Ring Size Does Matter

There has been a confusion lately brought about by the statements made by Miguel Cotto's chief trainer Joe Santiago claiming that Manny Pacquiao's people has requested for a 20-foot ring. He also told Pimera Hora that Pacquiao made such request to use it to their advantage saying Pacquiao needs to use a large ring to give him more space for his in and out movements. Santiago through believes their game plan can frustrate Manny's in and out movements and is confident that Cotto will be prepared for this.

On the contrary, Top Rank chief Bob Arum has denied such claim saying nobody from the Pacquiao camp has requested a larger ring. He told boxingscene that neither camp has made such request and even if Pacquiao did, he won't be able to get his request as there is a rule in the Nevada State Athletic Commission stating that every boxing match should be fought inside a 20-foot ring. An exception can be made by the NSAC Commissioner Keith Kizer but Pacquiao would not probably get it should he make a request.

Regardless if this is true or not, what does a larger ring mean to Pacquiao and Cotto? Knowing how Pacquiao outboxed and outworked Oscar dela Hoya when he moved in and out, jumped in with combinations and jumped right out before dela Hoya can throw a punch, Pacquiao will definitely benefit from a larger ring. Although Cotto is not as fast as Manny, he can move better than Dela Hoya. This might give Manny some problems. However, I do not see any problems with Manny using the 20-ft ring compared to a 24-ft ring. He was able to use it against Oscar, Hatton and everybody else. Cotto may be able to catch him at some point but Manny's footwork will be too much. The ring size will be just enough to play out whatever battle plan Pacquiao and Freddie Roach has to beat Cotto.

Cotto has the advantage if the fight is made inside a smaller ring or if Manny decides to stand in front of Cotto and trade punches. He can pressure Manny with his strength and size advantage. But Manny will not allow this, so expect him to move in and out, jump in and out, use the ring very well and dictate the tempo. Cotto will need some chasing to do in order to capitlalize on his advantages. But with Manny, that is one tough job to accomplish.

If Miguel Cotto's shot, Manny Pacquiao will let us know

For all the talk we've done here about the November 14 encounter between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto, I've done my absolute best to stay way away from the "Miguel Cotto is a changed fighter" talk, and certainly haven't touched the "Miguel Cotto is shot" talk. The former may be true in some respects, and I personally feel that the latter is foolish. I've said repeatedly that those underestimating Cotto are way too quick to count out the Puerto Rican warrior, who won a good, hard and close fight against Joshua Clottey in June.

But I will say this, as I've certainly been wrong before and undoubtedly will be again: If Miguel Cotto is a reeling fighter, then Manny Pacquiao is exactly the guy to cement that idea.

After all, Pacquiao has a pretty strong record of putting the finishing touches, so to speak, on great careers. No less than four superstar fighters have essentially been put out to pasture by the Filipino icon this decade.

The first of the four was Mexico's Erik Morales, Pacquiao's second-greatest rival and one of the most gutsy, courageous fighters of his generation. When we say someone "fights like a Mexican," Morales is exactly the type of guy who employed the style we're talking about. He had boxing skills, but he was easily drawn into firefights. In their first bout back in 2005, Morales beat Pacquiao (115-113 across the board) with a phenomenal performance. It was also the last "real" Erik Morales performance we'd ever see.

In his next fight, Morales was stunned by Zahir Raheem, losing a 12-round decision, and then he rematched Pacquiao. This time, it was the younger, stronger Pacquiao that really gut-checked Morales, eventually stopping him in the 10th round. It was a hell of a fight, just as their first bout had been, but it was clear who the better man was, too. They fought once more in November 2006, with Pacquiao completely dominating and overwhelming Morales, winning by third round TKO.

The second man was Morales' greatest rival, Marco Antonio Barrera. Pacquiao fought Barrera in 2003, coming in as a pretty heavy underdog for most, a fairly one-dimensional slugger with good speed and an awkward southpaw style. He was a one-handed fighter at the time. And that night, he tore Barrera to pieces before the Mexican's corner mercifully stopped the bout in the 11th round.

Morales fought once more, moving up to lightweight and losing a competitive scrap to David Diaz. He now intends to come back, but his relevant career is almost certainly finished.

In 2007, Pacquiao and Barrera fought again, and this time Barrera was the heavy underdog. He was coming off of a loss to Juan Manuel Marquez, a fight that was far closer than it was scored, but Pacquiao-Barrera II just never sizzled. It failed to truly captivate the interest of the fans, as the obvious true desire was for Pacquiao-Marquez II. Barrera also announced prior to the fight that it would be his last, and come fight night, he fought like a man simply there to earn one more good paycheck and not get himself embarrassed or knocked out. He lost a wide decision, fighting tentatively until swiping Pacquiao with a blatant cheap shot late in the fight.

Barrera, of course, also came back from retirement, making an ill-advised move to 135 pounds. It has not gone well, and his career, too, is now simply active instead of relevant.

Source: BadLeftHook.com

On Pacquiao, Cotto Preparations

Manny Pacquiao is still filming movies while Miguel Cotto is working out in the gym with his conditioning coach exactly two and a half months before they face each other in a mega boxing event of the year billed "Firepower" on November 14, 2009 at MGM Grand in Las vegas. Does this give Cotto an edge for being in the gym earlier than Manny? Cotto is in the gym to get in good shape and be ready for a long grind of training. Manny on the other hand, always keeps himself fit by playing basketball, being active in his other careers and sometimes working out in the gym. I'd say the two fighters are yet into real hard training.

On September 10th, the press tour which will promote the mega fight will start in the Yankee Stadium in New York with stops in Puerto Rico, San Francisco, Los angeles and Beverly Hills in California. The fighters are then expected to start hard training after the tour. Cotto will shift training camp to Florida as earlier reported while Pacquiao's camp has yet to decide where to set up its training camp. Pacquiao was advised to train outside the US owing to an IRS provision called the Substantial Presence Test which mandates non-resident aliens like Pacquiao to limit their number of stay in a three-year period. Pacquiao was discovered to have exceeded the number of days allowed. He may be taxed heavily if he decides to train for eight weeks in the US soil.

Miguel Cotto is working with new trainer Joe Santiago. Although Santiago is not new to Cotto, this will only be the second fight they will be working together with Joe as head trainer. Joe will be calling the shots, so there will be somewhat a familiarity issue. They will be against a tandem of almost a decade in Freddie Roach and Pacquiao.

As the fight draws near, the preparations and training will heat up. We will get a glimpse of it through the HBO 24/7 which is expected to premier a month before the fight.

Firepower Heats Up

The upcoming fight between Manny Paquiao and Miguel Cotto, that has brought a rivalry between the Philippines and Puerto Rico is heating up as both fighters agree that it would be a tough war. Cotto said in an interview that it is going to be a "war" contrary to what others are saying that Pacquiao will be too much for him. Pacquiao on the other hand admits that this will be his toughest fight so far in his boxing career as he will face a natural welterweight at his prime.

Prior to the fight, we have heard of so many things from both camps that are adding hype to this fight. What excites boxing fans, critics and writers is the fact that these two great fighters represent two countries. Both have huge followings in their mother countries. There is no Filipno who doesn't know Manny Pacquiao. Miguel Cotto is a celebrity in Puerto Rico and he can bring in 20,000 boxing fans whenever he fights in New York.

This fight will not only be a battle between two great warriors but a rivalry between Philippines and Puerto Rico. As the fight draws near, expect more heat and hype that will not only fire up both Pacquiao and Cotto but also the boxing world bannered by two countries from opposite sides of the world.

What makes Pacquiao/Cotto the fight of the year?

The upcoming fight between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto on November 14 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas is considered by many as the most important and anticipated fight of the year. Despite the comeback fight of former best pound for pound fighter Floyd Mayweather against Juan Manuel Marquez, The Pacquiao/Cotto matchup is what excites most boxing fans, writers and critics. This has the potential to be the fight of the year.

