Pacquiao vs. Cotto Fight News Update

Felix Trinidad Sr. Not Happy With Cotto's Corner/Trainer

2009-11-17T20:47:00.000-08:00

Felix Trinidad Sr., trainer of former three-division champion Felix "Tito" Trinidad, was not pleased with the way Miguel Cotto's corner was run last Saturday night in Las Vegas. Cotto's new trainer Joe Santiago is taking a lot of heat for the beating Cotto took at the hands of Manny Pacquiao at the MGM Grand. Trinidad Sr. agrees with some of the harsh talk on Santiago.

"The performance of the corner was not good," said Trinidad Sr. to El Nuevo Dia. "Joe Santiago tells him to go for one more round when Cotto couldn't change the pace of the fight. What more could Cotto prove at the time?"

"If you have a fighter who no longer has the potential to win, who does not have the strength to land a knockout blow, you must stop the fight. If not, the fighter will continue to receive unnecessary punches. If it was his decision (Santiago), that's wrong."

Trinidad Sr. doesn't blame the inexperience of Santiago. He says the relationship between Santiago and Cotto is too friendly. Trinidad feels that Santiago allows Cotto to play the role as the boss, when the trainer is the one who needs to be the boss of the corner.

"As a fighter you can not ask to stop the fight," Trinidad Sr. said. "You need a corner who knows that, who has the knowledge to stop it and doesn't let their fighter take anymore punishment. That led to Cotto fighting several more rounds, because the boss in the corner is Cotto. A person can not be the pitcher and the catcher at the same time."

Trinidad says Cotto made a mistake by parting ways with ex-trainer/uncle Evangelista Cotto.

Commentary: Felix Trinidad Sr., you are right and you are wrong. You are right that Joe Santiago should have stopped the fight early but what's done is done. You are also wrong when you picked against my man, Manny Pacman Pacquiao. But I can't blame you. A lot of writers, and his opponents discredit Pacquiao's achievements only to find out too late that they were wrong...

Source: Felix Trinidad Sr. Not Happy With Cotto's Corner/Trainer

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Ten Thoughts to Ponder After Pacquiao vs. Cotto

2009-11-17T20:27:00.000-08:00

By now it has sunk in.

Manny Pacquiao is the greatest boxer on the planet not named Floyd Mayweather Jr. He also might be the worst singer ever to put out an album and sing in a band. Here are ten other thoughts to ponder after Pacquiao’s dismantling of Miguel Cotto.

1. Pacquiao can take a welterweight’s punch.

For me, this was the most important question coming in. How would Pacquiao react when Cotto hit him with clean shots to the head and body? Well Pacquiao laid those questions to rest in the first round when by his own admission, he set out to “feel Cotto’s power”.

Come to find out, he wasn’t all that impressed with Cotto’s power, and preceded to thump him for it. In a potential upcoming fight with Mayweather, whether or not Pacquiao can take a welterweight punch is not a question anymore.

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

2. Cotto was ruined by Margarito, or at least his face was.

There are two ways to look at this. The first is that Margarito ruined Cotto forever, and Cotto will never be the same physically. He took something from Cotto that night that Cotto will never get back, no matter how long he takes off or rests.

The second is that Margarito’s plaster wraps(allegedly) ruined Cotto’s face. I have watched Cotto fight for many years now, and the only times I can remember his face looking as swollen as it did Saturday night was against Margarito. His face now shows the toll of the beating he took that night. He cuts easily, and swells often. No matter the future course of his career, it seems this is a problem he will have to live, or fight with, so to speak.

3. Mayweather is backed into a corner now, he must face Pacquiao.

If you are a true fan of boxing, you have to love this. Mayweather Jr. has finally run out of options. He has to fight Pacquiao now. The public demand will be too great. The money offered will be too much. His ego won’t allow him to duck this one.

Now if it were up to him, I’m sure Mayweather would gladly fly to England to give Ricky Hatton a rematch. I’m sure he is dying to get into the ring with Chavez Jr., preferably in Mexico City. It could be billed as battle of the undefeated. Somebody’s O must go.

