Bayless to referee Pacquiao-Cotto title bout

The Nevada State Athletic Commission has named Kenny Bayless as the third man in the ring for next month’s title fight between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.

And for a man as superstitious as the “Pacman," Bayless’ appointment as referee in the Nov. 14 showdown for Cotto’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas should come as a welcome development.

And why not? In all three previous Pacquiao fights that Bayless officiated, the pride of General Santos City ended up triumphant.

Bayless first officiated in a Pacquiao bout back in 2006 when the 30-year-old boxing icon scored a 10th round demolition of Mexican Erik Morales in their celebrated rematch.

Two years after, Bayless was also the referee during Pacquiao’s dramatic 12-round split decision victory over nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez during their highly-awaited return bout.

Bayless was also the referee when the world’s reigning pound-for-pound king hacked out a brutal second round technical knockout of Ricky Hatton last May.

The same commission from Las Vegas also made public the names of the three judges working the 12-round Pacquiao-Cotto title match, namely Duane Ford, Dave Moretti and Adelaide Byrd.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao shrugged off the recent scuffle that marred his training camp in Baguio involving conditioning coach Alex Ariza and close adviser Michael Koncz.

“Everything is under control," Pacquiao said with a wink and a smile on his face.

Reports emanating from the summer capital had it that Ariza threw punches against Koncz, whom the soft-spoken conditioning coach had accused of trying to block his accreditation to be in Pacquaio’s corner for the Cotto fight. - GMANews.TV

Source:
            GMANews TV

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'La Diva' to sing RP anthem in Pacquiao-Cotto bout

MANILA – Three artists, not just one, will sing the country’s national anthem in Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s much anticipated showdown with Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto on November 14 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The people’s champ confirmed to abs-cbnNEWS.com in an exclusive interview that “La Diva,” dubbed as the Destiny’s Child of the Philippines,” will sing “Lupang Hinirang” in the Pacquiao-Cotto “Firepower” clash.

The pop girl group is composed of “Pinoy Pop Superstar” champions Jonalyn Viray (soprano), Aicelle Santos (alto) and Maricris Garcia (mezzo-soprano).

Viray is the 1st grand champion of the singing contest, while Garcia is the 3rd Pinoy Pop Superstar champion. Santos, on the other hand, was a runner-up in the second season.

Pacquiao said the three auditioned in the early part of this year. Other artists from networks ABS-CBN and GMA 7 also took part in the audition, he said. The boxer cited Jolina Magdangal as one of those who wanted to sing the national anthem.

The Filipino boxing icon was particularly impressed by the “La Diva” when he saw them perform. He added that he believes “La Diva” will do justice in singing “Lupang Hinirang” next month.

The boxing champion also admitted that he was told that international singers Charice and Lea Salonga were interested in singing the national anthem for the fight.

"Pero hindi ko naman sila nakausap. Kung nakausap ko, siguro sila. Pero ‘yong ‘La Diva’ kasi, na-oo-han ko na. Mahirap naman at baka masabi wala akong isang salita," Pacquiao explained.

According to law

To avoid any controversy like what happened to Nievera when he sang “Lupang Hinirang” in Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton bout on May 2, Pacman assured that the trio group will sing the national anthem according to what the law prescribes.

The National Historical Institute (NHI) lambasted Nievera for his alleged "wrong" rendition of the "Lupang Hinirang."

Critics said Nievera sang the first part of the song too slowly and should not have belted out the last words of the song.

The NHI said this constituted a violation of Section 37 of Republic Act 8491 or the 1998 Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines, which states that the rendition of the national anthem, whether played or sung, should be in accordance with the original musical arrangement of Julian Felipe, which follows a marching-type beat.

Violators may be imprisoned for not more than a year and fined at least P20,000. Reyma Buan-Deveza and Trina Lagura, abs-cbnNEWS.com. Video by Dennis Gaviola, abs-cbnNEWS.com

Source:
            abs-cbnNEWS

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BOXING RANTS: DUNDEE UNCOMFORTABLE WITH PACQUIAO'S RISE

By Christopher Cruz
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 29 Oct 2009

As Pacquiao-Cotto nears I can't help but be engulfed by the ridiculously massive volume of internet media coverage heaped on the fight. American mainstream media hasn't picked up on the fight the way it would a Tyson bout, but if you're a boxing fan you couldn't spend a moment going about your daily boxing fix without encountering something about the fight.

