny will not see them coming.

3. Manny Pacquiao has four rounds to swarm Floyd. He must force his enemy to be incapable of thinking. The clever smarts of Mayweather must be rendered incapacitated. That is the art of warfare. In past fights, Roach and Pacquiao have taken away the physical arsenal of opponents - i.e., they took away Oscar's left hook. For this fight, Roach and Manny will focus on taking away their enemy's mental prowess.

4. To overwhelm Floyd, Roach and Manny will work daily on honing the ability to cut off the ring, so that Pacquiao can fully leverage his explosiveness. The big weapons will be the lunging left hook, a right hook to the body, and the occasional "Mt. Pinatubo" uppercut. Blows to the body also cannot be underestimated in significance. Floyd hates being hit in the face - he is "Pretty Boy" - and that may leave openings to the body.

Historical Perspective:

Nazi Germany laid the modern template for Blitzkrieg during World War II. Time was the critical factor in their war, as they were completely surrounded by opposing or neutral forces by land and by water. Thus, they had to win quickly. Similarly, Roach will prefer to not let the fight drag out. That would increase the chance of Floyd being able to dictate the tempo and pace.

In the ancient world, Hannibal (one of the ancient world's greatest military commanders) had an interest in directly engaging with the Roman legions (so long as landscape and weather conditions were favorable). Several Roman generals had particularly massive egos. Hannibal tailored his strategy to play these egos like strings on a guitar. To show nearby towns that Rome was no threat to the invading Gauls, Hannibal marched his armies in clear view of fortified cities, taunting the generals - to get them to come out and fight.

One general set up camp near a river. Hannibal attacked them in early dawn, knowing the commanding general was hot-tempered. The general ordered his troops to chase Hannibal's forces across the river. The Roman legions, early in the morning, crossed the ice cold river. The Romans got surrounded and was slaughtered on the other side. In one direct engagement, the Gauls (Hannibal's side) slaughtered over 60,000 Romans in six hours.

The lesson? Military commanders throughout history have shown that there is a way to make a smart enemy (temporarily) mentally incapable. You do that by removing information or by supplying false data (deception). You keep him guessing. Your forces become unpredictable, with no trace of trend or habit. Make sure he cannot think properly. In boxing's setting, that is accomplished with the Blitz. Commanders have also played to their opponent's ego; getting them to make mistakes based on emotion and/or sense of self-importance. In thousands of years of warfare, there have been thousands of opposing commanders with a personality trait similar to Floyd Mayweather, Jr.

Conclusion: When the scrolls are written, there will be a story to this Blitz strategy. And it is symbolic. If Pacquiao can pull it off, he will have come full circle in his life and in his boxing career. A street brawler from the alleys of General Santos. To an evolved two-fisted boxer. And back to brawler.

Final Lesson: When you have a clever, smart fighter, do not fight him in games requiring cleverness or smarts. Fight him in areas that require strength and brute force. In school, there is a way to defeat the smartest guy in class. You beat him into submission in basketball or football. You give him a bloody nose. You taunt him. Make him feel like coming from a privileged background somehow takes away from his manhood. You break his will and morale. If, however, you allow a smart fighter and / or student to oppose you in ways of the books, poetry, the arts, you are dead. You have played to his strengths, and in the art of warfare that is suicide.

Floyd Mayweather, Jr is undefeated at 40-0 in part because he has out-thought and out-adjusted his opponents. By way of the same analogy, why would Roach want to give him a chance to think? Why would "Master" Freddie give Mayweather the opportunity to study his opponent, and to adjust to a formulaic style?

There is a final and dark reason from Freddie Roach and Manny Pacquiao to implement an early Blitzkrieg: respect. Floyd is dismissive of Manny and considers him "easy work." The Mayweathers have been insulting "joke coach" Roach. We believe that Freddie wants to sadistically exact revenge, and that Manny wants to force Floyd to respect him, not in a good way, but by way of savagery. Muhammad Ali incessantly taunted Joe Frazier, calling him an "ugly gorilla." Only when Frazier brought him to the brink of death, in 14 rounds of hell, did Ali finally respect him inside and outside of the ring. Ali himself said that he felt he was going to die in "Thrilla in Manila." Both men reportedly pissed blood after the fight.

Manny grew up with nothing. Floyd flaunts his material excesses and ego. That provides combustible material. In human psychology, you do not gain an egoistic person's respect by beating him in material excesses or prestige. They will only get envious and try to one-up you. The way to earn an ego-driven person's respect is to give him a busted lip. Some people cannot be reasoned with. They only respond to force (pain). Floyd - like the Batman and Joker dynamic - is such a personality.

The Blitz as a plan by "Master" Freddie Roach is customized for his graduating pupil - a special lesson for the valedictorian of the class. Manny Pacquiao has already executed the Blitz in his old days, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as a one-armed brawler. He closes off his career against a prolific boxing wizard - a pugilistic Merlin.

Returning to his roots, but this time armed with two-equally deadly arms, on March 13 Roach reveals a strategy, and Manny Pacquiao discloses his awesome firepower early, early, and early. Pressing the action... always pressing the action. Forcing an indomitable will. Taunting Floyd. Like in a schoolyard bullying session, trying to get him to drip blood...

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

A look back at Pacquiao and Mayweather's humble beginnings

2009-12-15T14:22:00.003+08:00

By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo - Pardon me, but allow me to spit some wisdom right quick. Sometimes the only difference between a hero and a bum is press coverage. We all know the heroic exploits of CNN's Hero of the Year award winner Efren Penaflorida now but before all the media coverage and hype he received, you probably would've just snubbed him as he walked past you in the streets. But now, the truly admirable guy gets praised and lauded everywhere he goes.

So when Floyd Mayweather Jr. asked the world where Manny Pacquiao was 15 years ago when he was beating up people and being considered as one of the great prospects in the sport, well the answer is, he was grinding just like Floyd. Truth be told, Manny and Floyd are two of the most dedicated and hardest working boxers to ever laced them gloves up and for all its worth, they do deserve to be where they're at in their careers- on top. No need really to discredit the other based on where they came from. Pacquiao did not have the privilege to be under a decent amateur boxing program like Floyd did and if you pitted them against each other 15 years ago, Mayweather definitely would've made quick work of Pacquiao. But that is why he deserves all the credit in the world for working on his craft under the guidance of the great Freddie Roach. Incidentally however, Floyd has six losses as an amateur.

But to say Pacquiao was a nobody back then when Floyd was already the man is simply a matter of geography and logistics man. Floyd enjoyed the luxury and privilege of being in America and having better opportunities and exposure. Just like my case for example: There are many other far more talented Filipino writers out there who are not only better than me but can definitely hang with the Thomas Hausers of pugulistic journalism that just need to be given a chance but because of their situation, you haven't read a word from them yet.

Back in '95, Pacquiao and Mayweather were already beginning to carve a name for themselves in the professional boxing ranks. Actually, Pacquiao turned pro in January of 1995 and amazingly fought 11 pro fights in a year until he first tasted defeated after being dehydrated and not having the proper diet and training due to poverty and his lifestyle back then. But even then, Pacquiao already displayed the speed, punching power and that lethal left of his which is now being considered as the most potent weapon in boxing.

Floyd on the other hand made his pro debut in October of '96 and also impressively went 11-0 in his first year as a pro. Even back then, Floyd already displayed flashes of his brilliance by knocking down Roberto Apodaca with a beautiful liver shot in the first round.