Good thing for fans, and perhaps for Mayweather’s legacy, he really only has two serious options now. Either he fights Pacquiao next, or fights the winner of Berto/Mosley.

4. Is Shane Mosley ever going to get a break?

After waiting a whole year to land a big fight, Mosley will have to wait probably another year to get a crack at Mayweather or Pacquiao. If he gets by Berto, and he should; he will still have to wait for Pacquiao vs. Mayweather to come together. Assuming this fight comes off in April or May, the winner most likely wouldn’t fight for another four to six months. That’s Oct. or Nov. Another year for Mosley to get older, and more tired chasing the big one.

5. Mayweather needs Pacquiao more than Pacquiao needs him.

Pacquiao is definitely in the drivers seat. He could fight any number of guys next and the world would watch. He could retire now, his legacy is secure. No one will accuse him of ducking anyone, or dodging big fights. He has taken on all comers. In many cases he has fought bigger guys. He has challenged himself on the highest levels. If he retires now, he will still be an icon and national hero in his country. He could run for office or become a movie star, and make money for years to come. Mayweather, on the other hand, has Philthy Rich Records. ‘Nuff said.

6. Pacquiao; How merciful art thou?

In two of his last three fights, Pacquiao has appeared to show mercy to his opponent. Against De La Hoya, Pacquiao seemed to back off several times and allow De La Hoya to escape the pounding he was giving him against the ropes. Saturday night, he seemed to tire of chasing Cotto around the ring and took his foot off the gas pedal late in the fight. The only reason he couldn’t show Hatton mercy was Hatton’s need to ram his head into Pacquiao’s fists repeatedly with his hands down.

7. Might Pacquiao’s next fight be his last?

If you are a fan of Pacquiao you need to really take this into consideration. Pacquiao is running out of ways to challenge himself. After a Mayweather showdown there really is little left for him to do in boxing. Maybe he fights Shane Mosley, maybe not. Even so, he is very likely only going to fight a few more times. Appreciate him now, it will be too late later.

8. What really is next for Cotto?

Did anybody else feel bad watching Cotto’s family on TV Saturday night? Seemed like every time they showed them they were cringing or turning away. I felt like cringing myself after about the seventh round. Everything after round seven was unnecessary punishment. If Cotto doesn’t retire lets hope he takes a long vacation and lets his body and mind heal from this loss.

9. Can somebody please get rid of Chavez Jr. for me?

If I could pinpoint one of the things that helps MMA take away boxing fans, its fighters like Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. He is the worst 42-0 fighter I have ever seen since Brian Nielson. If I might, let me suggest some possible challengers for the young man. Let me see, Paul Williams, Kelly Pavlik, Shane Mosley, Kermit Cintron, any of those will do for his next fight.

10. Pacquaio vs. Mayweather Jr. is the most significant fight of our generation.

It really is hard to state this any more plain than that. This fight will be the most significant fight in boxing today, and for a long time. You could say since De La Hoya vs. Trinidad, but I think this fight will be much bigger. I think this truly is the one fight you have to see. This is the Leonard vs. Hearns of our generation. This is boxing’s version of Fedor vs. Lesnar. The undefeated all-time great vs. the unstoppable force.

Commentary: I 've watched Pacquiao fights even before he crashed to the American stage by beating L. Ledwaba, so if Manny decides to retire I am OK with that. As a fan I sure would to see him continue fighting for the sheer thrill of watching his fights but as of now, there is nothing more I can ask from my favorite fighter of all time...Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao.

Source: Ten Thoughts to Ponder After Pacquiao vs. Cotto

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao versus boxing: is there anyone left?

2009-11-15T19:31:00.000-08:00

Last night boxing experienced a Marvin Hagler-Sugar Ray Leonard moment--for five rounds. Forget what ESPN's Tony Kornheiser said earlier in the week, you know that the fight doesn't matter because boxing is not what it once was. Forget about Puerto Rico versus the Philippines. Forget about any title that was won or lost. No, last night not only mattered, but it was the latest chapter in a historical career. The best fighter of this generation, Manny Pacquiao, once again transcended the sport, geographical origins, and championship belts.