Not that anybody expects boxing to suddenly have mainstream coverage the way it enjoyed back in the days of Tyson, Leonard and Ali. Nope, it's not going to happen anytime soon.

-o-

Can anybody explain why boxing message board regulars habitually tear down every fighter's résumé? A fighter can't win with these guys. No victory is recognized as legitimate and when a fighter loses he's suddenly past prime or worse, a hype job.

I guess it's just the nature of the beast, boxing being one of the most politically incorrect of sports in these supposedly enlightened times. Boxing fans just love to see two guys beat the living daylight out of each other, and when they don't like a certain fighter there is no way in hell anybody can force them to suddenly go ga-ga over him.

-o-

Have you ever wondered how come hall-of-fame trainer Angelo Dundee has always picked the side opposite Manny Pacquiao's the last three fights running? He was hired by Oscar dela Hoya as camp adviser preparing against Pacquiao. Then he said before Pacquiao took out Hatton, "If ever there is a fighter that could beat Manny Pacquiao it is Ricky Hatton.”

Now we're hearing Dundee apparently picks Cotto over the Filipino firestorm. Dan Rafael of ESPN wrote that Bob Arum brought Dundee to Cotto's camp and Dundee once again picked against Pacquiao, "If I had to pick anybody in the world to fight Pacquiao, it would be Cotto because Cotto has the best chance of anybody to beat him because of his physical power and that strong left hook."

Is Angelo Dundee getting uncomfortable with the rising storm being generated by the Pac-Man? Well, Manny Pacquiao is still a long way from rivaling Muhammad Ali's legacy in mainstream America, but with the way he has been climbing weight classes and just tearing up the opposition comparisons with Henry Armstrong suddenly do not sound as ridiculous as they first did.

-o-

You gotta feel bad for American boxing at the moment. There is no American heavyweight in sight who looks capable of taking the belts from the Brothers Klitschko. The Super Six supermiddleweight tournament is looking like an All-European duel this early between Mikkel Kessler and Arthur Abraham. Paul Williams can't get a big fight...because Kelly Pavlik pulled out.

Bernard Hopkins and Shane Mosley are on their last legs. Floyd Mayweather Jr. would rather earn big money than build his legacy.

Well, who can blame him, actually?

-o-

This early, people are anticipating a Mayweather-Pacquiao showdown in 2010. As if Cotto losing to the Pac-Man is a foregone conclusion. Make no mistake about it, Miguel Cotto poses the biggest threat the Filipino has ever faced. Pacquiao may have faced better fighters, but no one as good AND as big as the Boricua Bomber.

Source:
          PhilBoxing
.

Pacquiao sleeps through workout

--Lance Pugmire

I tried to spend some time talking to Manny Pacquiao today at his trainer Freddie Roach's gym in Hollywood, but the world's top pound-for-pound fighter had fallen asleep after a conference call so a publicist friend kindly extended a lunch invitation.

"Better get an appetizer," chimed in another publicist on the telephone as we drove to lunch.

That was at 1:30 p.m. At 6:45 p.m., this just in: Manny's still asleep.

In a training camp that has been knocked off its routine by tax-liability issues that forced Pacquiao to train in his native Philippines for 30 days instead of spending the usual eight weeks of pre-fight activity in Hollywood, Wednesday passed without much work.

The wasted day follows other camp slips, including a fight between Pacquiao's business manager and a cornerman and Roach scolding the fighter for dismissing his scheduling directions.

Meanwhile, in footage aired on HBO's "24/7," Pacquiao's Nov. 14 foe, world welterweight champion Miguel Cotto has worked through more weeks of training, and appears more focused on the challenge at hand.

Roach, who was prepared to put Pacquiao through an intense workout after the boxer spent Wednesday morning running at UCLA, defused the significance of Wednesday's lengthy nap.

"I know he's sound asleep, and I've told the people with him to let him get the jet lag out of his system," Roach said, referring to their flight from the Philippines to Los Angeles this weekend. "A day off for a fighter sometimes is the best thing for him. I understand. I'm tired, too."

Roach discussed Pacquiao-Cotto and related matters in a video discussion I had with him today.

Source:
          Los Angeles Times
.

See also www.dantemayor.com

V8: Pacquiao/Cotto, Roach, Bradley/Peterson, and More!