Check out the earliest pro boxing videos caught on tape of these two brilliant fighters who are on a collision course in one of the most anticipated boxing match-ups in history.

Mayweather's debut fight vs. Roberto Apodaca (10/11/96)

Pacquiao's fourth fight vs. Dele Decierto (7/1/95)

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Mayweather: "I'm an American citizen and want the (US) fans to stand by me like an American soldier"

2009-12-14T22:57:00.003+08:00

By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo - Wake up, America. Floyd Mayweather Jr. wants you to stand up and support him... like an American soldier. Why? Because he needs your support. And because as he stated, he is an American citizen.

If that's not reason enough, maybe you can consider the fact that he might throw some real money on top of the fake money he dishes out during his public appearances. Don't mind if he does not pay his taxes on time at times and yet brags about losing "a looooooot" of money, which quantified he said about a couple of hundred thousand dollars in a week of gambling.

"I'm an American citizen and want the (US) fans to stand by me like an American soldier," said Floyd Mayweather in his appearance on HBO's Joe Buck Live show.

Aware of Pacquiao's popularity, Mayweather already put a gun to American boxing fans' in an attempt to perhaps turn his fight against Pacquiao into USA vs. Philippines. Well unfortunately for Floyd, and fortunately for the Philippines his boxing match against Pacquiao isn't USA vs. The Philippines, otherwise a straight-up war between the two countries isn't even going to last 30 minutes. Come on, let's get real. A world super-power vs. a third-world country? Forget about it.

But here's the thing, Pacquiao earned his fans by dazzling them and putting on a great show. He has re-energized the sport and brought excitement back. Things that you Floyd, have failed to do. In essence, just as most African-Americans who know anything about boxing say (video posted below) "we want Floyd to win, but Pacquiao is a beast." Every time I witness a Pacquiao fight, his fan base just keeps growing. And the thing about Pacquiao as well is that he never disrespected anybody. He is beloved because he treats everyone with respect. He has paid tribute to Mexicans when he was being labeled as "The Mexicutioner". Pacquiao scoffed at the moniker and said he "respects all the Mexican fans" and did not want to be called as such. He earned British fans admiration by destroying Ricky Hatton, yet never said a single insult against "The Hitman". And if he was popular amongst Boricuas when he before he fought Miguel Cotto, he is now also considered as one of their all-time favorite fighters after humbling yet honoring their fallen hero. Pacquiao has even invited Miguel Cotto and his wife to his birthday celebration as guests of honor in the Philippines.

See Floyd, you dug yourself a hole buddy. You alienated all your potential fans and former fans as well by acting like a big clown, throwing away money in public as if finding satisfaction in seeing the world around you struggling for money for the sake of bragging that "you got it, yep!"

Don't take it from me though. The people have spoken. Check out the videos below:

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Malignaggi's steroids theory proves why Pacquiao is great and he isn't

2009-12-11T18:23:00.004+08:00

By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo - There is a saying that opinions are like anuses, everybody got one and they all stink. Well, Paulie Malignaggi definitely has an opinion about everything under the sun, and you got to give the guy some credit for not holding back regardless if you might think his anus, I mean, his opinion, stinks.Malignaggi is a friend of this column and I have interviewed him in the past. I for one was part of the contingent that called for a rematch between him and Juan Diaz which will be taking place this Saturday at the UIC Pavilion in Chicago. With that said, you already know I don't pull any punches and with his recent statements saying he believes Pacquiao is on some form of performance enhancing drugs, one has to wonder his motives. While a guest at The Boxing Truth Radio show, Malignaggi said,

"First and foremost, you talk to body builders they'll tell you themselves, it's very hard to put on 15-17 pounds of body muscle in a year and a half. Let's remember Manny Pacquiao fought at 130 pounds against Juan Manuel Marquez in 08. He fought In November of 09 against Miguel Cotto 15 to 17 pounds heavier. He looked exactly the same out of "rippedness" and "shreddedness", his body did, at 130 pounds. So you're telling me, this guy 6 foot 4, 6 foot 5, body builder telling me that it's impossible to put on that kind of muscle mass in a year and a half naturally,"

"You're telling me this little midget, 5'5 or 5'4, 5'6 the most, put on 15 to 17 in natural weight and his team is going to try and explain it saying he eats 7,000 calories a day and he just burns it. If you eat 7,000 calories a day and you're 5'5, 5'6 my man you are not going to looked ripped, you're gonna look a little bloated."

"Let's look at Manny Pacquiao when he started moving up from 130. He was a very good fighter at 130 and below.When he got hit you can feel it. He was like life and death with Juan Manuel Marquez and he was wobbly a couple of times when Marquez hit him..."

"Ever since that David Diaz fight, I mean is it just me or does this guy seem like he's King Kong since he went up from 130 pounds. And there's no way he was struggling to make 130 because he weighed-in 122 just a few years before that. Let's face it, once you get past 28 years old you're not going anywhere. Let's be realistic here."

"I'm taking facts and I'm putting them together and they don't just make sense to me. I don't have all the facts obviously he's passing the tests (mandatory drug tests before every fight) Let's keep in mind there plenty of things you can do to beat drug tests and there's plenty of drugs and steroids that are not detectable. This guy is hurting guys every time he touches them and HE WASN'T DOING THAT AT THE LIGHTER WEIGHTS."

"At the smaller weights he was very good but he was beatable but now he has gone up in weight and he's not just beating guys and he's crushing world class killers. He's absolutely crushing them!" "He's obviously become a Superman and people say but steroids won't make your chin feel better, yeah, but there's things that can make you feel like you're on speed or something. There's things out there that make you feel like that."

Paulie, Paulie, Paulie... I respect the hell out of you as a boxer but how can you be so ignorantly stupid? I can't help but wonder if it's your bias against Pacquiao due to the fact that he knocked out two of your "daddys" in Cotto and Hatton that's gotten you swirling like a top with your bombastic blabber against him or you are simply trying to gain publicity because anything with Pacquiao attached to it, as we all media types know, will generate a lot of attention.

First and foremost, the facts that Paulie were pointing out are actually hacked. More like selective facts. I mean, before I continue on, I got to wonder, was Paulie simply being sarcastic? Because he did say a lot of flattering things about Pacquiao if you read it that way. And one more thing, why the heck do those who love to hate on Pacquiao have to be the hardest people to understand like Floyd Mayweather Sr? I swear, listening and trying to transcribe Mayweather Sr. is like trying to hear the words from a record playing backwards while Malignaggi talks like he was translating English at the speed of Chinese.

Anyway, going back to the topic at hand, Malignaggi said Pacquiao was not knocking people out at the lower weights. I think someone forgot to mention to Paulie that Ledwaba is still lying on the same canvas from 2001. Here's real facts for you. Since 2001, Pacquiao has either knocked down or knocked out every single opponent he has faced except for Agapito Sanchez (if you saw that fight, you would know why. Sanchez tagged Pacquiao with low blows, head butts and should have been disqualified). Give me a name that Pacquiao fought whom he did not introduce to the mat? Oscar Dela Hoya might be one, but he quit, which to me really is a lot more devastating. I wonder how those facts escaped Paulie.