To his credit, Miguel Cotto used everything in his arsenal to change the course of history. He's much faster than he is given credit for and he was able to do what Ricky Hatton and Oscar De La Hoya could not--land punches. The punches had little effect on Manny's game plan, which is amazing given that Cotto is known as one of the premiere punchers in the welterweight division. Pacquiao had some difficulty with Miguel's speed early on, which everyone does, but he was able to start timing him with precision after the third round.

Once Miguel began to step backwards, beginning in the seventh, the fight was effectively over. At that moment, it became less about fighting Manny and more about surviving beyond the Freddie Roach prediction of a 9th or 10th round knockout. Cotto made it to the final round before Kenny Bayless stopped the action. The boxing scribes will no doubt discredit Cotto; however, it all comes down to a very good fighter stepping into the ring against an exceptional one.

While the scoring is not relevant, it is important to take a quick diversion and look at the 3rd round. HBO's Jim Lampley stated repeatedly that the round could be a 9 to 9 round. How? Was there a penalty deduction? Lampley should know, and Harold Lederman should have corrected him, that there will NEVER be a 9 to 9 round without a penalty being assessed by the referee. As such, the round was either 10 to 8 or 10 to 9 for Pacquiao. There was no other way to score it. Okay, scoring diversion complete.

So what's next? Frankly, that picture was a little more interesting before yesterday. Sugar Shane Mosley used to be brought up in discussions regarding Manny's next move. Do we want to see that now? Juan Manuel Marquez will never get a trilogy fight. Andre Berto is not a financially viable option unless he does something amazing when he fights Mosley in January.

No, as we all know, there is only one mega fight left for Manny Pacquiao and it is against Floyd Mayweather, Jr. After last night, even that match-up may be unnecessary because the only man who can defeat Manny is Manny. Cotto represented the toughest test at welterweight and in this new division, Mannyweight, at 145lbs. Mayweather cannot shoulder roll and pot shot his way to a win over Pacquiao. He will have to fight, not box, which is a concept that is very unfamiliar to him.

The bottom line is that if Cotto couldn't hurt Pacquiao then there is no realistic chance that anyone, within reason, can. While Pacquiao-Mayweather would likely be the highest grossing fight in boxing history, which is the only reason for Pacquiao to take it, there is nothing left for him to prove. Manny has always fought the best and defeated the best. He did it again last night and Mayweather represents a step backward. The problem for Manny is that there are no more forward steps remaining.

Commentary: You're right on the money my man. The only reason that Manny Pacquiao should take the Mayweather fight is for the very big money he will rake in. But it will no longer prove much about anything anything...

Source: Manny Pacquiao versus boxing: is there anyone left?

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Fight analysis: Mind over matter

2009-11-15T19:19:00.000-08:00

MANILA, Philippines - It took a lot of guts to do what Manny Pacquiao did in beating Miguel Cotto for his seventh world boxing championship in seven different weight divisions at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas last Saturday night (yesterday morning, Manila).

Pacquiao, a 3-1 favorite, realized from the onset that Cotto’s power left jab – the same weapon he used in scoring a unanimous 12-round decision over Sugar Shane Mosley in 2007 – would be a huge problem.

Cotto pumped double left jabs to keep Pacquiao off-balance in taking the first round of their WBO welterweight title bout. Fighting from a distance, Cotto had the advantage of dictating tempo because of his jarring left jab.

Pacquiao knew that his chances of winning hinged on getting Cotto to come forward so he could use his hand-speed and foot-speed to frustrate the Puerto Rican. But if Cotto continued to throw the left jab, it would be a long night for the Filipino icon.