HBO's Pacquiao/Cotto 24/7 series: (Far From) Reality TV!!!

HBO's recent 24/7 series on the pending Pacquiao/Cotto showdown gave the world a glimpse of a few things that some wish they probably hadn't seen. SHOWTIME's '360 Fight Camp' showed fight fans a pretty neutral image of the fighters involved, but HBO's 24/7 continues to lean towards the whole good guy versus bad guy plot. The oddity so far in the latest series is that it focused on LITERALLY EVERYTHING going wrong in the camp of Filipino Manny Pacquiao. While I do believe that the info reported was all accurate and non-scripted, HBO failed miserably to strike a balance between the two men, ultimately making the normally humble Manny Pacquiao look like a villain in the company of a man well known for his fair share of deliberate low-blows and elbows. Considering the radicals that follow Pacquiao, it'll be hard to turn their love and admiration in another direction, but with Mayweather home watching like the rest of us, I guess the writers of the show had to cast someone on the dark side, and apparently, Pacquiao's the man! Trouble is, that totally blows the concept of REALITY television, because anyone who knows him knows better. What television rating would I give the HBO series? VIEWERS DISCRETION ADVISED.

Pacquiao/Cotto: No 'Beef' In This 32oz 'Stake'

The closer November 14th draws near, the more and more Filipino Manny Pacquiao and Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto become accutely aware of how high the stakes are for a fight of this magnitude. Recently, trainer Freddie Roach informed a member of the media that Team Pacquiao is OK with the stakes being high, as long as the 'steak' (count) for Miguel Cotto is low. Translation.....Team Pacquiao is more than fine with earning an extra $1M for ever pound Cotto goes over the proposed weight of 145lbs, but under no circumstances will they go forward if the Puerto Rican crosses the line. In Roach's exact words, at 147lbs, "we'll let that fight happen"; but anything above, "I would call that fight off". So, if there are any questions, let them officially be laid to rest. This game of high stakes will all come down to Cotto's consumption (or should I say over-consumption) of his beloved steak. That being said, my message to Junito, keep the wifey in your life.....lose the steak and Pincho's!

Freddie Roach to Manny Pacquiao: The Truth Hurts....

Have you ever sat and actually listened to the things that Freddie Roach has to say? Some listen, some opt out, but if you don't, try it, and later on revisit those thoughts to see precisely how accurate they are at times. All along, Roach has disagreed with certain elements of the Pacquiao camp. We've seen a certain level of chaos following the non-adherence to each one of those request. Of all the things Roach mentioned, there's one that could reverberate quite loudly the morning after the big showdown. That statement was when he spoke to his charge about what he viewed as a lazy approach to his training on his last sparring session before leaving the Philippines en route to Los Angeles last Saturday. His words to Pacquiao was that if he does that laying on the ropes stuff against Cotto, "he'll lose". To create a change a pace and develop more chemistry, the team added new sparring partners in place of Porter and Castillo. Not quite sure if that will work, but what I do know is that if Pacquiao isn't conditioned or decides to lay on the ropes for any length of time at all, the breather he'll try to get will definitely be replaced with a set of sore ribs and perhaps even a loss. Not listening in this case for Pacquiao could yet again prove the truth hurts.....in more ways than one!

Marquez/Pacquiao: 3rd Time The Charm?

Juan Manuel Marquez has long desired a third and decisive shot at Filipino Manny Pacquiao. Like anything in life, the rugged Mexican warrior is learning that prayer changes things, and according to Freddie Roach, his wish could very well come true. Roach recently spoke about pairing the two fighters together again in March of 2010 at the jr.welterweight limit of 140lbs. Many felt that Marquez won the initial two fights, although he never got credit, with one being a draw, and the other being awarded to Pacquiao. It'll be nice to see these men settle the score, but if Marquez wins, we'd have to see a fourth fight because both men will have won one, with the third fight being a draw. Looks like these two will have their horns locked for quite some time. Although that could all change if the 'Money' is right. And you know exactly who I'm referring to.....Stay tuned.