Second, Pacquiao's two losses in his career were due to being weight-drained. His first loss actually was a low blow, but that's not the point. When someone talks about facts, he must seek them out first. And fact is, Pacquiao himself was saying before the Marquez fight that it would be his last campaign at 130. Pacquiao was naturally getting bigger as he aged. The thing is with Pacquiao however, ever since he stepped foot in US soil, one thing was said about him by people who witnessed him train. From sparring partners, to fans, to writers, all the way to Freddie Roach and Bob Arum themselves. Pacquiao trains like nobody else they've seen their entire lives. Pacquiao is a hard worker.

"There's no fighter in the world that trains harder than Manny Pacquiao." -- Freddie Roach

So onto Paulie's theory that it's impossible for a "midget" like Manny to gain 15 pounds of muscle mass in a year and a half. Okay, first of all, as I stated, Pacquiao was struggling to make 130 and was dehydrated at the weigh-ins against Marquez in March of 08. There were reports at the weigh-ins that Pacquiao was very cranky and that Roach said Manny was having a hard time making that weight and they would move up in weight after that fight.

Enter Alex Ariza. Roach hired Ariza together with nutritionist Teri Tom to help Pacquiao eat better, and to serve as his strength and conditioning coach. Pacquiao never really had scientific guidance in his regimen in the past, thus the addition of the new scientific training and diet really opened up new doors for Manny. Just ask any NBA player like LeBron or Kobe, these new advancements do give you an edge but it comes with hard work, discipline and dedication, not cheating.

Here's what Ariza and Teri said in an article published by Philstar.com in response to accusatins of steroid use and their top client,

“I’m not even going to dignify that with an answer except to say that some guys are more genetically gifted than others,” said Tom who was recruited by Pacquiao’s conditioning coach Alex Ariza to join the training team. “I’ve seen over 900 clients in my nutrition practice – that’s a lot of bodies. I know that guys who’ve thought their whole lives that they’re hard gainers often find out that if we pinpoint exactly how much protein and calories they need, and if we monitor and adapt over time, their genetic potential far exceeds their expectations. Obviously, Manny has incredible genetic gifts. Our job is to bring the most out of those gifts.”

Regarding Mayweather Sr., Ariza said he could only expect crazy comments from someone who didn’t even finish high school.

“We use supplements, not steroids,” said Ariza. “Someone who never finished high school, like Mayweather, wouldn’t understand the difference and that’s why they make dumb comments.”

Asked how much longer Pacquiao could fight at a high level given his age, Tom said “while he just keeps getting stronger and faster, a couple of more fights and he’ll probably move on to politics.”

Tom called Pacquiao’s rise from flyweight to possibly the welterweight champion “an incredible run.”

I can go on forever with this, but since I've already said much about this baseless accusation, one has to realize this. After losing to Erik Morales, Pacquiao and Roach worked tirelessly to improve. Pacquiao had his excuses, as most people do, but at the end of the day, he said what he had to say once and went on and did work. Any competitor hates losing. Real winners however, do what it takes to prevent it from happening again. And talking, just as Malignaggi has done throughout his career, blaming anybody from his trainer, promoter to politics as the reason for him being a second-class fighter, well that's a loser's commodity.

Perhaps Paulie said it best when he said in his closing statement about Pacquiao,

"At the end of the day there's just little bit too much out there and I have a hard time digesting it."

For Paulie's sake, hopefully, this article helps.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Pacquiao opens novelty shop in Manila

2009-12-11T12:32:00.003+08:00

By Dyan Castillejo - Boxing champion Manny Pacquiao opened a souvenier shop offering branded "Team Pacquiao" items in Manila on Tuesday.

Pacquiao, along with his wife Jinkee and his entourage, were greeted by swarms of fans at the Robinson's Mall in Ermita, where the "Team Pacquiao" shop was opened.

The shop sells Manny Pacquiao t-shirts (including Nike branded tees), jackets, boxing gloves, shorts, shoes and trinkets that were reportedly handpicked by Jinkee Pacquiao.

The store's opening came barely 2 months after the Pacquiaos opened a "Team Pacquiao" souvenier shop at the Robinson's Place Mall in General Santos City (GenSan), which is Manny's hometown.

The store also offers a selection of signature Manny Pacquiao clothes and accessories.

Each store carries a distinct "Team Pacquiao" logo on the storefront with a scrawled signature bearing the words "By: Manny Pacquiao" below.

Business acumen

This is not the Pacquiao couple's only foray into business, as the pair have opened a boutique and a chain of coffee shops in GenSan.

Jinkee opened her boutique in August this year called "Jinkee's Fashion World" at the JMP Building along Osmeña Street in GenSan.

The high-class boutique, which has a large framed picture of Jinkee near the store counter, sells earrings, blouses, designer printed bags, watches, hair accessories and wallets.

The glass-paneled, green-walled boutique also carries Manny Pacquiao merchandise like jackets, round-necked t-shirts, and ceramic mugs or plastic tumblers with the trademark "Nike Pacquiao Identity Crest" bearing the boxer's initials.

The Pacquiao couple also opened franchises of BluGre Coffee, Davao's leading specialty coffee shop chain, in GenSan.

One of the coffee shops was opened at the JMP Building and another at the Robinson's Place Mall.

Aside from tending to their blossoming businesses, the Pacquiao couple are also busy preparing for Manny Pacquiao's birthday celebration on December 17.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: abs-cbnnews.com

HBO Sports: Pacquiao vs Mayweather 24/7 Sneak Preview

2009-12-11T12:27:00.003+08:00

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. on Joe Buck Live

2009-12-10T00:59:00.001+08:00

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Pacquiao ignores Mayweather trash talk

2009-12-09T21:46:00.001+08:00

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Pacquiao vs Mayweather (video update), Pacman will get money than Mayweather because he deserves it

2009-12-09T00:53:00.001+08:00

By Ted Gambordella - Here is some great news for all real boxing fans and especially for fans of the Mighty Manny Pacquiao. It is being reported that Pacman will get more than the 50/50 split as originally reported for his fight vs Floyd Mayweather. Here is what boxing.fanhouse.com reports,

Pacquiao's promoter, Top Rank's Bob Arum, will give his fighter a larger guaranteed purse than originally agreed upon, and Arum has been contacted by the Atlanta Falcons' Georgia Dome regarding the potential for being a site for the bout.

The Filipino icon's adviser, Michael Koncz, told FanHouse on Monday that Arum has sweetened the deal for Pacquiao (50-3-2, 38 knockouts),

"Arum presented a package to us, and we did some minor modifications to it. One of the points that we brought up was the guaranteed purse," said Koncz, referring to their interaction during a two-hour meeting involving Pacquiao, Arum and himself, late last week.

"Bob came to us with an offer, we countered it, and we got what we requested," said Koncz. "That [purse] was the major one, and there were some minor issues -- not so much revolving around money, but with other aspects of the fight."

Although there are reports that the combatants agreed to a 50-50 split, and that Pacquiao, at least, was originally guaranteed $20 million -- plus their shares of any upside to the pay per view revenue -- Koncz said that a gag order is in place for both sides and that, under the circumstances, it would be inappropriate to address any numbers.

There are also reports that Mayweather has been guaranteed at least $20 million, that his name will lead the promotion as "Mayweather-Pacquiao," and that the revenue could push each side's earnings toward the $45 million mark.

"The only ones who know the figures are Manny, myself, Bob Arum, [Golden Boy Promotions'] Richad Schaefer and Floyd Mayweather. So there are other figures floating around out there that may or not be accurate," said Koncz, referring to Schaefer, who is representing Mayweather's side.