Pacquiao made instant adjustments to offset Cotto’s edge but it meant taking a huge risk. Abandoning his plan to stick and run, Pacquiao held his ground, inviting Cotto to engage. He even did a version of Muhammad Ali’s rope-a-dope, leaning against the ropes without hitting back to lure Cotto inside. Pacquiao’s gamble was to raise Cotto’s level of confidence so he would forget about jabbing from a distance and instead, move in to unload power shots.

In the third round, a right put Cotto down for a mandatory eight-count but it hardly made the Puerto Rican think twice about moving in. Cotto wasn’t badly hurt and in fact, was on the attack before the round ended.

Pacquiao’s adjustment was evident in the fourth as he allowed Cotto space to lean on him against the ropes. It was a dangerous strategy as Pacquiao exposed the side of his body to Cotto’s murderous left hooks. But Pacquiao figured it was the only way to get Cotto out of his jabbing mode and make him an easier target.

What happened late the fourth round was exactly how Pacquiao planned it. Cotto became comfortable throwing short-range bombs and got caught with a vicious left hook to the jaw. It was a brutal blow. Cotto dropped to his knees and looked wobbly as he stood up. The bell rang shortly after to save the Puerto Rican from another fall.

Clearly, Cotto couldn’t figure out what Pacquiao was up to and walked into the Filipino’s trap. In the sixth round, Pacquiao staggered Cotto once more, methodically turning the contest into a one-sided massacre. Cotto’s face was a mask of lumps, bruises and cuts. He looked like a beaten man before the bell sounded to open the seventh round.

With his will to win slowly eroded by Pacquiao’s unforgiving pressure, Cotto decided to do the unthinkable for a defending champion – he began to run. At that point, all he wanted to do was to survive the fight on his feet. He got on an imaginary bicycle and took off, leaving Pacquiao in hot pursuit. Cotto’s aggressiveness was gone, a thing of the past, and he transformed into a shadow of his old self, running scared instead of standing up to fight.

If you think about it, Cotto would’ve probably stolen some rounds from Pacquiao using the power jab to stymie the Filipino’s momentum. That would’ve kept Pacquiao at bay. But Pacquiao had Cotto all figured out. He knew if Cotto continued to dictate with the jab, he wouldn’t be able to get untracked. The danger of losing on points loomed.

Cotto’s adjustment to box starting the seventh round threw off Pacquiao momentarily. Cotto might have even taken the eighth canto using the stick-and-move routine as the Filipino tried to chase down his prey. But the change in tactics proved futile. Inevitably, Pacquiao caught up with Cotto who progressively grew slower as the fight wore on.

Referee Kenny Bayless mercifully stepped in to halt the carnage at 0:55 of the 12th round. He could’ve allowed Cotto to finish the distance as it didn’t seem like he was in any danger of going down. But Cotto didn’t deserve the reprieve. Down the stretch, he fought like a mouse running away from a cat – it was no way for a champion to go. You would expect a defending titlist to go down fighting, not to go down running.

Bayless did the right thing to stop it and award Pacquiao the satisfaction of winning inside the distance. Cotto no longer fought back anyway and in fact, Bayless would’ve been justified to stop it even a few rounds earlier.

For Pacquiao, the five elements that sealed the victory were:

• Speed. Clearly, Cotto had no antidote to negate Pacquiao’s hand-speed and foot-speed. The boxing adage of “speed kills in the ring” was obvious in the fight.

• Stamina. Pacquiao was in excellent physical condition. He still looked fresh in the 12th round and probably could’ve gone a few more. The Filipino was stung occasionally but never took a step back.

• Adjustments. Pacquiao didn’t take long to make adjustments. He took away Cotto’s power left jab by drawing him close then as the Puerto Rican got comfortable inside, the Filipino whirled around to throw his bombs. Pacquiao fought intelligently. Cotto wasn’t smart enough to blunt Pacquiao’s edge.

• Two-fisted attack. Pacquiao rained punches from all angles. Cotto didn’t know where the blows came from. Pacquiao decked Cotto with a right in the third and a left in the fourth.