Pacquiao is coming off a demolition job of Britain's Ricky Hatton. Only needing two rounds, Pacquiao proved the boxing world that his win over Oscar dela Hoya is not a fluke in terms of beating a naturally bigger guy by knocking down Hatton in the first round and finally knocking him out cold in the second. We all know Manny was far superior than David Diaz when he first moved up from Super Featherweight to Lightweight. But the way he dominated Diaz solidified Pacquiao's Ring Magazine's ranking as top pound for pound fighter after Mayweather announced his temporary retirement. He then moved up two weight classes (from lightweight to welterweight) to face the now retired Golden Boy of boxing, Oscar dela Hoya. Most experts thought the fight was a circus. How could a guy who used to fight at 106 lbs, face a guy who fought as high as 158 lbs? This question was answered by Manny in 8 rounds, making dela Hoya quit from his stool. Despite Manny's win against Oscar, many still doubt if he can really take on a bigger guy since they believe Oscar was a dead man walking when he fought Manny. Manny faced another bigger guy in Hatton and destroyed him in two rounds. Did the doubtfuls finally give Manny credit for that? No. They are now saying Hatton is overrated and has poor defense. I do think that Manny does not need to prove himself to these people but because of his warrior thinking, he is again pitted to a naturally bigger and stronger guy in Miguel Cotto. I wonder what these doubtfuls would say should Manny beat Cotto convincingly.

On the otherhand, Miguel Cotto has his part in making the Pacquiao/Cotto fight something to watch out for. He was once the most feared welterweight until he suffered a bad beating at the hands of Antonio Margarito. Margarito is suspended in the US for attempting to use illegal wraps in his fight with Sugar Shane Mosley early this year. Many thinks Margarito used this dirty tactic to beat Cotto. That is something we can not take away from people's minds. Maybe a rematch would settle the issue. But the issue right now is whether Cotto was greatly affected by that loss. According to experts, Cotto has lost his usual form, and became too cautious during fights which make his last two victories disappointing. In his last fight, he barely won against Joshua Clottey. Some believe it could have gone either way. But Cotto fought for 9 rounds with a deep cut to his left eyebrow. Also, Clottey is a great champion who has fought and beaten quality opponents so Cotto should be given credit for that.

On November 14th, these two fighters (Pacquiao and Cotto) will meet in the ring not to prove the critics their worth. These are two great warriors who are fighting for their countrymen and for their pride. Manny is not fighting Cotto because of financial problems and definitely Cotto is not fighting Manny because he can not get a rematch with Margarito. I hope you get what I meant.

Is Cotto underestimating Pacquiao?

Miguel Cotto is not known for being very vocal before a fight. However, he has been very outspoken lately about his fight with Manny Pacquiao on November 14, 2009 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. In previous interviews, he has expressed his confidence that he will beat the best pound for pound fighter. He believes that on November 14th, Puerto Rico will celebrate another victory.

Cotto is the bigger and stronger fighter but Manny is on top of his game having proven that he can beat bigger guys. Experts and critics believe this will be an exciting fight although some think Pacquiao will be too much for Cotto while some predict Cotto will use his size and strength and beat Pacquiao. But what does Cotto think about this fight? Is he underestimating Pacquiao?

In a recent interview with Manila Bulletin, Cotto showed confidence that he can beat Pacquiao and that he is not impressed with his recent victories.

"Pacquiao lost to Erik Morales in their first fight, had a draw against Juan Manuel Marquez and then a razor thin victory in the rematch. Pacquiao faced a very tired and aged Oscar De La Hoya, then Ricky Hatton, an overrated fighter. Against me the story will be different. It will be a war," said Cotto.

"His weaknesses are obvious to me. Hard training as always has been the key to my victories," Cotto added.

Cotto might only be conditioning his mind that Pacquiao is beatable which will motivate him to train harder. If he is underestimating the little fella from the Philippines, he may end up like De La Hoya and Hatton.

Can Pacquiao send Cotto to retirement?

Many experts believe Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico will be the toughest test for Manny Pacquiao in his incredible boxing career. Proven that not only he can beat naturally bigger guys, but he can also send them to retirement. We all know Oscar dela Hoya has announced his retirement a couple of months after he was demolished by Pacquiao. Ricky Hatton, after being destroyed by Manny in just two rounds, has been thinking of hanging up his gloves and focusing on promoting. Can Pacquiao do the same to Cotto?

While many boxing writers, fans and experts think Manny will be too much, Cotto is not leaving boxing win or lose. He just signed a new contract with Top Rank for another two years. That means he will still have five to six fights with Bob Arum. Although he has expressed his plan of not staying in the boxing ring for long, Cotto will definitely be a big impact to boxing in the coming years.

Should Cotto lose to Pacquiao, I don't think that is a reason to hang up gloves. He is still young and is competitive. Losing to the best fighter in the world would mean less than losing to a regular fighter. He can still bounce back, possibly a match against Andre Berto, another big test against former pound for pound king Floyd Mayweather, a rematch with Sugar Shane Mosley to put away doubts that he really won their fight or avenge his lone defeat to Antonio Margarito.

Should Cotto upset Manny, he will definitely be a hot target by many great fighters. Beating a guy who defeated Manny Pacquiao is something.

We will find out on November 14th where Cotto's career is headed.

Pacquiao not invincible – Cotto

In the eyes of Miguel Cotto, Manny Pacquiao is not Superman but just like Clark Kent.

“His weaknesses are obvious to me,” Cotto told the Bulletin in an interview that was made possible by his adviser, topnotch lawyer Gabriel Penagaricano.

While Cotto acknowledges that the Filipino pound-for-pound king “is a good fighter,” it doesn’t follow that Pacquiao is invincible.

“(Pacquiao) lost to (Erik) Morales in their first fight, had a draw against (Juan Manuel) Marquez and then a razor-thin victory in the rematch. Pacquiao faced a very tired and aged (Oscar) De La Hoya. Then Ricky Hatton, an overrated fighter,” said Cotto, who is in the thick of training in Puerto Rico for the much-awaited November 14 duel at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“Against me, the story will be different. It will be a war,” vowed the 28-year-old Cotto, who is a 2-1 underdog according to odds makers.

Cotto is currently in the fourth week of training under taskmaster Joe Santiago and the arrival of South African conditioning coach Phil Landman from Los Angeles will push Cotto even further in his daily workouts that will kick off with a 5 a.m. roadwork and followed by a 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. gym session.

Landman was amazed with the condition of Cotto when he first reported for work on Monday, stressing that the fighter had followed the advice he gave him following the June 13 victory over Joshua Clottey.

Cotto will continue to train in Puerto Rico in the coming weeks and will try to keep in shape even while on a four-city press tour with Pacquiao beginning September 10 in New York. Other stops of the Top Rank traveling circus would be Caguas in Puerto Rico, San Francisco, and finally, Los Angeles.

Cotto will transfer his training camp to Tampa, Florida on September 19.

Told about the key to victory against Pacquiao, Cotto was direct to the point.

“Hard training as always has been the key to my victories.”

His message to Pacquiao as well as his supporters all over the world was loud and clear.

“I will only say that in November 14th I will step into the ring as always in excellent condition, and will win the fight for the glory of Puerto Rico,” said Cotto.

Source: Mb.com.ph

Does Cotto have enough time for cut to heal?

Miguel Cotto sustained a deep cut to his left eyebrow in his last fight with tough former champion Joshua Clottey more than 2 months ago. However, some experts suspect Cotto may not have enough time for his cut to completely heal prior to his mega fight with pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao. Arthur Mercante Jr., a well known boxing referee who worked the Cotto/Clottey fight is one of those who think Cotto has taken a fight with Manny too early after suffering such cut.