"In relation to any figures, I will not substantiate them," said Koncz. "There are gag orders in place, and I don't think that it's appropriate that any deals or negotiations should be negotiated in the press."

This is great news for real boxing fans and it is fair, because Manny is the "reason for the season" and will soon be beating Mayweather's butt.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Kanye West’s “Amazing” – Manny Pacquiao All Time Great

2009-12-08T21:23:00.000+08:00

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

"The Pacquiao Manifesto" according to D Source: Worry not about Pacquiao's jump into politics

2009-12-08T14:19:00.002+08:00

By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo - Don't worry about Manny and politics because he won't quit until he wins it. He's gonna do whatever it takes and he never really succumbed to logic. That's why he's where he's at and we're all just marvelling at him. For certain special types of people, the sky is simply the limit. So instead of questioning him, why not emulate him? Instead of "nut-hugging" go out and do something and be the best you can be in whatever it is you feel destined- and never let anybody stop you. Because at the end of the day, it's your life, you can't blame anybody and regret because you did things different.. because you listened to them. do as you please.

If you don't see the point in it, don't wonder like Stevie Wonder, because less than a decade ago, nobody saw his arrival as the next big thing in boxing either. For Pacquiao's legacy as one of the greatest pugilists ever is safe. His name as a first-ballot Hall of Fame has been signed, sealed, delivered. Not even Floyd Mayweather Jr. or a pack of his most determined doubters can alter his place in the sport's history. So if he wants to be the next President of the Philippines, I advise you to let Manny be Manny. He deserves the benefit of the doubt. Nobody is perfect, but only losers keep yapping and contentrating about negative things.

To draw some inspiration from The United States' Declaration of Independence where this line written.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Pursue your happiness. Don't be another one of life's bystanders and watch your life go by, spending criticizing other people's mistakes and life choices. If anything, let Pacquiao's accomplishments be a blueprint for your own success story.

Writer's Note: Allow me to rebut Ambassador Gusi's tirade against Pacquiao in the latest Gusi Peace Prize ceremony, true philanthropy and humanitarianism does not need an "award". And respect is not gained and earned through climbing up a podium in a banquet receiving a token for your efforts amidst the applause of the privileged invitees of such a "distinguished" gathering. If I were part of the names being commended for attending the said Peace Prize ceremony, how appreciated can I really feel by being acknowledged for my Peace efforts as a footnote in an angry tirade aimed to boycott a Filipino by another Filipino in a ceremony in the Philippines? I do not question Gusi's efforts, I do question however his judgment with the way he handled this matter given what he stands for.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Manny Pacquiao: "I got Money to blow"

2009-12-05T19:55:00.003+08:00

By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo - WARNING: This is not intended for the old and the uncool. Just kidding. It's just that all this excitement and tension from Pacquiao-Mayweather finally happening has gotten me flipping like a flipping Filipino kid in a Chocnut shop. It's like a sugar high, a dream come true and that feeling you get when you are about to open a large present under the Christmas tree. And frankly, it is what it is- an early Christmas gift from boxing to it's loyal fans after years of testing their resolve. If you are a Knicks fan, it's something kinda close, except that only one dude named LeBron James coming to the Bronx can give them the same sense of redemption.

So allow me to unload some of the random things that I've been thinking about and feedback from fight fans since this morning upon hearing about this proposed bout almost finally getting sealed and finalized.

If Pacquiao's new "meteor descending from outer space tattoo" on his left forearm makes contact on Floyd's chin, it would definitely leave a trail of destruction on Planet Mayweather and leave "Money" looking like 2012.

We already know Mayweather will box, dance, avoid and run all night against Pacquiao which could very well mean a unanimous decision victory for him, BUT, you got to understand, Pacquiao is a southpaw, so that shoulder roll defensive technique won't be as effective. And somehow, people still haven't learned their lesson and still underestimate Pacquiao's intelligence in the ring. And can you imagine how loud the "boos" will be once Floyd goes on his skates against Manny? Manny will eventually force Floyd to fight. This won't be a repeat of "The World Awaits" trust me.

A lot of people are worrying about Pacquiao's health, well, honestly I think he was in worse shape after his rematch against Marquez and fought Diaz just 3 months after. Word from my insiders tell me Manny is feeling brand new these days. The busted ear drum will heal and the cauliflower ear is no big deal. Just ask all the high school wrestlers and MMA fighters out there. Pacquiao is built from sterner stuff. Actually a fight before the elections to me is more favorable than doing it after. Pacquiao will be drained by the campaigning process in the Philippines. Trust me, I know. I got family inside politics. It could be more punishing than 2 months of training at the Wild Card Gym. Plus, Pacquiao's body is still in good shape from his Cotto training. Didn't Freddie Roach himself say not too long ago that he prefers Manny to stay active rather than take long breaks? And at the end of the day, Pacquiao will not agree to fight on March 13 if he didn't feel like his body wasn't up to it. End of argument.

Have you heard Money May's most popular rap single titled "Yep"? Well it goes something like this:

Well the video proved two things: 1) A nice beat isn't enough to make a talentless wannabe rapper sound good. 2) Floyd Mayweather Jr. knows how to count to 10 - Yep!!!

Not that Pacquiao is any good at singing either. But heck, how fun would it be to see these two go on a rap battle? And I got the perfect track and lyrics for Pac to spit at Money.

I Got Money To Blow (originally by Bird Man feat. Drake and Lil Wayne - if you don't know, you're too old! Kidding, kidding... I don't want to offend my buddy Marley in NYC. But then again, that guy is more up to date than most cats my age. Shoot, only Marley can talk about writing a crossover article about Lady Gaga and get away with it.)

Lyrics:

[Intro - Pacman & Drake]

Yeah
Coming to you live from
City of… GensanHollywoodVegas
So what it do young pinja? (pinoy ninja), 100

[Verse 1 - Pacman]
I am on a 24 hour
Tinola diet, hookin’ while I’m slippin’
I encourage you to try it
I’m probably just sayin’ that cause I don’t get hit by it
Hatton and Cotto went down like a Vegas chic
Boy I’m on that fly sh%t
I am what everybody in my past don’t want me to be
Guess what I made it
I’m the motherlovin’ man
I just want you to see
Come take a look, get a load of this slugger
Quit fronting on me
Don’t come around and try to gas me up
I like runnin’ on E
I… I… I… I’m ready to chase Floyd all night
He can be Peter Pan Imma be Captain Hook
And my new Ferrari faster than Floyd's Bentley
He can try to run but Imma out-quick him quickly

Damn where my roof just go?
Just like Money when he feels my Marco Bolo
He gon lose his thoughts and repeat "damn where my roof just go?"
Top slipped off like Janet at the Superbowl
I got ‘em

[Chorus - Drake]
They can’t help it and I can’t blame them
Since I got famous
They ducking me like Donald...
On March 13, I got "Money" to blow
Gettin’ it in
Letting these bums fall
Be cutting his skin
I got "Money" to blow-oh oh ohh
Oh oh ohh, oh oh ohh, I got oh oh ohh
I got money to blow-oh oh ohh
Oh oh ohh, oh oh ohh, got "Money" to blow

From the forums:

Poster "Perro" at boxingscene.com wrote:

VS Hatton, Floyd only landed 129 in 10 rounds; Manny landed 73 in two! For you geniuses, that's...

Pacquiao - 37 punches per round @ 57%

Mayweather - 13 punches per round @ 39%

And against Oscar, Manny out-landed Floyd, 224 to 207 in only 8 rounds to Floyd's full 12 rounds.