• Heart. Pacquiao took a big gamble by leaning against the ropes to invite Cotto to whale away. Only a gutsy and fearless fighter would do it. Pacquiao once more showed how big his heart is and when you come down to it, that was the margin of difference.

Commentary: Great analysis! Who is this guy anyway?

Source: Fight analysis: Mind over matter

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Emanuel Steward interview "Pacquiao is beyond the Hall of Fame"

2009-11-15T19:02:00.000-08:00

8CountNews caught up with the legendary trainer/HBO commentator Emanuel Steward and got his thoughts on the spectacular performance put on by Manny Pacquiao. Steward leaves no question as to where he feels Pacquiao should be ranked amongst the all time greats, and that's at the top. Steward shares his thoughts on history in the making, and breaks down the big fight. Check out what one of the games brightest minds had to say in this exclusive one on one interview.

8CN - Manny it was an incredible performance put on by Manny Pacquiao, give me your thoughts on the fight.

ES - I thought Manny Pacquiao looked sensational last night. I saw him fight more seasoned and relaxed than I had ever seen him. He made Cotto look like an inferior type fighter. He showed punching power, boxing ability, combination's, ring intelligence, ability to take a punch, and angles.

8CN - You're very good at looking at a fight early on and being able to tell what the outcome will be. Did you have this fight figured out early?

ES - Yea, I had Pacquiao favored close before hand. I didn't think he would win by that kind of margin. The speed in the beginning, and the different strengths he showed changed the fight. All of the sudden Manny got into his rhythm and that's what threw Cotto off. Manny can punch, move, whatever and Cotto is a straight more forward fighter. He can't throw all of those punches and combination's. You see Manny can throw punches from all angles and twists, and turns, and his punches are coming from all angles. I said at the 3rd round that this was going to be a very good fight, and then all of the sudden Manny gets the knockdown, and Miguel never got his confidence back anymore.

8CN - Manny now has seven world titles in seven different weight classes. You have seen a lot of great fighters, so where do you see him now? He's got to be in the greatest of all time ranking now, no?

ES - You said it right there, he's the greatest of all time. He's the only modern fighter.... I mean Bernard Hopkins will go to the Hall of Fame, and De La Hoya will too, but none of them has accomplished what this man has. He's been in America for the last 8 or 9 years fighting the top in the business all the way up to the top welterweights, and been consistent in all of his fights. Even the one fight he lost, he still fought a great fight, and then came back and knocked him out in the next fight. Everybody that's been available to him, he's put forth great performances against. He's definitely an all time great. He's beyond Hall of Fame, he's an all time great with the Muhammad Ali's and the Ray Robinson's.

8CN - If a fight between Mayweather and Pacquiao happens next, how do you see that fight playing out?

ES - I haven't had enough time to really think about it yet. Mayweather is a different animal, he's a lot more technical. But also, Manny will be difficult for him because Mayweather had a stationary target in front him in Marquez. Manny is a moving target and punches from all angles. I think it's going to be a very interesting fight, and I definitely think it's going to take place.

8CN - Describe the atmosphere last night in the MGM Grand.

ES - It was thick, the crowd became so big that the ring just became a little dot in the middle of it all. The Puerto Rican fans and the Filipino's were all there to support their guy. It was like two guys, two bad kids from the neighborhood that were going to fight and everyone was there to take bets on who's going to win. The atmostphere was like war, because of the mindset in both guys.

8CN - Thank you for doing such a good job giving the fans a great perspective of the fight from your angle. Thanks for doing this interview on short notice.

ES - Thank you, and I enjoy doing your show.

Commentary: Emmanuel Steward is a very objective analyist and in fact he doubted Pacquiao many times in the past. But it is nice to hear that he finally give Pacquiao the credit due to him. But whether Steward acknowledge it or not, after the performance Manny Pacquiao showed last night, in my mind, he is the greatest fighter of all time already, without a doubt.