 Bradley/Peterson: One "O" Must Go

Timothy Bradley (24-0, 11KO's) is clearly a perennial force in the jr. welterweight division, but depending on who you listen to, his reign could be a very short one. His next opponent, Lamont Peterson (27-0, 13KO's) is pretty dangerous, and has made it very clear that he isn't coming to lay down. Initially, it was believed that Bradley wanted nothing to do with the fight after a bizarre negotiating period, but the talented champ, known as 'Desert Storm', would later clarify that it only appeared that way because he didn't want the fight based on there not being any "big money involved" (clearing my throat). Whatever the case may be, these two talented jr. welterweights are set to hop in the ring December 12th, and when the headlines are printed on the morning of Sunday, December 13th, only one man will have an "O", while the others will be forced to go. Should be a great fight. Stay tuned...

Andrew Golota: Next Time, Just Listen To The Lady...

The old adage has it that 'Mothers know best', but if we can add a quick addendum, perhaps that statement should include wifes as well. After asking her husband repeatedly to put the gloves on the shelf for good, the hard-headed Golota apparently wasn't hard-headed enough, as a few flush blows to the dome sent the Polish fighter (and his career) down the drain, perhaps for good. Mariola, Golota's wife, told a local radio station that she was basically dead set against him taking the fight with Adamek, and in the end, her logic appeared to be spot on. With no more convincing left to do, it appears we've seen the last of Andrew, and despite all of the "I told you so's" he's probably hearing at home, to rub it in one more time for good measure, he'll have her to thank!

Lennox Lewis On David Haye: Small Chance Against Big Man....

Former Heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis has continued to express concerns regarding David Haye's ability to defeat the giant (literally) Nikolai Valuev. Among the reasons Lewis cited was that the size differential of "nearly a foot and 100lbs" will be a "massive amount" to overcome. And just to think, Haye stands at roughly 6'3", so where would that leave some of the heavyweights of the past? Once again, I revert to my old argument that the sport desperately needs a Super-heavyweight division. Who in their right mind will think that the average man has the same chance as Chagaev, and almost Holyfield, too, (had it not been for an unpopular decision) against a giant this size?

Winky Wright Returns...

Perhaps one of the best defensive wizards of this era will return to the ring on the evening of Friday, December 11th, in Puerto Rico. After a turbulent career that has seen many lows and several highs, Wright will attempt once again to find his place among a new era of stars. His last few outings haven't exactly been what the doctor ordered, but with the proper motivation and economics in place, it would be foolish to rule out something grand for the talented southpaw. His opponent, Alex Sanchez, isn't the biggest challenge in the world, but by the end of the night, we'll all be able to gauge the worth of Wright much better than we can now. Stay tuned.

Source:
          8 Count News Boxing

________________________

See also www.dantemayor.com

Manny Pacquiao to Be Honored, Named Gusi Peace Prize Laureate

Manny Pacquiao will be honored for his humanitarianism on Nov. 24 in Manila, when the world boxing champion will be named a 2009, Gusi Peace Prize laureate.

"I am truly humbled by this incredible honor and I would like to thank the Gusi family and the foundation," said Pacquiao, 30, whose immense popularity in his country has reached Muhammad Ali-like proportions, in a press release. "To be included in such a group of accomplished humanitarians is beyond anything I ever dreamed of. They are inspirational."

A champion in six different weight divisions, and the award's only athlete among the elite group of 19 honorees from 16 different nations, Pacquiao is also a political force in his country, where he is running for congress.

Pacquiao also has braved the tumultuous conditions created by typhoons in the Philippines, where he has broken training to help save lives by delivering food into devastated areas."The one lesson my countrymen have taught the world during the recent typhoons is never to give up. Help each other and rebuild," said Pacquiao. "Nothing is impossible when we work together -- whether it's curing the sick, feeding the hungry or nourishing the souls and minds with education."

A resident of General Santos City, in the Philippines, Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs) recently landed in Los Angeles, where he is working out at trainer Freddie Roach's Wild Card Gym in preparation for his Nov. 14 challenge for the WBO welterweight (147 pounds) title owned by Puerto Rico's Miguel Cotto (34-1, 27 knockouts).

Their fight, to be contested at a catchweight of 145 pounds, will take place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao was mobbed by American fans at the airport in Los Angeles, proving that his appeal has crossed over into U.S. soil. Pacquiao also was featured in ESPN Magazine's 'Body Issue'.

The Gusi Peace Prize was established 22 years ago by ambassador, Barry Gusi, and his wife, Dr. Evelyn Gusi.

The award is bestowed annually upon distinguished individuals or groups, worldwide, for their exemplary contributions in areas such as peace and human rights, and, representing fields of science, medicine, academics, politics, business, humanities, philanthropy, journalism, religion, international relations.