And lastly, short and sweet. Don't expect this fight happening anywhere else other than Las Vegas. nufsed!

There you go... Just some random thoughts. I know some of you might not be able to relate, but hey, at least you can say you are a tad bit "cooler" now. You know them haters hate cause they simply can't relate. I take risks like Pacquiao, unlike others I don't play it safe. Love it, hate it, it's all good. Let the chips fall where they may.

And for the record, I don't hate Floyd Mayweather Jr. He will pose a lot of problems for Pacquiao and is a defensive wizard in the ring. Now before I hear Floyd start saying "Stop jocking me", I simply believe Pacquiao will beat him. Real talk.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Pacquiao vs Mayweather likely for March

2009-12-05T17:55:00.005+08:00

Manny Pacquiao likely will fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. on March 13 after agreeing to a proposal from promoter Bob Arum on Friday.

Arum presented "what he thought was the best proposal he can bring" during a two-hour breakfast meeting with Pacquiao in Manila, said Michael Koncz, an adviser of the Philippine boxing idol.

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

He said the contract still needs "fine-tuning," declining to elaborate.

"We all believe that it will be done," Koncz said.

In an interview with GMA television, Pacquiao said, "March 13 is OK."

"The difference between Floyd and others I have fought is that Floyd makes a lot of trash talk that should not be imitated by young people," he said.

Arum could not be reached for comment.

If the deal is completed, the bout would be contested at 147 pounds for the welterweight title, a source told ESPN.com's Dan Rafael.

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

Pacquiao is running for a congressional seat in May 2010 elections and official campaigning won't start before April.

If the bout goes ahead, it will match two men regarded as the best pound-for-pound fighters.

Boxing fans have been looking forward to a superfight between Pacquiao and the undefeated Mayweather after the Filipino champion defeated Miguel Cotto last month.

The March 13 date comes four months after the Cotto fight -- a shorter period of time than the six months after Pacquiao defeated Ricky Hatton. But Koncz said it will be enough time for Pacquiao to get back in shape.

"Nobody knows his body better than Manny," he said. "If Manny feels that that's plenty of time to rest and recover, then you know, he has to do what he feels is right."

He said Pacquiao "cannot train for more than seven weeks."

If the fight is agreed upon, there likely would be a Jan. 11 news conference in New York to announce it. The bout could be the richest ever, assuming pay-per-view projections are accurate.

Representatives of the Superdome in New Orleans and the new Cowboys Stadium in Dallas have expressed interest in hosting the fight, as has the MGM Grand hotel-casino in Las Vegas, where the fighters have had their biggest fights. There is also a proposal for a 30,000-seat temporary stadium on the Las Vegas Strip across from the Wynn resort.

Oddsmakers are already taking bets on the fight, with most making Mayweather a slight favorite.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: sports.espn.go.com

Roach: Manny Pacquiao is a machine but needs 12-week camp for Mayweather

2009-12-04T15:07:00.002+08:00

By Gareth A Davies - Freddie Roach, in Newcastle, England, where he is overseeing Amir Khan’s WBA 140lb title defence against Dmitriy Salita here on Saturday night, insists that his Filipino dynamo “is a machine” but revealed at the head to head news conference that he would rather see Manny Pacquiao fight Floyd Mayweather in May than March 2010.

“We’re going to need a 12-week camp for Mayweather, because we need to look at all the possibilities and work everything out for this fight,” Roach told me. “The March date would be too early. It has got to be May.”

As to Pacquiao being “a machine”, Roach said: “I’ve had the opportunity to work with a lot of great fighters. From day 1 until now everything we’ve worked on has come into play. He’s a dangerous guy at this point in his life. He’s a machine. You wind him up, and let him go. He’s different. How many guys can go from 112lbs to 147lbs and still be competitive. He’s a throwback. Guys like him come once in a lifetime.”

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: blogs.telegraph.co.uk

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Unofficial 24/7 Teaser

2009-12-04T01:54:00.001+08:00

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Unofficial 24/7 Teaser

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Jr. Teaser

2009-12-04T01:36:00.001+08:00

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Teaser

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Roy Jones, Jr. officially hands March 13 HBO date to Arum, Pacquiao, and Mayweather

2009-12-03T15:12:00.002+08:00

By Matt Stolow - Roy Jones, Jr. just handed Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather, Jr. the March 13 date that they may covet after he was knocked out in a single stunning round by Danny Green in Australia earlier today.

Obviously I'm being facetious as his tentative HBO Pay-Per-View date with Bernard Hopkins has suffered a serious blow with the loss by the 40-year-old Jones to the 36 -year-old Green.

Jones had to win the Green fight for the Hopkins fight to happen on HBO.

Hopkins fights later tonight live on the Versus Network (7 PM Central) and they will have plenty of time to broadcast the Green - Jones highlights as they expected to do anyway.

It was from all reports a clean knockout without controversy.

"We don't make excuses. It was a great fight by Danny," said Jones

Jones will enjoy a long and quiet, solemn plane ride home to contemplate his future as a viable fighter as we head into 2010.

I don't see any positives Jones can look to as to continuing to fight on and this may finally signal the official end to his obvious future Hall of Fame career.

Although Green was a title holder years ago at light heavyweight, he himself had come out of retirement and at best was considered a come backing second - tier fighter looking for a payday.

Jones has had his promoter's license (Square Ring Promotions) for several years and has a full staff of employees and a stable of young fighters so he could easily ease into the role of full - time promoter out of his Pensacola, Florida offices.

I'm hoping Jones takes this stunning setback seriously and after a short rest makes it official that he's hanging up the gloves for good.

However, Jones is one of the most stubborn individuals I know and this is a difficult decision for him. His stubbornness is probably part of what has made him successful in his career but doors are going to close on him after this loss to Green.

This loss finally gives independent TV producers the opportunity to say no to the great Roy Jones, Jr.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Arum hand delivers Mayweather offer that Pacquiao can't refuse

2009-12-03T14:03:00.002+08:00

By Michel Marley - As you read this, a soon-to-turn-age-78-year-old named Robert Arum is piling up the frequent flyer miles from Las Vegas to Manila.

The Top Rank Top Dog isn’t going to the Philippines to discuss Sarangani local politics with Manny Pacquiao.

And he's not traveling through all those time zones and across the International Date Line to extend sympathy because Sports Illustrated tabbed Yankees superstar Derek Jeter as Sportsman of the Year over the more deserving National Fist.

He’s going to see his star client with a firm deal in hand for Pacman to face undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr. on March 13 in a Las vegas mega bout.

Forget the smokescreens about Pacman fighting junior middleweight champ and rabbinical student Yuri Foreman. And ditto for the one about Mayweather going to Manchester to beat up Matthew Hatton or, as we like to refer to him, Matty Hatty.

Arum has what he feels is a fair and viable deal in hand and he will present same to Pacman for a thumbs up or a thumbs down

If Pacquiao is amenable, septuagenarian Arum might even seal the big deal before his Dec. 8 bithday and well before Dec. 17, when Megamanny turns age 31.

They used to say, “Don’t trust anyone over 30” back in the New Age, Woodstock Generation but promoter and fighter have come to trust each other as they have piled up millions of dollars in tandem in recent Pacquiao bouts, victories all for the Pinoy Idol.