Source: Emanuel Steward interview "Pacquiao is beyond the Hall of Fame"

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Peaking Manny Pacquiao can decimate Floyd Mayweather

2009-11-15T18:54:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS--As ring immortal Joe Louis once said of slick Billy Conn, I now say to Floyd Mayweather Jr. concerning Manny Pacquiao: You can run but you can't hide.

Speaking of ring immortals, we can surely now crown Pacquiao as the greatest lighter weight fighter (welterweight and below) since Roberto Duran as a lightweight and Sugar Ray Leonard at welterweight.

But don't take it from me, listen to WBC President Don Jose Sulaiman, speaking to me over breakfast in the Studio Cafe seconds ago:

"Manny is an alltime great fighter. I was so amazed with his blinding speed. He is a great fighter and a great entertainer and a humble boy who does not forget that he came from a humble bed. His whole country can be proud and be amazed just as I am," Sulaiman said.

In what had to be Mayweather's's worst nightmare, the Pinoy Idol burnished his legendary status with a complete demolition of rugged Puerto Rican Joshua Miguel I'm No Angel Cotto Saturday night at the MGM Grand.

Compassionate referee Kenny Bayless rescued Cotto from needless punishment at the 55 second mark of the 12th and final round.

The prefight question, which was can Pacquiao possibly defeat the undefeated, supremely skilled Mayweather, is now altered.

The post fight questions are twofold.

One, will Mayweather, who claims to be his own boss, give a direct order to Al Haymon and to his Golden Boy minders, that he will accept no other next opponent than the little brown guy from General Santos City who destroyed Oscar de la Hoya, Ricky Hatton and now Cotto in succession?

And, two, I must now ask this pertinent question, would Mayweather have a real chance of beating the still peaking Pacman?

My updated List of Why Pacquiao Beats Mayweather follows:

1. Manny's speed and ring movement clearly matches that of Mayweather now.

2. Manny hits a helluva lot harder than Floyd does with his pittypat, flicking blows.

3. Those patented shoulder rolls won't stop the furious fists of Pacman. As Cotto rightly noted, it wasn't just the volume and the force of Manny's two-fisted attack which ran him over, it was that he could not see where the shots were coming from. Yes, Mayweather's a defensive genius but can he win only by running when Pacman's attack will be nonstop?

4. Superior trainer, strategist. Roger Mayweather may have another jail "staycation" coming up but, as a trainer, he can't compare in any way, shape or form to this generation's answer to Angelo Dundee, "Master" Freddie Roach.

5. Floyd is the older fighter by a year or two and Floyd has been the more inactive fighter.

6. As hard and diligently as Mayweather trains, nobody outworks Manny when he puts all else aside and focuses on getting ready for a fight.

7. There's a special aura about Manny that Mayweather never had and never will have even if he were to beat Pacman in this perceived battle of "Good" (Manny) versus "Evil."

8. Sparring partners: You can find Mayweather clones or at least guys who copy his style. Where in hell can the Mayweather camp find a Pacman style sparmate? Such a person does not exist.

9. Mayweather's greatest nights in the ring are behind him while Manny's are in the future.

10. Madam Auring, who I know many of you young guys do find damned alluring, will pick Mayweather to win, thus making a Pacquiao victory a certainty. Not to mention, though I must, that our esteemed president the always glowing GMA and her friend, Hillary Clinton, will both back Manny 1000 percent.

Commentary: Where on earth can they find a fighter who can fight like Manny Pacquiao to prepare for a fight? I don't know. There is only one Manny Pacquiao!

Source: Peaking Manny Pacquiao can decimate Floyd Mayweather

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

If he doesn't fight Pacquiao, Mayweather is exposed

2009-11-15T18:42:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS—Floyd Mayweather’s victory over Juan Manuel Marquez in September was totally one-sided but left us with little to remember.

So I think it’s fair to say that, in handing full-fledged WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto a wicked beatdown from start to finish over 33 minutes and 55 seconds Saturday night at the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Manny Pacquiao also made this remarkably clear: that he has an extremely good chance to beat the unbeaten Mayweather.