"Cotto is a tough kid but I think he is taking this fight too soon after the bad cut suffered from the Clottey fight. That fight was mid July and I just don’t know if Cotto’s cut has had time to heal. Pacquiao is very fast and accurate with his punches I just believe that Cotto has not had enough time to heal from the Clottely fight" Mercante told David Tyler of DogHouseBoxing.com.

Facing Manny Pacquiao who is a very effective puncher and a sharpshooter, just a few months after sustaining a deep cut, may pose problems for Cotto during the fight since there is a tendency such cut might reopen. If Cotto's defense allow Manny to effectively hit Cotto's face with regularity, we might see a TKO by Manny. But, if Cotto shows an improved defense and boxing skills, he may give Manny one hell of a fight.

Latest Ring Ratings - Pound for Pound

Majority of the boxing fans, writers and critics believe the Ring Magazine Rankings/Ratings is the most credible source of boxers' rankings or ratings pound for pound and per weight division.

The pound for pound rankings show interesting signs for boxing as two scheduled mega fights this year involve the current pound for pound no.1, no. 2, no, 8 and a former no. 1

Floyd Mayweather who was the top pound for pound more than one year ago is scheduled to fight current no. 2 Juan Manuel Marquez on September 19, 2009. Interestingly, these two fighters are meeting at a catchweight as Mayweather is a welterweight whereas Marquez has last fought as a lightweight. But, their being top pound for pound contenders makes it an exciting match and something to watch out for.

Current top pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao will go against no. 8 Miguel Cotto on November 14, 2009. Considered by many as the most anticipated fight of the year, Manny Pacquiao is looking to get his 7th world title in as many divisions. Cotto is a natural welterweight while Manny's heaviest was 142 lbs when he fought Oscar dela Hoya in a welterweight match last December 2008. Proven that he can beat bigger guys, Pacquiao is the favorite to win despite the size advantage Cotto has.

Pound For Pound

All Weights

• 
  

• 1. Manny Pacquiao

  

  Country: Philippines

  Record: 49-3-2 (37 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #1 | Last Week: #1 | Weeks On List: 299

  Titles: The Ring

• 2. Juan Manuel Marquez

  

  Country: Mexico

  Record: 50-4-1 (37 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #2 | Last Week: #2 | Weeks On List: 128

  Titles: WBA, WBO, The Ring

• 3. Bernard Hopkins

  

  Country: USA (Philadelphia, Pa.)

  Record: 49-5-1 (32 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #3 | Last Week: #3 | Weeks On List: 168

• 4. Shane Mosley

  

  Country: USA (Las Vegas, Nevada)

  Record: 46-5-0 (39 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #4 | Last Week: #4 | Weeks On List: 1

  Titles: WBA

• 5. Israel Vazquez

  

  Country: Mexico

  Record: 43-4-0 (31 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #5 | Last Week: #5 | Weeks On List: 108

• 6. Rafael Marquez

  

  Country: Mexico

  Record: 38-5-0 (34 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #6 | Last Week: #6 | Weeks On List: 66

• 7. Nonito Donaire

  

  Country: USA (San Leandro, Calif.)

  Record: 22-1-0 (14 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #7 | Last Week: #7 | Weeks On List: 17

  Titles: IBF

• 8. Miguel Cotto

  

  Country: Puerto Rico

  Record: 34-1-0 (27 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #8 | Last Week: #8 | Weeks On List: 17

  Titles: WBO

• 9. Celestino Caballero

  

  Country: Panama

  Record: 32-2-0 (22 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #9 | Last Week: #9 | Weeks On List: 31

  Titles: IBF, WBA

• 10. Paul Williams

  

  Country: USA (Augusta, Ga.)

  Record: 37-1-0 (27 KOs)

  Ranking: This Week: #10 | Last Week: #10 | Weeks On List: 7

Ratings Source: Ring Magazine

Floyd Mayweathr Sr on Pacquiao vs Cotto

"I think Pacquiao is too much for Cotto right now but my thing is if Cotto can hit hard to the body and to the head, he can knock Pacquiao out."

Some people find it odd that Cotto is being considered by some boxing experts damaged goods. Mayweather Sr, is one of those people who believe Manny Pacquiao is too much for Cotto. Although, he mentioned that if Cotto can hit Pacquiao, he can knock him out.

FLoyd, Sr.knows Manny very well after he had studied the Pacman during his preparations and trainings with Ricky Hatton. Unfortunately, he couldn't find an answer to the Pacquiao puzzle.

To read more about Mayweather's interview, click here.

Revisiting Hatton-Pacquiao: What can Cotto do?

It's been nearly four months now since Manny Pacquiao ended what was then going to be the biggest fight of 2009 in less than six minutes of action. And no matter how many times I watch the video of the fight, I never cease to be amazed by how easy Manny made it look.

That night, the Filipino living legend not only outquicked and outboxed Manchester's favorite son, but he did so in a brutal fashion that left no questions whatsoever. Five months earlier, Pacquiao had stunned the boxing world by beating Oscar de la Hoya so thoroughly that "The Golden Boy" quit on his stool after eight rounds of action, so hopelessly out of the contest that there was no need to go on.

Oscar couldn't touch Pacquiao that night. Hatton never really got a chance to even try.

Oscar de la Hoya retired after what Manny Pacquiao did to him. It remains to be seen whether or not Ricky Hatton will fight again.

What we do know, though, is that both were fights that Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach, quickly agreed to. In fact, the win over Oscar was barely in the books before talk of Pacquiao and Hatton on May 2, 2009 began. After some rough patches in the negotiation process, that fight came off, and now it's history.

Freddie took the Oscar fight when people said it was crazy because he saw that Oscar de la Hoya couldn't pull the trigger anymore, and I think he also knew from training Oscar that there was no way that de la Hoya was going to comfortably make 147 pounds.

Freddie took the fight with Hatton because he saw a vulnerable, limited fighter -- a very good fighter, good at what he does, yes, but so tailor made for Pacquiao that Roach knew Hatton had no chance to beat his guy.

But what about Miguel Cotto? Roach has backed off from the idea of fighting a pre-disgraced Antonio Margarito, because he plainly said, "Margarito is too big." He wanted Shane Mosley to boil down to 143 pounds. And he's made Cotto come down to 145.

Why is that?

Source: Badlefthook.com

Edwin Valero should be on Firepower card

The mega fight between pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines and Boricuan fighter Miguel Cotto is set on November 14, 2009 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas with tickets to the venue reportedly almost sold out. The press tour has been scheduled early next month and it is expected that the fighters will go full blast in its training camp right after the tour.

However, the list of undercards have yet to be finalized and made known to public. Although some possible match-ups have been brought up in previous articles, I have never heard of a match-up that would excite me as a boxing enthusiast. Although the Daniel Santos versus Yuri Foreman fight looks to be a good one, there is still something that boxing fans like me is looking for. Something that has a connection to the main event. Say Edwin Valero (should he be licensed by the NSAC before November 14th) vs Humberto Soto or any of the top lightweights.

Valero has been chasing the Pacman for years and although many experts believe it was too early to pit a Valero to a fighter in Manny's level. While it is true that Valero has knocked out all of his opponents, I couldn't be blamed for discrediting him for his lack of quality opponents under his resume. Should he have fought Pacquiao two to three years ago, he might not have a career as successful as it is right now. Valero is now considered to be one of the top lightweights and could possibly be a threat in the super lightweight division. It is now his time to fight as an undercard to Manny's big show. Who knows? Manny might be impressed and that may give him the go signal to his promoter to grant Valero what he has been wishing for all these years.

Of course, there's a small chance a Valero fight wil be in Manny's eyesight. Money and legacy wise, there are other great fights awaiting Manny. Sugar Shane Mosley, Floyd Mayweather, Juan Manuel Marquez and even Antonio Margarito are mega money fights compared to an Edwin Valero. Boxing fans could only wish for it to happen, but realistically, that is not going to happen.