It’s an easy guess that, at least publicly, the revenue split will be said to be 50-50 and I feel that is fair to both sides. Mayweather is unbeaten, he is an American fighting in his homeland and he used to occupy the Pound For Pound throne which now belongs to Pacman.

The working date is March 13 and, again, I totally discount Texas Stadium.

What happens in Vegas won’t stay there when casino operators work together to land this whopper, this once in a generation mega fight.

When Vegas steps up, it will be, “Fumble, Jerry Jones, fumble Cowboys!”

Fight fans won’t have to beware the Ides of March, instead they will embrace it for the Biggest fight That Can Possibly Be Made is coming to fruition.

What say you, Megamanny?

The money is right, the legacy is there for the taking.

In this case, I hope Pacquiao does like Jim Carrey in that movie.

I hope Pacquiao is a “Yes Man.”

Arum lands in Manila bearing an offer, Manny, that you can’t refuse.

It's your move now, Manny.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Pacquiao promises Mayweather pain: "There will be some lingering ill-feelings"

2009-12-02T16:15:00.002+08:00

By Dennis "dSource" Guillermo - As the saying goes, a dog that is ready to bite doesn't do a lot of barking. And as short as the four words he uttered to officially confirm his desire to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr.- anytime, anywhere- when he said "For the record, yes," Manny Pacquiao's choppers are sharp, and ready to gobble up another big name to add to his already legendary resume.

This one will be different however. And Pacquiao may have very well saved the best for last. Truth be told, I would not want to be "Money" Mayweather when he faces the Pac Man in the ring whenever, wherever- if ever. I can even say this without any least bit of exaggeration. I'm afraid for Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Why you ask? Simple. The mini-monster that has been destroying boxing legend after boxing legend is actually mad for the first time. In an interview with GMA TV in the Philippines not too long ago, Pacquiao, who admittedly is annoyed with all the baseless accusations the Father-and-son team of the Mayweathers have done to discredit him and link his name to steroids (the Nevada State Athletic Commission has repeatedly stated Pacquiao has never failed their intensive drug tests) said,

"I consulted my attorney about the issue, and he (Mayweather Sr.) got scared, so he withdrew all his accusations. He said that he was just joking around, and that the statement that he made about me using steroids wasn't true."

and added,

"If our fight happens... maybe he should warn his son that there will be some lingering ill-feelings there because of his accusations."

I don't know about you and I'm telling you the cultural difference between Filipinos and African-Americans have something to do with this case because I have never heard Manny make any form of warning or threat of this nature in the past. Granted he was smiling when he made the comment, but I can read through his words and the manner in which he said the statement that Pacquiao is salivating to get his paws on Floyd Jr. If there were a way that both Sr. and Jr. could be in the ring at the same time, it's safe to say that Pacquiao would welcome it. What trash-talking is to a lot of African-Americans, which for the most part is simply aimed at intimidation, to a Filipino warrior like Pacquiao, it's a promise. Floyd can bark all he wants, Pacquiao is ready to bite.

The question is, will it be a dog-fight if these two men do lace em up? Or will it be a cat-and-mouse, or should I say dog and pussie (cat) chase all night long? With Pacquiao's speed and unorthodox style however, I think it wouldn't really matter as much as a lot of people think it would. Sooner or later, Pacquiao will get to Mayweather. And I don't care how good of a defensive fighter you are, matter of fact, it might even amount for more against Floyd who isn't used to getting hit. Once one of Pacquiao's left "See you at the Karaoke Party" punches land flush on an opponent's jaw, it's over. And I don't see enough heart in Floyd to even get back up and put up a fight like Miguel Cotto did when that happens. If I were Floyd Mayweather Jr., I'd be scared too.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Manny Pacquiao prefers basketball to boxing, says Roach

2009-12-02T15:51:00.001+08:00

By Gareth A. Davies - Revelation from trainer Freddie Roach about fighter-turning-politician Manny Pacquiao. Pacquiao might be spoken about at present as one of the greatest boxers ever, yet Roach revealed to me: “Deep down, Manny prefers basketball to boxing. It’s his favourite sport, more so than boxing. He did an advert with Kobe Bryant, but he doesn’t like watching the LA Lakers. He likes to play basketball rather than watch it.” “He gets to play basketball up to four weeks before a fight; and he wants to play every day. It makes me nervous. He puts it all in when he plays. He could so easily break a finger or turn an ankle. But he loves it so much that if I told him not to play – he’d do it anyway behind my back.”

“So I work out a deal with him, and we agree that he can play basketball up to a month before a fight. Then his word is good. No one can tell Manny P what to do anymore, but you can negotiate with him.”

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: blogs.telegraph.co.uk

Fight analysis: 4 boxers who outfought Mayweather, Jr (Part 1)

2009-12-02T13:39:00.005+08:00

By Marv Dumon - Intro: Many boxing analysts and gamblers initially peg Floyd Mayweather, Jr (40-0) as a slight betting favorite over WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao (50-3-2). These odds are sensible, and probably correct. It's tough to argue with an omnipotent marketplace.

However, we explore four boxers that have given Mayweather, Jr (either temporary or sustained) problems in the ring. There are several potential reasons for avoiding the welterweights in his division. Floyd encountered problems with these four boxers, and those avoided welterweights would exacerbate Floyd's tactical risks. These lessons can be leveraged by Freddie Roach and Manny Pacquiao, and lay the foundation for a strategic war plan.

Tale of the Tape:

Age: Manny: 31 Floyd: 33 ( By fight night )

[No advantage for either fighter. Floyd is a fresher fighter. Manny has been more active.]

Height: Manny: 5' 6.5" Floyd: 5' 8"

[Slight advantage for Mayweather, Jr. Manny can somewhat negate this advantage by fighting low, as well as, by bobbing and weaving which could expose Floyd's body to pugilistic explosions.]

Reach: Manny: 67" Floyd: 72"

[Herein lies Manny's biggest disadvantage - he gives up a 5 inch reach against a fighter with the best jab in the sport, both in quickness and accuracy. This factors into Floyd as an early betting favorite.]

Official Weigh-in: Manny: 145 lbs (est) Floyd: 147 lbs (est)

[Undoubtedly, the weight limit is a main negotiating point between both camps. Top Rank's Bob Arum will fight for 145 lbs, while Richard Schaefer of Golden Boy Promotions will aim for a full 147 lb welterweight weight limit. This is a big variable in the fight. Floyd officially weighed in against Juan Manuel Marquez at 146 lbs, suggesting that he may be uncomfortable coming in at 145 lbs.]

Fighting Weight: Manny: 150 lbs (est) Floyd: 157 lbs (est)

[Size is Manny's second disadvantage. However, the bigger opponent in this case will be just as fast, and just as smart. Floyd can adjust to an opponent's gameplan in real time. While Manny is a master in his own right, Freddie Roach's advice for adjustments during the fight comes in three-minute intervals, at the end of each round. Something Floyd does not have to wait for. This makes Roach's and Pac's initial battleplan going into the fight that much more critical for success. Most likely, they will concoct a Plan A, a Plan B, and a Plan C so that Manny, like Floyd, can also adjust in real time.]

# 1

2002: Jose Luis Castillo 1

Rounds 5 and 6

Rounds 10 and 11

Analysis: In rounds 5 and 6, Mexican lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo brilliantly lures Mayweather into a physical fight. Castillo played rough, and boxed dirty - holding Mayweather and often hitting him late (after a referee's break). A roughed up Mayweather underwent spurts of ineffectiveness, and there were times in which he was simply uncomfortable being inside the ring. However, it must also be noted that this fight took place in 2002 and Floyd has since morphed into a defensive wizard.