I would not have added the “extremely” part until I witnessed this completely surgical takedown of the redoubtable Boricua Banger.

Now the only fight that public truly demands is Money May versus Money Pacquaio.

No ifs, no buts, no candy and no nuts.

The world wants this miniature edition of Ali vs. Frazier and it wants it soon.

I mean, is there any possible way Mayweather or his minions can criticize this classic Pacman performance?

I don’t see how especially when this bout was 100 times more enteraining the Floyd-Juan Ma boreathon. I enjoy a boxing clinic but, let’s face it, most fans don’t care for same.

The Pound for Pound king is Megamanny.

The world’s best welterweight is Manny.

The most exciting fighter on the planet is Pacquiao.

Memo to Mayweather: Make a deal, sign the contract.

Because if you don’t, your secret will be out.

Then we’ll all know that you fear Pacquiao, that you also believe he can hand you your first loss, take away that precious “O” on your record.

It’s time to put up or shut up, Mayweather.

Man up and sign to fight Manny.

If not, you can only bow down and kneel in Pacman’s direction and say, “I am not worthy.”

If this super bout isn’t made in short order, your secret will be exposed.

Then Mayweather’s Mannyphobia will be out of the closet

Commentary: I think the biggest obstacle for this fight to materialize is whether Floyd Mayweather can summon enough courage to fight the beast in Pacquaio. If Floyd insists without backing down for an unreasonable price sharing then you can bet your house on it that he is simply to scared to fight Pacquiao.

Source: If he doesn't fight Pacquiao, Mayweather is exposed

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

It Was Almost As If There Were Two Of Him In The Ring

2009-11-15T18:10:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS – Freddie Roach had predicted an early knockout for Manny Pacquiao Saturday night. Miguel Cotto wishes he was right.

For nearly 12 rounds Pacquiao battered the WBO welterweight champion the way the typhoon that had driven Pacquiao out of his training camp and back to Roach’s gym in Hollywood had battered the Philippines last month. By the time referee Kenny Bayless stepped in at :55 of the 12th round and stopped what had become a mugging rounds earlier Cotto’s face was barely recognizable, his spirit was broken and his world title was gone.

His cheeks were bruised and so puffy his eyes were half closed. His lips were swollen to the point where it looked as if he’d overdosed on collagen injections between rounds. As he stood in his corner, broken and beaten, his mother came to his side and held his hand, kissing his fingers as if trying to comfort a small boy who had run into the town bully on his way home from school.

Cotto had spent much of the second half of the fight in almost constant retreat, circling on his toes and seldom throwing anything at Pacquiao with authority because he knew if he did the beating he was taking was only going to get worse. Yet not even retreat allowed him to avoid what became a constant onslaught from Pacquiao for which he had no answers and no defense.

“I couldn’t see where the punches were coming from,’’ Cotto admitted. “I couldn’t protect myself.’’

His corner should have but they didn’t, allowing him to go out for the final round when it was clear he had no chance to win and was absorbing almost constant punishment. When Pacquiao again drilled him with a stinging combination that drove him into the turnbuckle, Bayless stepped in and mercifully ended what had become a nightmarish affair for Cotto and a glorious one for Pacquiao.

Pacquiao had by then rearranged Cotto’s features, battering his face until it was all but unrecognizable. From the second round on, Pacquiao’s superior hand speed and movement had allowed him to control matters, catching him time after time with fierce combinations that quickly transformed a proud champion into a pacifist unwilling and unwanting to throw punches because he was spending much of his time using both hands to try and smother the assault he was under.

The fight started cautiously enough with both men measuring the other but taking few chances. Cotto flicked his jab and tried to land a left hook over Pacquiao’s right while scoring to the body on several occasions in the opening round but that quickly changed in Round 2 with both flurrying more and Pacquiao turning up the pressure and quickly changing angles to try and confuse Cotto.