To read more about a proposed Valero vs Soto fight, click here.

Cotto looks strong, happy and very motivated says conditioning coach

Miguel Cotto's Physical Trainer, Phil Landman who recently arrived in Puerto Rico, has seen the famous boxer's condition and his workrate in the gym and is very pleased with what he has seen so far.

"Miguel looks stong, happy and very motivated" Landman told Primera Hora. He believes Cotto is in better mental state of mind than in his previous fights. He also thinks Cotto is taking his fight with current top pound-for-pound fighter Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines very seriously.

"Mentally, Miguel looks ready for the long work that awaits him", added Landman.

The training camp will last 11 months which Cotto's camp believes is enough for Miguel to be at his best shape ever come fight night.

For more about this story, click here.

Pacquiao Ex Trainer: Cotto is Dangerous

An unfamiliar name to most Manny Pacquiao fans, Rick Staheli, Pacquiao's trainer when he knocked out and dethroned Thailand's then superstar in boxing, Chatchai Sasakul in December 1998 warned Pacman that Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto is a "dangerous opponent".

Despite Cotto being a dangerous opponent, Staheli still believes Manny's superior skills and speed will prevail and he expects a Pacquiao victory for his 7th world title in as many divisions. According also to Staheli, Cotto might need to stalk Pacquiao and try to knock him out to win the fight as Pacquiao will use his boxing prowess, hand speed and foot work.

He also thinks Freddie Roach's game plan for Manny not to get hit is an indication that Roach respects Cotto's power.

For more of Staheli's interview, click here.

Pacquiao victim predicts a win for Manny

Former world lightweight champion David Diaz, who was outworked and knocked out by Manny Pacquiao last year has predicted a decision win for Manny in his super mega fight with Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico on November 14, 2009 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Having fought Pacquiao in 9 punishing rounds, Diaz knows very well what a Manny Pacquiao can do inside the ring notwithstanding the physical advantage of his opponent. Diaz was the bigger man as Pacquiao was only debuting in the lightweight division while Diaz has even fought at 140 lbs sometime in his career. On November 14th, Pacquiao will be fighting at welteweight, his second in his career, against Cotto who is a natural welterweight.

Despite the size advantage some people thought Diaz would use, Manny was obviously too fast and as strong if not stronger than Diaz that night. Diaz even joked in the post-fight interview that Manny was too fast that he thought Freddie Roach was in the ring hitting him too.

To read more about David Diaz's prediction, click here.

Pacquiao eager to win WBO, WBC belts vs Cotto

Manny Pacquiao drools at the prospect of winning not just one but two world titles if he beats Puerto Rican bomber Miguel Cotto in their “Firepower" showdown on Nov. 14 in Las Vegas.

Cotto’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title would be on the line in the bout set at a catchweight of 145-lbs (two lbs under the regular welterweight limit) and to make the stakes even higher, the World Boxing Council announced it would stake the new WBC Diamond Belt, too.

The twin titles would help Pacquiao realize his goal to win an unprecedented world crown in a seventh weight division after conquests at flyweight (WBC), super-bantamweight (International Boxing Federation), featherweight (Ring Magazine), super-featherweight (WBC), lightweight (WBC), and light welterweight (International Boxing Organization and Ring Magazine).

“Dahil ang WBC ay isa sa pinaka-prestihiyosong world governing boxing body gaya ng WBO, isang malaking pagkakataon ito upang makamit nating lahat muli ang isa sa mga pinakamadalang at pinakamataas na parangal sa sport na ito," Pacquiao wrote in his Kumbinasyon column for Abante on Sunday.

“Kung tayo ay papalarin, ito na ang ikapitong titulo sa ikapitong weight class, at malalampasan na natin ang record ni Oscar Dela Hoya na may anim," the “Pacman" added.

De La Hoya, whom Pacquiao stunned via a nine-round TKO last December 2008, had won titles at super featherweight, lightweight, light welterweight, welterweight, junior middleweight, and middleweight.

According to WBC president Jose Sulaiman, the WBC Diamond belt was created as an “honorary championship exclusively for fights between elite fighters such as Pacquiao and Cotto." The belt is handcrafted by an artisan in Mexico City with 18 carat gold fusion and has about 800 diamonds, emeralds and rubies, as well as 150 Swarovsky semiprecious stones.

“Kung papalarin mang maging kampeon ng WBO at WBC, isusuot ko ang korona at ang mga sinturon at bibigyan ng pagpapahalaga ang mga ito gaya ng ibang mga sinturon na aking nakamit sa loob ng aking career," Pacquiao, the reigning pound-for-pound king, promised.

Pacquiao is currently completing his non-boxing commitments, including his movie Wapakman and new sitcom for GMA Network, Show Me Da Manny, before getting down to serious business at the gym by next month.

Source: GMANews.tv

Cotto to use ‘good defense’ against Pacquiao

FILIPINO Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao’s vaunted speed is the only thing that worries him, according to world welterweight champion Miguel Cotto when defends his title against the Filipino pound-for-pound king on November 14.

But Cotto said “good defense” would be his answer to Pacquiao’s speed, indicating he would use the ring and his boxing skills in his coming mega fight at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas.

“Pacquiao has to fight another welterweight, if he wants a seventh title,” Cotto said in an interview with Puerto Rican daily Primera Hora.

The Puerto Rican puncher-boxer declined to predict the outcome of the title fight, but his father-trainer Miguel Sr. confidently forecasted that Pacquiao would go down once his son connects “with the right punches.”

Cotto, 27, started training in the first week of August in preparation for a long fight against a fellow puncher-boxer like Pacquiao.

For the first time Cotto confirmed that his World Boxing Organization welterweight belt would be on the line at the 145 pound agreed weight, an agreement forged only last week.

Cotto said he was offered “additional guarantees and benefits” to defend his title. He earlier insisted that he would only risk his belt if the fight were held at the regular welterweight standard of 147 pounds.

While showing tremendous respect for Pacquiao, Cotto said he does not think Pacquiao could overcome his physical advantage and strength, which he added would be the key to his victory.

Filipino ring physician Allan Recto of Laredo, Texas said the slick Puerto Rican flyweight champion Ivan Calderon has offered to spar with Cotto to help hone his compatriot’s defense against the fast-fisted Pacquiao.

“I am also a fast southpaw just like Manny Pacquiao,” said Calderon, who has a rematch with Filipino challenger Rodel Mayol on September 12 in San Juan, Puerto. “We are just entertaining that as a possibility, nothing’s definite yet.”

Pacquiao and Cotto, who are scheduled to hold a press conference in San Juan, are expected to be at ringside during the September 12 fight, a logical sequel to the recent Calderon-Mayol title fight that ended in a technical draw due to an accidental headbutt.

Asked for his prediction on Pacquiao-Cotto, Calderon said: “It’s going to be a hard fight for both but I think Cotto will win. It will be Miguel Cotto. He still got the energy, he’s young, he has the spirit, and his boxing skills are better. Cotto has the heart of a true champion.

Source: Manilatimes.net

What happens to the WBC Diamond belt?

The WBC Diamond belt, a title created for mega fights made at catchweights has created noise within the boxing world. Some people like this idea by the WBC as they agree with the sanctioning body that some fights made at catchweights deserve a title at stake, and that is what the diamond belt is for.

However, it is not yet clear to most boxing fans what will happen to this belt after its sanctioned fight. Obviously, it will be held by the winner. How will it be defended and contested by other fighters wanting to hold such title? Is this a one time belt that whoever gets it, will have it for the rest of his life?

For the sake of argument, do you think this belt gives more excitement to boxing or will just add chaos and complication? Will there be more diamond belts after this first? Or will they need to beat Manny to ever hold such title? These questions will be answered and will be clear to boxing fans eventually.

Teddy Atlas P4P List: Pacquiao 3rd, Cotto last.