In rounds 10 and 11, Floyd was forced to aggressively fight Castillo due to the closer than expected scorecards. Against Manny, Floyd's foremost priority will be to win the early rounds in order to avoid direct engagement with the southpaw dynamo. The Filipino packs a more powerful punch than Castillo. Additionally, Pacquiao's unorthodox style, weaving attack, and blazing speed pose more problems. This dynamic (the perceived scores entering the final rounds) is the most critical variable to how the fight plays out in the pound-for-pound "championship rounds."

Comments: If Pacquiao should emerge victorious against Mayweather, and that's an if, the first Castillo fight serves as a shining expose into Floyd's major weakness. He is a fragile fighter with a suspect chin, and he will wear down later in the rounds. "Master" Roach knows this. Floyd will be bigger than Manny - effectively a junior middleweight - but the dynamic Pacquiao also packs explosive power in both fists.

Did Floyd really beat Castillo in the first bout? Officially yes. Unofficially, that is debatable. The statistics are shockingly revealing. Through the first nine rounds, both men were just as accurate with power punches (Castillo, 44% to Mayweather, 43%). However, Castillo landed a whopping 98 power shots out of 228 thrown to Floyd's 37 of 87 power shots. Castillo's higher work rate was effective against Floyd. It was a close call for the three judges. Floyd won a hotly contested decision.

Lesson # 1.1: Floyd will need to make Manny pay for being the more active fighter. That is accomplished through timing Manny when he moves in, with accurate and quick jabs from a safe distance, and counters. Unfortunately for Pacquiao's camp, Floyd is the best fighter in the sport to accomplish all three. If Floyd can do these three things (timing, accurate jabs, and counters) for the first three or four rounds, the fight is over. And Manny will break down by round 8.

Lesson # 1.2: Conversely, Castillo has provided Roach and Pacquiao with a template for putting a serious hurt on Floyd. Manny's power in both hands, combined with a higher work rate, can both wear down the bigger opponent as well as impress judges. The latter will be more critical. Because this fight will go the full 12 rounds. Here, three judges will decide who wins the "Fight of the Century."

Caveat: The Floyd version that fought Marquez is much better and bigger than the Floyd who showed up to fight Castillo.

# 2

2006: Zab Judah

Round 1

Round 2

Judah's size is very similar to Pacquiao's. Zab stands at 5' 7" tall, with a 22" arm length (compared to Floyd's 26" arm length). However, a relatively stationary Judah appeared to have outboxed Mayweather, Jr with jabs. Then-welterweight champion Judah's quick jabs landed on Floyd despite having shorter arms.

Due to the scoring favor the first couple of rounds, Floyd was forced to adjust and fight more aggressively. Unfortunately for Judah, he simply could not keep up with Mayweather's handspeed and skills.

During the second round, Zab caught Floyd with a lightning quick right as Mayweather lunged forward. This should have been scored a knockdown (which it was not) since Floyd's gloves grazed the ring. This punch underscores Floyd's vulnerability as a fighter when he attacks. Manny will have opportunities to counter Floyd. However, the flip side is also true. Manny will be vulnerable to Floyd's counters, especially if Manny fully commits on his jabs. Think Erik Morales 1 and the fights with Juan Manuel Marquez.

Lesson # 2.1:

If Judah could land on this version (2006) of Floyd, so can Manny. Mayweather is an orthodox right-handed boxer (with his left as his lead front hand). He is surprisingly vulnerable to the body when he chooses to have a more offensive stance. However, Mayweather had a pretty squared up shoulder in facing Zab, and used less of a shoulder roll defense. In other words, Floyd was not defensively oriented during the first two rounds. This may, or may not, be the case versus a dangerous southpaw like Manny. Therefore, we should be careful from comparing apples and oranges.

The Judah fight does show that Floyd is hittable, even when backing up. Remember, Judah fought with a 22" arm length (similar to Manny's 23") compared to Floyd's 26". Was this part of a brilliant strategy by the Mayweather camp to draw in Judah - to make him come forward? Possibly. This may have been a trick/ploy from Floyd. By being aggressive himself, he invited Judah's attack so Floyd could outclass him with accurate counters. As Judah grew in (false) confidence, Floyd outboxed Judah in the later rounds. Roach and Pacquiao may have used this same strategy against Cotto. Manny pretended to be vulnerable in the first two rounds to invite Cotto forward, and to make Cotto vulnerable by letting the Puerto Rican throw his lead left jabs (his best punch, along with the left hook to the body). This allowed Manny to outclass an opened up Cotto, who became susceptible to counters to the body from Manny's left, and to blows to the head from Manny's right hook.

Lesson # 2.2: The outcome of Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather, Jr will be decided in the first four rounds (with an estimated 80% confidence level). Just like chess - how you open up the board dictates how the pieces will be positioned and played for the duration of the game. The opening determines two military principles: (1) the operational tempo - the "rhythm," and speed with which your forces engage the enemy. For instance, the U.S. Navy Seals have a "shock and awe" tempo against its adversaries. And, (2) the "center of gravity" - where your forces/power are concentrated. Is the "center of gravity" to the left, to the right, in the middle, against the ropes, is it dispersed? Roach will want a definable and tangible center of gravity. Floyd will want a dispersed and undefinable center of gravity. At the very least, Floyd wants a dynamic and constantly shifting center of gravity so that his accurate punches can slow down and/or stop a probably advancing Pacquiao.

Analogy:

A good analogy to use is this. Manny is like a roving tank looking to bulldoze his enemy once engaged - or if he can engage at all. Floyd will be hiding with his camouflage uniform setting up all kinds of landmines and anti-personnel devices to (hopefully) blow up that roving tank.

Samurai vs Ninja.

If there is a deciding factor for either fighter in the first four rounds, that reveals our winner (again, probably with an 80% confidence level). The main unpredictability in the later rounds comes with Manny's capability of knocking down Floyd once - which would alter the scorecards.

Lesson # 2.3: A peak-shape Pacquaio probably enjoys less than a 10% or 15% chance of stopping a full-fledged junior middleweight Floyd by KO or TKO. Floyd will not stop Manny either (The Filipino was able to walk through Miguel Cotto's heaviest blows), unless of course Floyd lands a tremendous punch (which is possible). By Manny in peak-shape, we mean that Manny is not training in Baguio City, Cebu, or Manila.

It will be a highly foolish and over-confident move by Team Pacquiao to train in the Philippines for this fight. Unfortunately for the People's Champ, he is constantly being bothered by "yes men," a** kissers, parasites, useless hangers on, beggars, and others pitching business deals. Manny has indicated that he would like to train in the Philippines for his next fight. From a political and business standpoint, this is prudent. He has roughly $10 million in campaign funds at stake for his May 2010 congressional electoral bid - and in his first campaign in 2007, it was reported that people simply stole his political war chest.

However, in terms of boxing, training in the Philippines will be a colossal strategic blunder against Floyd Mayweather, Jr. The Mayweather camp knows this and have their fingers crossed. Manny may be a seven time titlist in seven weight classes, but this is an area where the Titanic will be sailing full speed in the northern Atlantic confident that it can crush anything in its path, including glaciers. Congressional candidate Pacquiao may win an election. But if he goes down this path of distraction, he will lose the fight of the century. As Roach said, Manny is incapable of succeeding in both (at the same time). This will be a critical power struggle to watch and follow. That is, the power struggle between Pacquiao and Roach. Because we can already surmise that Manny will insist on Baguio or somewhere else in the Philippines. Roach will try to do what is best - he may be called "Master," but he may only have partial control of training now, at this stage of Manny's career. Training in the archipelago would be suicidal against Floyd.