America's lone honoree is Bob Filner, who represents California's 51st congressional district.

Source:
     Boxing Fanhouse

Visit also my homepage at www.dantemayor.com

Confident Pacquiao plans Vegas concert after Cotto bout

MANILA – Fans of People’s Champ Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao in Las Vegas, Nevada are in for a treat next month.

Aside from his much anticipated bout with Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico on November 14, Pacquiao is also hosting an after-fight concert at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino for his supporters.

Pacman’s Canadian adviser Mike Koncz said the show is on regardless of the outcome of the “Firepower” showdown.

Taking center stage with Pacquiao is “Britain’s Got Talent’s” semi-finalist Madonna Decena and her “Nugroovz” band from the United Kingdom. Pacquiao is managing Decena’s singing career.

"Kung hindi maganda ang kondisyon ni Manny, I can fill in. So, kapag wala si Manny, if he doesn't feel like singing or kung ano man, ma-cut down man ang kanyang songs, at least may magfi-fill in sa kanya," Decena told abs-cbnNEWS.com in an exclusive interview.

(If his condition isn't good, I can fill in. If he isn't there, if he doesn't feel like singing or wants to cut down on the songs, at least someone will fill in for him.)

An excited Decena disclosed that the after-fight party is also an important event in terms of her career. "Mike Koncz told me that the event would be my official launch. He arranged everything...Kahit paano ay magshi-shine ako in a way," she said.

The Filipino singer said she will sample different types of music in the concert, not just ballads.

She and Pacquiao will also do several duets, including Dan Hill’s “Sometimes When We Touch.”

Pacquiao will also sing his own songs including "Lahing Pinoy" and "Para Sa Iyo."

Source:
          ABS-CBN News
.

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Pacquiao foe Cotto fired up with underdog tag

He’s the defending World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion but he’s installed as the underdog against Filipino superstar Manny Pacquiao.

Believe it or not, Boricuan bomber Miguel Cotto wouldn’t mind. On the contrary, he cherished that underdog tag for it gives him extra motivation and fire to pull the rug from under the favored Pacquiao when they lock mitts on Nov. 14 in Las Vegas.

According to his chief trainer Joe Santiago, Cotto faced a similar situation back in 2006, against compatriot Carlos "El Indio" Quintana for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight crown. Result: He shamed oddsmakers by hacking out a fifth round TKO win.

WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico Top Rank photo

“Before Miguel fought Carlos Quintana a few years ago many people were picking Quintana to win and that really motivated Miguel. The night of the fight he was so focused to prove people wrong that it really gave him a boost in the fight," Santiago was quoted by FightFan.Com as saying during a conference call Wednesday.

“We’re seeing that again with the way so many people are picking Pacquiao to win on Nov. 14. Miguel is very driven by the people saying Pacquiao will beat him. It’s extra motivation and he is coming with more fire because people are saying he can’t win," Santiago added.

Speed and power are said to be the 30-year-old Pacquiao’s main arsenal but Santiago said his ward would be able to handle them, being all fired up to put up an even better performance than he dished out against previous victims like Joshua Clottey (split decision), Sugar Shane Mosley (unanimous decision), and Zab Judah (11th round TKO).

“Cotto is at his best, and he is out to show that against Manny. It will be a very tough night for Pacquiao because winning means so much to Miguel. There is so much desire. Miguel Cotto showed a lot about his will to win in the Clottey fight. He will show this against Manny as well but you will also see his speed and power in this fight," he said.

“I think Miguel has shown people he can deal with speed in fighting Mosley and Judah. People don’t think Miguel can stay with Manny and his speed and rhythm but I think he will and it will surprise people," he added.

---

Miguel is very driven by the people saying Pacquiao will beat him. It’s extra motivation and he is coming with more fire because people are saying he can’t win.

–Joe Santiago, Miguel Cotto's trainer

---

Cotto and Pacquiao, the reigning pound for pound king, will dispute the WBO 147-lb strap at a catch weight of 145-lbs.

The 30-year-old Pacquiao is motivated by the prospect of winning an unprecedented world title in a seventh division, after being the IBO and Ring Magazine light welterweight champion, WBC lightweight boss, WBC super featherweight kingpin, Ring Magazine featherweight ruler, IBF super bantamweight titlist, and WBC flyweight holder.