Teddy Atlas, a respected boxing trainer and TV personality has been a regular target of boxing writers as source for predictions or pre-fight analysis. Recently, he has has given his thoughts on the super mega fight between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto saying Pacquiao will beat Cotto within 3-5 rounds. According to him, Pacquiao will be too much because Cotto is damaged goods and will be haunted by Margarito sting everytime he fights.

Atlas, though is not considering Manny Pacquiao as the best in the sport today. He believes Floyd Mayweather is still on top since he really never left the sport. Juan Manuel Marquez is in his list at second spot for its recent achievements and victories over very quality opponents. Third on his list is Pacquiao. When asked if Cotto is in his list, Atlas simply answered, "I would put him at the very bottom."

Although Atlas has been in the sport for a while now, you will find contrasting views on the P4P list as most experts see Manny Pacquiao as the legitimate number one. Come November 14th, I wouldn't be surprised if Atlas still doesn't give credit to Pacquiao because Cotto according to him is damaged goods. When can Atlas consider Pacquiao as number one?

To read more about his interview, click here.

On using Manny Pacquiao's name

Many fighters not only in boxing, but also in MMA have the responsibility to take part in the promotion of their upcoming fights. Aside from their appearances on press tours and conferences, it has been a regularity to use someone else's name to help sell the fight. One good example which has been very obvious lately is dragging Manny Pacquiao's name by fighters who are either former pound for pound best or wanting to be.

Floyd Mayweather, Roy Jones, Jr, Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi, Timothy Bradley, Nate Campbell among others have made comments on Manny Pacquiao which created buss within the boxing world. Some are still claiming they're on top of this sport, and some believe Pacquiao is not the best in the 140 division. Some use trash talking too. Of course, it helps sell the fight. The more the public hears about a fighter talking about Manny Pacquiao, who is regarded as the best fighter pound for pound, the more ticket or ppv sales.

Is this a sign that the sport of boxing really is on the decline that it needs to do such thing to sell the fight? As a boxing fan, I'd rather see them do the talking in the ring as Manny Pacquiao did to earn his spot as the most exciting fighter and boxing's cash cow.

Early odds: Pacquiao 2-1 favorite over Cotto

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Manny Pacquiao is at least a 2-1 favorite to win over world welterweight champion Miguel Cotto with less than three months left to their Nov. 14 megafight, according to Las Vegas and other international online oddsmakers.

Based on early betting lines, Bodog Sportsbook lists Pacquiao a minus 265 favorite, which means one needs to bet $265 to win $100. Conversely, a $100 bet on Cotto wins a little more than double at $205.

Early odds offered by Book­maker.com are slightly better for Pacquiao fans. A $245 investment on Pacquiao wins $100, while a $100 wager on Cotto nets $195.

The odds in favor of Pacquiao, the reigning pound-for-pound king, are almost the same in UK online betting sites. Bookmakers Skybet, PaddyPower and ToteSport listed Pacquiao a 2-1 favorite.

The odds could change as the fight gets closer, but the betting odds usually get stiffer for those betting on the favored fighter, in this case Pacquiao.

For instance, the betting lines started at minus 180 soon after the fight was announced, meaning betting that amount of dollars wins $100. As of August 20, the odds have changed to minus 190, which means a $190 bet on the Filipino icon nets $100.

As underdog, a $100 wager on Cotto wins $220 when betting lines opened at MGM Grand; now, a $100 bet on the Puerto Rican World Boxing Organization welterweight champ fetches $240.

However, Pacquiao cautions betting persons not to put too much attention on the odds, stressing that when two conditioned fighters square off in the ring anything can happen.

Speaking of conditioning, Cotto started training early for this fight, reporting to the Abner “Pin” Cotto Gym in Aguas Buenas in the first week of August.

“It’s never too early to start training, especially when fighting a boxer with Pacquiao’s caliber,” reported Puerto Rican daily Primera Hora.

Cotto’s Chief trainer Joe Santiago said Cotto will start with a thrice weekly training regimen, gradually building that up to optimize results

Pacquiao, meanwhile, is trying to finish commitments in the Philip­pines, mostly filming his television series “Totoy Bato” and a comedy movie with Philippine Olympic silver medalist Onyok Velasco, basketball star Benjie Paras and comedian Long Mejia.

Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach said he wants his prized boxer to spend at least eight weeks in trai­ning camp, which he expects to start after completing the fight’s promotional tour.

As suggested by his trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao may start his training in Baguio City.

Despite his many non-boxing commitments, Pacquiao stressed that he is not taking Cotto lightly. Pacquiao said he considers Cotto his toughest fight.

Source: Manilatimes.net

A Close Look at Cotto's Conditioning

Miguel Cotto is obviously showing respect to his opponent, the pound for pound best fighter in the world, Manny Pacquiao. This early, he has formed his team that will be in-charge with his training and conditioning that will take 10 to 12 weeks. A recent addition to his team was Phil Landman, as reported a couple of days ago. According to Landman, Cotto should be in its best condition when he faces Pacquiao on November 14th at MGM Grand in Las Vegas. He believes Cotto would easily make 145 lbs as he has made 146 lbs easily in previous fights. Would this cause Pacquiao team to change game plan or do they realize the statement made by Landman was all part of the psychological battle? Pacquiao doesn't seem to be bothered by this development in Cotto's camp as he is still finishing his other commitments without showing any rush with regards to his training program. He believes his 8-week training period which he usually spends with Freddie Roach before a fight is enough make him at his best shape.

To read the whole interview with Phil Landman, click here.

Cotto: "Pacquiao Will Be Another Win for Puerto Rico"

For the first time, Miguel Cotto revealed that his WBO welterweight title will be on the line when he meets Manny Pacquiao on November 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Previously, everyone but Cotto would confirm that the welterweight would be at stake at the catch-weight of 145-pounds. Cotto plans to use his physical size and strenght advantage in the fight to exploit Pacquiao.

"We reached a deal last week. The WBO title will be at stake. They offered us additional guarantees and benefits (to defend the title). Every since the fight was signed, I have the mindset of victory. After the [Pacquiao fight], we will see what is out there. I do not believe that Pacquiao who is physical enough to make it a fight [at welterweight]. I have that advantage over him and that will carry me to victory," Cotto told Primera Hora.

Cotto says that his only concern is Pacquiao's speed. He plans to counter the quick hands of Pacquiao with a good defense. He says the Filipino fighter may have to find someone else at 147 to capture a seventh title.

"The only thing I have to take care of is his speed. By using a good defense, we can counteract it. If he wants a world title, he will have to find someone [to beat] at 147. On November 14, it's going to be a great fight and another win for Puerto Rico," Cotto said.

Source: Boxingscene.com

Countdown to Pacquiao vs Cotto Firepower

Source: MiguelCottoForum

Paulie Malignaggi: Cotto will beat Manny

A familiar name who is scheduled to fight this weekend has recently gave his thoughts on the most anticipated fight of the year, Manny Pacquiao vs Miguel Cotto. Paulie Malignaggi, whose last opponent was Ricky Hatton, who Pacquiao destroyed in just 2 punishing rounds, is saying that Cotto will beat Manny Pacquiao. Does he want a piece of Mega Manny Sweepstakes reason why he is giving such thoughts? Didn't he predict Oscar dela Hoya to destroy Manny last year? Didn't he say Ricky Hatton would be too big and strong for Manny? What made Paulie give such comment when Cotto even had a hard time with himself? I think Paulie looked bad when Manny destroyed Ricky Hatton, a fighter who made his corner throw the towel. Now, Manny has another chance of making Paulie look bad by defeating a guy (Cotto) who beat the NY-based fighter. If Juan Diaz wins on Saturday and ends up fighting the Pacman, I think Paulie will again say, Diaz will beat Manny.

To check out the interview, click here.