The bombardment of distractions from politicians, the entertainment industry, and from the media will be enormous. History always gives us clues. When the Americans fought the Japanese in the second world war, did they place all their eggs in Bataan and Corregidor? No, at the last minute they pulled out key personnel (such as General Douglas MacArthur) in order to plan and stage a comeback. If this fight is scheduled for May or June, essentially Manny has a choice to make. Politics or boxing? Which one. Against the greatest defensive wizard of the past 10 years, this is a mutually exclusive choice. Even President Franklin Roosevelt had to make a choice. Germany or Japan? He prioritized Germany first. Then Japan. If the U.S. fought both theaters with equal prioritization at the same time, we may be yelling Heil Hitler! every morning today on our way to work or school.

Concentration of forces - center of gravity - is an inviolable principle of warfare. There are no exceptions to this rule. Zero. For thousands of years, this has been a tried and tested doctrine; from the days of warring Chinese kingdoms; to the Great Crusades that sought to free Jerusalem from the Muslims - and the use of enormously constructed siege towers; to Genghis Khan's use of heavy cavalry against fortified towns, to Hannibal the Annihilator using guerilla warfare and tactical advantages from the weather and landscape against the numerically superior ancient Roman legions; to Julius Caesar erecting two fortified walls to trap the numerically superior Gauls inside their city on a hill, and to prevent reinforcements from rescuing the trapped city. Will Manny learn the hard way? Four thousand years of history says "Yes."

The Pacquiao that embarrassed Oscar de la Hoya was probably the best version of Manny Pacquiao ever. That version was flawless, and better than the one who fought Miguel Cotto. Which brings us to our third boxer.

Caveat: The Floyd version that fought Marquez is much better and bigger than the Floyd who showed up to fight Castillo or Judah.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Mayweather running out of excuses not to fight Manny Pacquiao

2009-11-26T23:16:00.002+08:00

By Scott Heritage - Floyd Mayweather has made it obvious in numerous interviews that he only boxes these days for the money and fame. However he is still an all time great boxer, albeit not in a particularly crowd pleasing way, and is still one of the biggest draws in boxing today.

It has been said throughout Mayweather's career that he ducked the best fighters and those who he thought posed the greatest risk to him. Most recently he avoided both Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito, much to the chagrin of the promoter of the pair Bob Arum.

Is Mayweather slowing down?

Mayweather fought a much smaller fighter in his last fight after his short 'retirement' in Juan Manuel Marquez. Not only this, but he came in over weight and further assured he woud have an easy fight. The fact of the mattter could be that Mayweather is simply past his best, and can only keep his unbeaten record in tact by taking easier fights than he did in the past. Similarly there were moments when he struggled with the aggressive but predictable Ricky Hatton, and nearly faltered against an arguably over the hill De La Hoya.

Pacquiao has beaten a lot of the same opponents as Mayweather, and has generally made easier work of them than he did. If Mayweather knows he isn't what he once was, then a fight against Pacquiao is the last thing his unbeaten record needs.

A man trapped by his own ego?

Despite the fact that Mayweather probably doesn't want to fight Pacquiao, it seems he may be forced into doing so by his own ego and pride. In the past he has been able to avoid fighters he didnt want to fight by virtue of the fact that there were always other options out there for him. Now however he finds himself with seemingly only one option left, and that option is Manny Pacquiao. Mayweather doesn't want to fight the other welterweights, and faces derision if he fights undersized opponents like Marquez again.

The latest

The latest from both sides seems to suggest that negotiations are going well, although other reports are saying that Mayweather is training for a fight in England next, against one or other of the Hattons. Ricky Hatton is semi retired and has already lost to Mayweather, and Matthew is less dangerous and recently drew in a close fight with Lovemore Ndou. Neither seems like a very appealing match up for Mayweather at this stage, although either would suffice as a tune up so long as the Pacquiao fight goes ahead in May.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: examiner.com

Pacquiao vs Mayweather Confirmation

2009-11-26T22:09:00.001+08:00

J. Monte reports breaking news in this jam-packed edition of TruFan Boxing, hosted by Tiffany Smith. Correspondent J. Monte goes coast-to-coast in this episode, as he, and a few others, provide the time and odds of the upcoming Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Fight! Also featured is a visit to Wild Card Gym - the West Coast's premiere training club, as well as a chat with Light Welterweight Challenger Dmitri Salita.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: inasectv.com

Pacquiao vs Mayweather in negotiations

2009-11-25T17:22:00.004+08:00

By Dan Rafael - Let the talks begin.

Formal negotiations in an effort to make a megafight between pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. in the first part of 2010 will open Monday, Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaefer told ESPN.com.

Schaefer was on his way Monday morning from Los Angeles to Las Vegas to meet Top Rank's Bob Arum, Pacquiao's promoter, for lunch at the MGM Grand, which has hosted several Pacquiao and Mayweather fights.

"Floyd and me want to see if we can get the fight done," said Schaefer, who, although he doesn't have a promotional contract with Mayweather, has represented him in his past three fights and was asked to represent him in these talks. "The fact that I am flying to Las Vegas to meet with Bob shows you how serious our side is about making the fight.

"Bob and I will approach this without egos and try to get it done under fair terms. Floyd gave me his marching orders and I will see today how it goes and report back."

A pairing of Pacquiao and Mayweather is the biggest fight boxing has to offer and could break all sorts of revenue records.

In the year's biggest fight earlier this month, Pacquiao (50-3-2, 38 KOs) beat Miguel Cotto on a technical knockout in the 12th round to win a welterweight title, his seventh title in a record seven weight divisions.

The fight sold 1.25 million units on pay-per-view and generated more than $70 million in domestic television revenue.

Mayweather (40-0, 25 KOs), the former welterweight champ and pound-for-pound king before a short-lived retirement, returned on Sept. 19 to dominate lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez in a lopsided unanimous decision.

That fight generated 1.05 million buys on pay-per-view.

The all-time pay-per-view record is the 2.44 million buys generated by Mayweather's 2007 win against Oscar De La Hoya.

"I can confirm I am meeting with Richard, but I'm not going to talk about the specifics," Arum told ESPN.com. "It's a meeting where we will try to make the fight. Whether it can be made or not in this meeting, I don't know. We'll see what we will see."

Schaefer said he hopes he and Arum can make the fight quickly, rather than dragging the talks out for weeks.

"As part of the negotiations both Bob and I had to agree to keep all discussions confidential," Schaefer said. "No further comments will be made until such time that we either have a deal or the negotiations fall apart."

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Source: sports.espn.go.com

Manny Pacquiao Says He Wants To Fight Floyd Mayweather Jr!

2009-11-24T21:12:00.001+08:00

Manny Pacquiao confirms that he wants to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr.

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. Exclusive Interview: "I'll easily beat Manny Pacquiao"

2009-11-17T00:17:00.002+08:00

Floyd Mayweather Jr. says Manny Pacquiao is easy work and easy money!

For more Pacquiao vs Mayweather news updates, visit http://pacquiao-vs-mayweather.cebuspace.com/.