But Santiago said the 28-year-old Cotto has so much more to gain in the anticipated fight dubbed as “Firepower."

“We feel Miguel is the best fighter in the world and when the night comes and he does beat Manny, everyone will see Puerto Rico has the best fighter in the world.

"Miguel has shown he’s willing to fight anyone and he’s beat them all with one exception. We feel all he has to do is beat Pacquiao and it will prove he is the best fighter in the world. A win over Pacquiao would be huge, not only for Miguel and I but for everyone in Puerto Rico," he said. - GMANews.TV

Source:
          GMANews.TV
.

Cotto unfazed by heavy underdog tag against Pacquiao

By Greg Heakes


LOS ANGELES — Heavy underdog Miguel Cotto will carry the hopes of his native Puerto Rico on his shoulders in next month's mega fight against Filipino Manny Pacquiao.

Unfazed by the long odds against him, the 27-year-old Cotto will be fighting for his place in boxing history in the 145-pound bout November 14 at the MGM Grand hotel and casino.

A win over six-time world champion Pacquiao would silence his critics and elevate Cotto to the title of best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, said trainer Joe Santiago.

"When that night comes and he wins, everyone will know that Puerto Rico does have the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world," Santiago said from Cotto's training camp at the Fight Factory Gym in Tampa, Florida.

Cotto doesn't need any more motivation than for people to say he doesn't have what it takes to beat Pacquiao.

"A lot of people are picking Pacquiao to beat him and he is motivated by that," Santiago said. "Miguel has a little extra because the people don't think he can win this fight.

"We know he can and he knows he can but he will have to show everyone what he is capable of doing against this type of opponent. He will come out with a little more fire."

Santiago says Cotto is younger, bigger, stronger and more determined. The pair are fighting at the catch weight of 145 pounds which is WBO welterweight champion Cotto's natural weight.

"Cotto is the first true welterweight that (Pacquiao) will have fought in his career. He is young and still in his prime so that is what Pacquiao is facing," Santiago said.

A classic boxer in the true sense of the word, Cotto is 34-1 with 27 knockouts. He has defeated a host of top fighters including Shane Mosley, Zab Judah and Joshua Clottey. Cotto's only loss came last year to Mexico's Antonio Margarito.

Cotto's camp believes Pacquiao's speed won't be a problem and that the Filipino is a perfect fit for three-time world champion Cotto.

"Miguel brings a lot of things that Pacquiao doesn't have," said strength trainer Phil Landman. "And we are working on improving those areas."

Said Santiago, "I think that Miguel has shown everybody that he can deal with speed. I think with the type of rhythm that Manny brings to the fight that people don't think Miguel can stay with that speed.

"I not only think he can stay with the rhythm but I think he will enjoy fighting that kind of fight. It will be an interesting fight and Miguel will come out victorious by just doing what he always does, coming forward, throwing punches and being strong."

In his last fight, Cotto gutted out a split decision victory over Clottey in June. He suffered a nasty gash over his left eye from a head butt in the third round which had to be fixed by a plastic surgeon.

"It came out very nice, I have not seen anything wrong with his cut. I don't think it will be an issue in the fight," Santiago said.

Pacquiao has been training in Manila but has also been dealing with deadly typhoons and flooding that has ravaged his country in recent weeks. He is expected to arrive in the United States this weekend.

The undercard will feature a World Boxing Association super welterweight fight between champion Daniel Santos and American challenger Yuri Foreman.

Santiago said with Santos and Cotto on the same card it will be a double pleasure for Puerto Rican boxing fans.

"On the 13th we will be at 145 pounds no question. On the 14th it is going to be a great night. And on the 15th we are going to celebrate with the country of Puerto Rico," he said.

Source:
          AFP

Dionisia off-limits at Pacman’s camp

BAGUIO CITY—Where in the world is Aling Dionisia?

Tourists in this summer capital looking for the equally famous mother of Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao can now pin her absence here on one reason: Superstition.

The reigning pound-for-pound champion said hometown superstition forbids women in their family to join him here as he trains for his Nov. 14 bout against Puerto Rican reigning World Boxing Organization welterweight champion Miguel Cotto in Las Vegas.

“Mahirap silang maglayag (It’s difficult for them to travel
),” Pacquiao said.