Pacquiao/Cotto, Mayweather/Marquez to get instant replay

The Nevada State Athletic Commission voted unanimously on Wednesday to bring instant replay to one of the only major sports in America without it. This move is one that critics around the sport have wanted for quite some time, as it adds clarity and transparency to a sport that has displayed very little over the course of times.

A number of fights in recent history has shown us exactly why this move is a great one, and with a Fall lineup that appears to be slated with one mega fight after the next, the time couldn't be more appropriate.

When you look back to the recent fight between Nate Campbell and Timothy Bradley, it was clear that a headbutt caused the nasty gash Campbell suffered, and subsequently ended the fight, yet there was no integrity on behalf of the referee who officiated, and as a result, a warrior in the sport who has received less than his fair share of opportunities has to now deal with a TKO on his record that will reduce that level of participation even more.

The first fightcard to feature this new addition to the sport is the well anticipated card featuring the Floyd Mayweather Jr. - Juan Manuel Marquez showdown, which is set to take place on September 19th. Beyond that, there are a number of other showdowns slated to have it as well, with the most notable being the Cotto/Pacquiao showdown.

Neither Cotto or Pacquiao have a history of headbutts but this would gaurantee an outcome with firm integrity if such a thing happens, taking away the odds of having yet another mega fight end up in a stirring controversy.

Referees will have sole discretion to use the feature as necessary, so if one decides not to use it when foul play was obvious, it leaves blame for one person and one person only.

Should be interesting, and it's great to see this first step in bringing some well needed integrity to the sport.

Lets just hope isn't the final step.

Source: Examiner.com

Known Trainer Speaks: Pacquiao beats Cotto, Mayweather beats Manny

FLOYD VS. MANNY: “Without a doubt, that fight will happen. Pacman’s speed is too much for Miguel Cotto. He can outpoint Cotto just on speed. You can’t beat Manny throwing one jab at a time because he comes right over the top on you. It would take the Mayweather style to beat Manny. Floyd is a full fledged welterweight, he’s just too big for Manny. He will beat Pacquiao. (Source: Examiner.com)

These words came from known boxing trainer Eddie Mustafa Muhammad (trainer of Chad Dawson) during a conversation between him and popular boxing examiner Michael Marley.

Interestingly, Freddie Roach, who is considered by most experts to be the best trainer at present time, has the opposite thoughts as he believes Floyd would be the easiest fight for Manny. People would tend to go with Roach's side especially after his very accurate predictions on Manny's fights.

Lately, a few boxing trainers such as Floyd Mayweather Sr, Emanuel Steward, Roger Mayweather and Teddy Atlas have made comments on Pacquiao vs Cotto fight that have added hype to the fight.

To read more about the interview with Muhammad, click here.

Mayweather/Marquez vs. Pacquiao/Cotto Could Be the Fight of 2009

Though it’s been an interesting year in boxing to this point, by far the most important fight of the year – Manny Pacquiao vs. Ricky Hatton – was a mismatch, consequential only because of the stunning way in which Pacquiao won, a savage knockout that created a crossover buzz around the mighty Filipino and solidified his stature as an international superstar.

As far as the Fight of the Year in 2009 goes right now, my choice is the Juan Manuel Marquez/Juan Diaz lightweight title fight from back in February. That was a thrilling contest, no doubt, with the smaller Marquez dominated early before solving (and cutting) Diaz in the middle rounds and ultimately earning a hard-fought stoppage in the ninth.

Still, compared to the heroic FOY’s of recent vintage – the Israel Vazquez/Rafael Marquez fights, Pavlik/Taylor I, Corrales/Castillo I – Marquez/Diaz seems just a little thin in both content and narrative to be remembered as the definitive fight of 2009.

Of course, there are two gigantic fights looming on the fall schedule, each with narrative out the proverbial wazoo. The oddsmakers will tell you that neither of these bouts will prove FOY material once they hit the ring, and though I’m not entirely sold on that opinion, I at least can see where it’s coming from. In any case, recent news has me thinking that the real of fight of 2009 will not be any one bout taken on its own, but rather a bout that features bout-on-bout, the epic contest that is shaping up to be Mayweather/Marquez vs. Pacquiao/Cotto.

In a telephone press conference yesterday to announce the Mayweather/Marquez undercard (a pretty damn good undercard as well), the CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, Richard Schaefer, fired the first official shot of this upcoming battle when he said that “This is certainly, without a doubt, going to be the biggest pay-per-view event of the year.” He was adamant that Mayweather/Marquez would outsell the Pacquiao/Cotto fight and even went so far as to suggest that it had the potential to outsell the 2007 De La Hoya/Mayweather fight, which right now, at 2.4 million PPV buys, is the most lucrative fight in the history of boxing.

Strong words, indeed. Across the internet yesterday, Schaefer’s comments were met with widespread derision by boxing fans along the lines of the old “dude, are you high?” variety. On the whole, the buzz generated among boxing heads by Pacquiao/Cotto, scheduled for November 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, has dwarfed that generated by Mayweather/Marquez, scheduled for September 19 in the same arena. Even though Floyd has been away from the ring for almost two years, most people feel like his fight with Marquez is a mismatch merely because of the size differential involved. The bout is being contested at a catch-weight of 144 pounds, and while Mayweather has fought comfortably as a welterweight (and once as a junior middleweight), Marquez has only fought above 130 pounds twice, and he looked small in his fight with Juan Diaz as a lightweight. Though no one in the boxing community disrespects Marquez’s renowned skills, the idea that he can jump two weight classes to beat a fighter as resourceful and disciplined as Mayweather seems like the longest of long shots. Throw in the fact that Marquez has never been a big box-office draw, and that both men are devoted counter-punchers, and you have the potential for not only a mismatch, but a tactical one that is less than exhilarating and that fails to capture the imagination of the public.

Compare that to Pacquiao/Cotto. Pacquiao is a heavy favorite in that fight, but not in nearly the same way that Mayweather is over Marquez, not among boxing pundits anyway. Despite his destruction of Oscar De La Hoya last December, many questions remain about Pacquiao’s ability to fight as a welterweight (or near-welterweight – he’ll face Cotto at a 145-pound limit), especially against a big welterweight like Cotto in the prime of his career and possessing proven speed and very heavy hands. Add to that drama the fact that Cotto is a much bigger star than Marquez, along with the furor that still surrounds Pacquiao following his destruction of Hatton, and you have a fight that on paper promises to be an infinitely bigger draw than Mayweather/Marquez.

For myself, however, I see at least the possibility for an upset in this contest. The question for me is not about the drawing power of Pacquiao/Cotto. That fight will do big numbers, without a doubt. For me the question is about Mayweather/Marquez, and its potential between now and fight night to make up the differential in anticipation that currently exists between the two events.

The main avenue for that will be a familiar one, I think: HBO’s 24/7 series. Mayweather/Marquez 24/7 premieres on August 29, and it may be the most important edition of the lot thus far, because to my mind it has the most riding on it in terms of how it can influence the relative success or failure of a fight. Mayweather has been the breakout star of the 24/7 franchise since it debuted in the spring of 2007, and one could argue that 24/7 made him the star he is today (and vice versa, actually). Floyd is unquestionably great television, as are his curmudgeonly and villainous father, Floyd Sr., and his uncle/trainer, Roger. These three have made for the most compelling 24/7 material by far, and to push the Mayweather/Marquez promotion out of the doldrums in which it currently dwells into the pay-per-view ether, they’re going to have to bring their A-games to this latest incarnation of the series.

Of course, they’ve already suffered a setback on that front – Roger’s recent, grisly run-in with the law. This incident, in which he was found by police choking a woman-boxer who he formerly had trained, is far too ugly to be cast in anything but the darkest light, and it makes Roger Mayweather, who once came off on 24-7 as lovable but dangerous, seem merely dangerous, hideously so, utterly criminal and otherwise unredeemed.