The ballroom-dancing Dionisia has transformed into a mainstream pop icon ever since she decided to watch her son fight for the first time in Las Vegas early this year, in Pacquiao’s two-round demolition of British sensation Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton.

She has since made several appearances on television shows, commercials and even on billboards. And it isn’t much of a surprise that fans who flock around Pacquiao have started looking for his mother.

Pacquiao said this superstition applies only to certain months of the year and September and October are among the taboo months for the women to join the men in the family.

This prohibition also includes Pacquiao’s wife, Jinkee.

The only other member of the family joining Pacquiao in Baguio is boxer Bobby Pacquiao, who joins his older brother in jogging and shadow boxing.

In fact, the Shape Up Boxing gym, where Pacquiao trains, is an all-male enclave, with only occasional women journalists and gym members spotted around.

Superstition has played a big part in Pacquiao’s career. In his 2006 fight against Erik Morales, Pacquiao was offered by his promoter, Top Rank chief Bob Arum, a private plane to take him to Las Vegas from his training grounds in Los Angeles.

Pacquiao declined, opting to travel by land in his SUV because doing so has become some sort of a prelude to some of his biggest wins.

Last year, during his Dec. 6 showdown against Oscar de La Hoya, Top Rank contracted a custom-decorated bus for Pacquiao, but the boxer opted to again use his SUV in the four-hour road trip to the Nevada gambling haven.

Pacquiao is expected to start sparring this week with the arrival of his foreign sparring partners handpicked by trainer Freddie Roach for their ability to mimic Cotto’s fighting style.

Among those boxers is American Shawn Porter, the 2007 National Golden Gloves middleweight champion.

“[Porter] fights just like Cotto,” said Roach.

“He weighs 154 lb and has the same height as Cotto,” he said. “More importantly, he has a great left hook.”

Cotto’s main arsenal is his left hook and Roach expects Porter to force Pacquiao to defend against it during their simulated bouts.

Another sparring partner is Mexican-American lightweight Urbano Antillon, who had sparred with Pacquiao when the latter prepared for the fight against Hatton.

Roach said there is also a Puerto Rican boxer joining Porter and Antillon when they report to Baguio on Sunday or Monday, weather permitting.


The Source:
          INQUIRER.NET
.

Cotto a smart boxer – Roach

By NICK GIONGCO

September 23, 2009, 4:53pm

Manny Pacquiao confers with Freddie Roach and Buboy Fernandez in his training session on Wednesday in Baguio. (Photo by NICK GIONGCO)

BAGUIO CITY – Freddie Roach admits Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto has lots in common with Briton Ricky Hatton.

Roach said both boasts of jaw-breaking left hooks, both are big and strong, ultra-aggressive and love to go to the body to soften up their foes. There is one huge difference, though, Roach believes and this one makes Cotto a far more dangerous rival than Hatton for the 30-year-old Filipino fireball. “Miguel Cotto is a lot smarter than Ricky Hatton,” said Roach, the celebrated trainer who arrived in the country on Tuesday to supervise Pacquiao’s training camp in preparation for the November 14 showdown with Cotto at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. “Cotto’s got this great left hook and he’s smart,” noted Roach. Hatton had been fancied as a true test for Pacquiao but the Filipino hardly broke out a sweat as he demolished the rugged Manchester native in less than two rounds, flattening him with a left to the jaw that remains a strong candidate for knockout of the year for 2009. Roach said if Pacquiao thinks he is in for another easy stint, he could be terribly mistaken.

“It’ll be a tough fight for us,” said Roach, who will be here for a minimum of four weeks or a maximum of six depending on Pacquiao’s progress in training and promotional schedule.

During Roach’s first session with Pacquiao at the Shape Up Boxing Gym inside the Cooyeesan Hotel, the residence of Team Pacquiao for the entire duration of training camp, the 49-year-old Boston-born cornerman immediately fell in love over the amenities available at the gym as well as its overall appearance. “Whoever built this gym did a great job,” said Roach, who owns and operates the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, California, best-known as the home of boxing’s best pound-for-pound.

Meanwhile, Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum is arriving on October 1 to check on the progress of Pacquiao’s preparation for Cotto, whose World Boxing Organization welterweight crown will be on the line in the bout aptly dubbed Firepower.

Source:
          Manila Bulletin.

Pacquiao's sparmates arriving on Sunday

Manny Pacquiao’s physical conditioning will be further put into test as two tough sparmates are set to arrive in Baguio this weekend.