I sense, however, that both Floyd’s braintrust and HBO will be able to find a way to keep the Roger story from completely overshadowing the task at hand. And I see that potentially happening in one very definitive way. If Floyd really wants to take a sure path towards making this fight enormous, and if he wants to immediately supersede any other news that surrounds him or his camp or the fight as it is posited right now, he has it in his power to do so.

All he has to do, with his inimitable gusto, is insult the honor of Mexican boxers, Mexican people, and Mexico itself. Then, oh man … then all hell would break loose.

This to me is the x-factor in the Pacquiao/Cotto vs. Mayweather/Marquez war at the box office, the puncher’s chance, the one reason why, if you gave me the opportunity right now at even money, I still wouldn’t bet on Pac/Cotto doing better PPV numbers than Floyd/Marquez. No one in boxing today (and no one since Duran, I would argue) is so gifted and compelling a villain as Floyd Mayweather. I’ve written at length on this topic before. Floyd wears the black hat with effortless and contagious spirit, and he has built his current fame on the fact that people love to hate him, and watch his fights in droves in the hope of seeing him catch a beating, just as they did in the early 60’s with a Louisville loudmouth named Cassius Clay.

Highlighted by the fact that Mexico City, as the site of Marquez’s training camp, will play a starring role in this upcoming 24/7, if Floyd goes out of his way to insult Mexico and Mexicans on the show, it will do for the fight what Marquez himself probably can’t – bring the Mexican fight-fan masses into the pay-per-view equation in a big way. Marquez has never quite connected with the Mexican fight community in the way of his iconic peers, Erik Morales and Marco Antonio Barrera. But if suddenly he were fighting for the honor of his country against a trash-talking dissmaster on the order of Floyd, well, Marquez would be transformed into a national icon in a heartbeat.

And even beyond the way it would mobilize the Mexican public, should Floyd choose to hate on Mexico in the lead-up to this fight, it would immediately cast the bout as a classic contest of good versus evil on the grandest scale. As for the effects of that on the American scene, I don’t know if you’ve taken a look at a Hollywood blockbuster lately, but cartoonish struggles between the forces of light and the forces of darkness tend to rake in beaucoup bucks at the box office these days. And the more cartoonish, the better. Americans like their good guys good, and their bad guys baaaaaaaaaaad, and our man Floyd can really deliver on that front. How much badder could he get than aiming some gutter-mouthed low-blows at a noble, hard-working, dignified Mexican like Marquez?

I admit that such a strategy would be a bold move for Mayweather, but on the other hand, what does he have to lose? Based on the PR work he’s done to this point in his career, he’s already going to be the bad guy in this fight, and if he wins it, he’s likely going to be the even badder guy in his next fight, which most would expect to be Manny Pacquiao (should he get past Cotto). Pac Man has the good guy market cornered at the moment and for the foreseeable future. At this point, let’s face it – a Pacquiao/Mayweather fight is pretty much Luke Skywalker vs. Darth Vader territory as far as the public consciousness goes.

That’s why I would not be at all surprised to see Floyd, who always has been bold as bold can be, say “damn the torpedoes” and go for the Mexican jugular in the upcoming 24/7 series, thereby transforming what so far has been a ho-hum promotion into a barnburner. In this emerging battle between Pacquiao/Cotto and Mayweather/Marquez, it would indeed be a very dirty tactic on Floyd’s end, and yet on the other hand, it may be his only shot at scoring a knockout in a fight where right now his opponent seems to hold all the advantages.

Source: Sportingnews.com

Teddy Atlas on Pacquiao vs. Cotto

The famous boxing trainer and ESPN boxing analyst Teddy Atlas, Jr., in a recent interview by doghouseboxing.com gave some thoughts on the Manny Pacquio vs. Miguel Cotto fight on November 14, 2009 at the MGM Grand in las Vegas.

According to Atlas, Cotto is a damaged goods as shown in his last fight with Joshua Clottey last June of this year. With Pacquiao's speed, he can get rid of Cotto within five rounds or maybe three. He believes Manny's speed and footwork will be too much and will play a major role in not letting Cotto impose his strength and pressure. As a come forward fighter with a strong body punch, Atlas thinks that Cotto will not be able to do those to someone with Manny's caliber.

He also said that this fight would not be as epic as it should be. On paper, Cotto has some advantages but he thinks Manny's skills will prevail. Another reason why Cotto will not beat Pacquiao according to Teddy Atlas is that Cotto still has Margarito in his minds and that is making him hesitant to throw bombs and finish fights the way he used to do.

See this story for the whole interview.

Emmanuel Steward: Pacquiao is not God or Superman

Trainer and HBO Analyst Emmanuel Steward has again made comments on the pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao saying the boxer is not God or Superman. We all know that Pacquiao is human and can be defeated, but taking away his credits for his recent victories would be another story.

I have no idea what is on Steward's mind but every time Pacquiao has a fight, he predicts a Pacquiao loss. It has been a regularity that Pacquiao faces a bigger man since he faced and destroyed former WBC lightweight champion David Diaz. But despite Manny's convincing victories over these so-called bigger and stronger opponents, Steward thinks Pacquiao will be beated by Cotto because the latter is bigger and stronger.

This good trainer's credibility is questionable when it comes to predicting fights of the Pacman. Now he is saying Manny is not God or Superman. Who said he is? What fans and experts are just saying is that Manny has proven that he can handle big guys at ease because of his superior skills. I would even more understand Steward if he says in public that Cotto has a chance to knock out Pacquiao if the best boxer in the world does not fight like he normally does.

Read here for more about the story.

Pacquiao tickets almost sold out

There would only be a little over 2,000 tickets for the November 14 fight between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto that will go on sale starting Wednesday, Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum disclosed on Tuesday.

Tickets are priced at $1,000, $750, $500, $300, and $150 and “only 2,100 will be sold to the public,” said Arum from Las Vegas.

The casinos have placed bulk orders and Arum expects a sellout as soon as they become available on line.

This early, internet ticket sellers are dangling tickets for the fight with the low-priced $150 seats selling for as much as $340 (P16,320) and a premium ringside floor seat that retail for $1,000 going for as much as $11,760 (P564,480).

The 17,000-capacity MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas will host the Pacquiao-Cotto brawl.

To perk up more interest in the fight, regarded as the biggest bout of the year, Arum will go on a four-city press tour beginning on Sept. 10 at Yankee Stadium in New York with the two fighters in tow. Other stops will be Puerto Rico (Sept. 12), San Francisco (Sept. 13) and Los Angeles (Sept. 14).

After the Los Angeles leg, the 30-year-old Pacquiao said he will return to the Philippines to start the first phase of his eight-week training camp possibly in Baguio City.

Arum said the highly-acclaimed resort city of Cancun in Mexico looks like it as far as the venue of Pacquiao’s training camp is concerned.

In contrast, Cotto is about to start the third week of his light training since the 28-year-old slugger plans to go heavy once his conditioning coach Phil Landman arrives in Puerto Rico this week.

Source: Mb.com.ph

Two title belts up for Manny

LAS VEGAS – When Manny Pacquiao takes on Miguel Cotto at the MGM Grand Garden Arena here on Nov. 14, there will be two titles on the line and if the Filipino icon wins, he’ll cement his legacy as one of the greatest fighters ever in the history of the sport.

Cotto has agreed to defend his WBO welterweight title after Top Rank chairman Bob Arum convinced him to. The other crown at stake is the newly created WBC Diamond Belt, the first time the governing body is awarding the prize.

Pacquiao’s adviser Michael Koncz said yesterday the WBC belt is studded with 400 diamonds and the winner will pay $40,000 to own it.

“The WBC approved in its last convention in China to put up a Diamond Belt to recognize a championship-caliber fight at a catchweight limit,” said Koncz. “Don Jose (Sulaiman) phoned me offering the Belt to the winner of Manny’s fight against Cotto. He told me it was a big honor for the WBC to be involved with Manny and there wouldn’t be a sanction fee to pay.”