Sparring for the Filipino champion starts by Tuesday as promising welterweight Shawn Porter and preferred choice Urbano Antillon are flying over here Sunday from the U.S.

Coming over from Los Angeles, the two will be immediately whisked to the country’s summer hideaway, giving them at least two days to get accustomed to Baguio City’s high-altitude weather, located some 1,500 meters above sea level.

The 30-year old Pacquiao has been in the City of Pines for almost a week now as he tries to get in the best shape of his career for a November 14 date with Miguel Cotto for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight belt.


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Through with the first week of the camp, trainer Freddie Roach believes the boxing champion is now ready for sparring.

“He’s ready to spar," said Roach after engaging Pacquiao for 10 rounds with the mitts Friday.

Antillon has been a regular Pacquiao sparmate in training camp, the last of which came when he fought Briton Ricky Hatton last summer for the International Boxing Organization (IBO) junior-welterweight title.

“Urbano is definitely the toughest sparring partner for Manny," said Roach of the Mexican lightweight now based in Maywood, California. “He gets hit a little too much, but he always comes back with his own."

Manny Pacquiao does the mitts with assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez. Dave Leprozo

The 27-year old Antillon has a ring record of 26-1, with 19 KOs, and has sparred with some of boxing’s best fighters today including Juan Manuel Marquez and Edwin Valero.

“A very good and strong fighter," Pacquiao said of Antillon after one of their sparring sessions for the Hatton fight at the Wild Card gym in Los Angeles.

Just as impressive is the unbeaten 21-year old Porter from Akron, Ohio.

Porter is a natural welterweight who holds a perfect 10-0 record, with eight KOs. He is a 2007 Golden Gloves champion and an alternate with the U.S. men’s boxing team to the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

After spending a few sparring sessions at the Wild Card gym, Roach tapped Porter as Pacquiao sparmate as he reportedly has the same built and fighting style of Cotto. – GMANews.TV

Source:
          GMA News TV
. 

Pacquiao to pay Nazario his last respects

MANILA - Before passing away, Manny Pacquiao’s former manager Rod Nazario had wished the boxing champ the best of luck in facing Puerto Rican champion Miguel Cotto. Pacquiao, who was deeply saddened by Nazario’s death, visited the boxing manager a week before his passing. “We talked about the Cotto fight,” Pacquiao told the Philippine Star. “Sabi niya sa akin ‘kaya mo yan basta gumalaw ka lang ng gumalaw. And he also reminded me not to be over-confident." Pacquiao, who has begun training in Baguio for his November 14 fight with Cotto, said he will travel to Manila to pay his final respects to Nazario. “Bababa ako,” he said.

Nazario was credited for bringing Pacquiao to the US in 2001 when the People’s Champ had his breakthrough fight with then IBF super bantamweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba. Pacquiao, who stepped into the fight as a late replacement, eventually won the title. Nazario succumbed to lung cancer Thursday morning at the Perpetual Help of Rizal Hospital in Las Piñas City. He was 74.

Closed door taining
Pacquiao trained behind closed doors on Friday as his preparations for his showdown with Cotto have shifted to high gear. For the first time since the boxing icon pitched camp in the country’s summer capital, where he would train for four to five weeks, the doors to the Shape Up Gym were closed even to Baguio-based mediamen. Pacquiao started working out in Baguio last Monday, and the following day his chief trainer, Freddie Roach, and conditioning coach, Alex Ariza, flew in from Los Angeles to supervise the preparations. Mike Koncz, the boxer’s Canadian adviser, said the doors to the gym will be opened to the media on Thursday when Pacquiao holds a media day. His promoter, Bob Arum of Top Rank, will be there on that day. Even when he trains at the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles, Pacquiao trains behind closed doors. But it was for the Ricky Hatton fight last May when stricter measures were put in place upon the orders of Roach.
Roach said he noticed that Pacquiao was “working out for the fans” and the three-time Trainer of the Year even ordered that Saturdays, normally reserved for the fans, be “off-limits” to those outside of Team Pacquiao.

Training behind closed doors gives Pacquiao and Roach more time to themselves as they begin mapping out the strategies and fightplan to be used on the ring against the wide-bodied, heavy-handed Cotto. With reports from The Philippine Star

Source:
     ABS-CBN News - Sports
.