Koncz said he will scout possible training sites in Mexico before leaving for Manila on Thursday with fighter Bernabe Concepcion to meet with Pacquiao. He plans to visit Cancun and Puerta Vallarta.

“Manny’s instructions are to find a training site where there are hills for him to run up and down,” said Koncz. “That struck out the Bahamas as an option because it has no hills. I’m not sure about Cancun and that’s why I’m leaving tomorrow to meet with the Yucatan Governor and survey the place. At least, I know there are hills in Puerta Vallarta so that’s a real option.”

Top Rank chairman Bob Arum said he hopes to kick off a media tour with Pacquiao and Cotto at Yankee Stadium in New York City on Sept. 10. That will lead to a Puerto Rican tour then a stop in San Francisco where a press conference is scheduled after the Giants-Los Angeles Dodgers baseball game before 50,000 fans, another press meeting in Los Angeles and finally a visit to Mexico where the travelling party will be received by the President.

Arum said right after the whirlwind tour, he expects Pacquiao to start training, possibly somewhere in Mexico. If Pacquiao plans to return to Manila, Arum said he will try to talk him out of it.

Cotto has already started training but Koncz said he’s not worried about Pacquiao.

“I know Manny wants to finish his obligations in shooting commercials and filming his TV shows and movies by the end of the month,” said Koncz. “Once Manny gets serious in training, you’ll see his determination and commitment. He’s a different man in training.”

Koncz said he expects Cotto to be more competitive than Oscar de la Hoya or Ricky Hatton.

“This could go 12 rounds,” he said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if it lasts the distance. Cotto’s a guy who can give Manny trouble. He’s big, he’s a great body puncher. He’s a fighter like Manny. What will happen after the fight? It all depends on the outcome. If it’s close, we could do a rematch. Maybe, this could even end up in a trilogy like Erik Morales. Cotto’s known as a bleeder but while he is affected when he gets cut, he doesn’t quit.”

Koncz said even as Pacquiao continues to attend to his various non-sports commitments before flying to the US, he is keeping in shape.

“He’s been jogging and playing a lot of basketball as part of his preparations,” said Koncz. “He’s cross training. I think he should be ready to fly within the first week of September.”

As for future opponents, Koncz said Sugar Shane Mosley isn’t a pay-per-view attraction and Floyd Mayweather Jr. has unreasonable money demands.

“I don’t know if Mosley will draw although in the end, it’s really Manny whom the fans want to see,” said Koncz. “As for Mayweather, unless he realizes it’s Manny who’s the attraction, not him, we won’t even talk to him.”

Koncz said his only boss is Pacquiao and sometimes, he is misunderstood because of his loyalty to the Filipino icon. For instance, Concepcion failed to attend the press conference for his fight against Steven Luevano here and Koncz was unfairly blamed for it.

“Manny didn’t want me to go to Las Vegas because I still had things to do in Los Angeles,” said Koncz. “But I reasoned to Manny that I had to be with Bernabe just as his managers were with him throughout his early years. He allowed me to go in the end as Bernabe wouldn’t go to Las Vegas without me. That meant arriving a day after the press conference.”

Koncz was also chastised for throwing in the towel in the sixth round to save Juanito Rubillar from further punishment in his WBA lightflyweight title fight against Giovanni Segura in Mexico last July.

“What fans don’t know is I spoke to Juanito in between rounds and asked him if he was okay, if he could continue the fight despite a bad beating,” said Koncz. “He didn’t answer me. I asked him during at least two timeouts. His trainer (Erbito Salavarria) wanted him to go on but I felt it was enough punishment.”

Although Rubillar took the fight on two days notice, he bankrolled close to P1 Million as a late substitute for Sonny Boy Jaro who now faces Segura in Mexico for the WBA title next month.

Source: Philstar.com

Mayweather Sr: Manny only fights Cotto-like fighters

In a recent interview by doghouseboxing.com with trainer Floyd Mayweather Sr., he was asked where Manny Pacquiao is on his own pound for pound list. He said Lil Floyd is the best. Juan Manuel Marquez is the second reason why Lil Floyd chose to hight him. Hmm. The old trainer, who three to four months ago claimed that Ricky Hatton will destroy Pacquiao is still discrediting the Pacman. He was also asked if Cotto is in his list and he answered yes, until he fights Pacquiao. The good trainer admitted that he knows Pacquiao would beat Cotto, because the latter is a come-forward fighter which kind of fighter Manny would only fight. Old Floyd may be experiencing some memory loss when he uttered those words. Who has more quality and hall of famer opponents, Manny or his son Floyd Jr.? He may have fogotten the likes of Barerra, Morales, Marquez, the bigger Oscar dela Hoya among others.

To check out the whole story, go to doghouseboxing.com.

Pacquiao lethal left holds key vs Cotto

MANILA, Philippines - The punch very similar to the one that brought Ricky Hatton down for good may yet again be the key when Manny Pacquiao fights the younger, bigger but slower Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14.

This was the observation made by Pacquiao’s former business manager, Rod Nazario, who had the pound-for-pound champion as special guest yesterday at his Wild Card Gym in Parañaque.

Pacquiao, despite his very hectic schedule, visited the gym, where he also trained for some of his recent fights, for the ninth anniversary celebration of the television boxing program In This Corner.

“I’ve watched Cotto’s recent fights, and remember this, Manny,” Nazario said as the boxer he used to handle listened. “Cotto has the tendency to drop his right hand as he launches an attack.”

Nazario told Pacquiao that “a short and crisp left” could be the key.

“Like in the Hatton fight, you didn’t have to go after him. All you needed was wait before you could throw that short left,” said Nazario who, despite his medical condition, still came to see the Hatton fight in Las Vegas last May.

Nazario pulled off a big surprise when he gifted Pacquiao with a rare 1856 chess set, made in Russia, which he bought in an antique store in Orlando for $1,050. Pacquiao, a chess buff, said he’d have a special chess board of narra wood with ivory trimmings made.

“Hindi ka na mananalo sa akin (This time you can’t beat me),” Pacquiao told Nazario who, this early, had announced that next year’s In This Corner party will be held at The Manila Hotel.

Nazario is part of the original Team Pacquiao, along with Moy Lainez, Lito Mondejar and Gerry Garcia. Together, they also helped put up the Blow By Blow program that lasted six years until 2000, and then In This Corner.

Pacquiao said Cotto will stake his WBO welterweight crown when they clash at the catchweight of 145 lb.

Pacquiao arrived past noon and went straight to Nazario who was holed up in his office. He came on board his grey Porsche Cayenne and left more than an hour later on his black Hummer for Quiapo to resume shooting his new movie.

Pacquiao said he’s eager to start training for the Cotto fight set at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas but said he has to honor all his prior commitments, mostly showbiz related.

Pacquiao will be in the US for the launch of the press tour that will take him and Cotto to New York’s Yankee Stadium on Sept. 10, Cotto’s hometown in Caguas, Puerto Rico on Sept. 12, and the AT&T Park in San Francisco the following day.

Pacquiao, who will grace the Giants-Dodgers game in San Francisco, said he’d fly back to Manila after the press tour, and should immediately start his training, most likely in Baguio City.

Then after a week or two, Pacquiao will move somewhere outside of the US to resume his training, probably in Mexico or Canada, and will be in Los Angeles or Las Vegas for the final push.

Pacquiao said he stayed up so late Thursday night as he joined the officers of the USS George Washington, the world’s largest warship, which is docked off Manila Bay, just behind the SM Mall of Asia.

Pacquiao toured the 18-storey ship that carries more than 60 fighter planes and a crew of 5,000 at around 6 p.m. Then he had dinner with AFP and US military officials at Mandarin Hotel.

Source: Philstar.com