Pacquiao dropped Cotto to his gloves with a short right hook with more than two minutes still left in Round 3 but that seemed only to enrage Cotto, who attacked, pushing Pacquiao back into the ropes. The two had several fiery exchanges and in Round 4 Cotto seemed to have Pacquiao trapped on the ropes for most of the round when suddenly Pacquiao reversed the situation, flurrying as he did. Cotto went to the ropes and was hit with a right hand and a following left hook that snapped his head around and sent him to the floor a second time. For all intents and purposes the fight was over at that point.

“Manny fought Cotto’s fight too much early,’’ Roach said, “but as the fight went on Manny’s speed was too much for him. It should have been stopped three rounds sooner when he began to run.

“Manny broke him down. His hand speed was too much. His in and out movement was too much. Once I saw him backing up I knew it was over.’’

Pacquiao (50-3-2, 38 KO) was calm in the early rounds even when Cotto was landing some snapping punches and pressuring him into retreat. All along he kept waiting for the moment that quickly came, the one where he could unleash his fury on Cotto and begin what would become a systematic demolition of the welterweight champion.

“I was looking for the knockout shot,’’ Pacquiao (50-3-2, 38 KO) said. “That’s why I didn’t throw a lot of punches. Then I landed a good right hook.

“The key to the fight was to stay disciplined. We didn’t panic in the ring (early). I needed time to test his power. As the fight went on I was looking for a one-shot knockout.’’

He didn’t get that but when Cotto arose from the second knockdown round four was nearly done. As it turned out, so was he.

There was already a bruise under his right eye and as he sat on his stool he wore the blank expression of a man lost in the wilderness as his trainer, Joe Santiago, vigorously rubbed his scalp to revive him. Cotto survived the next round by staying in a defensive shell but Pacquiao continued to outquick him and change angles, always seeming to be a move – and two punches - ahead of him.

The champion’s last stand came in Round 6 when the two were at close quarters most of the round and engaged in several furious back-and-forth flurries. But once again Pacquiao got the final word in, a stinging left hand near the end of the round that rocked Cotto, sending him backwards once again. Cotto quickly spun off the ropes this time and pushed Pacquiao away before he could land another blow but by then the Filipino’s speed was taking a heavy toll on Cotto’s features.

“He hit harder than we expected,’’ said Cotto’s trainer, Joe Santiago. “He was a lot stronger than we expected.’’

For the rest of the night Cotto settled into a defensive shell, his hands held high, staying on his toes and circling away with the wary look of a beaten animal in his fast-closing eyes.

Round after round the story never changed. Pacquiao would blister Cotto with fast flurries that bent him over or sent him backwards and then Cotto would retreat only to soon enough be assaulted once again. He had no answer to any of this except to bravely try to hold on until the Filipino storm had blown over.

This, and little more, is what he did until Bayless finally said what Cotto’s father had been hollering for several rounds - “Enough!’’

But that was well after he was rocked again in the ninth round by another combination that sent him back to the ropes and although he briefly escaped it soon happened again and then a third time. With each crushing flurry, Cotto’s face continued to swell like an angry blowfish, his eyes now little more than slits.

“I didn’t protect myself,’’ Cotto said before leaving for a full head and body scan at University Trauma Center. “He threw from all angles.’’

Worse than that, he landed from all angles. No matter where Cotto turned there was no route of escape, no safe haven, nowhere to turn. Pacquiao seemed to be everywhere. It was almost as if there were two of him in the ring.

There was not however because there is only one Manny Pacquiao. Of that, Miguel Cotto, and all of boxing, can be quite sure.

Commentary: Cotto was half right when he said that there's only him and Manny Pacquiao on the ring, and that no one can help Manny or give him anything to hit him. It turned out to be correct except that it was him who needed help. The next blockbuster is the Pacquiao-Mayweather. The attacking genius vs. the defensive genius.

Source: It Was Almost As If There Were Two Of Him In The Ring

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Pacman's magnificent seventh

2009-11-15T17:58:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS – On a cold Saturday evening, Manny Pacquiao put on the hottest performance of his life, winning an unprecedented seventh world title in different weight classes, and this time making sure that he’ll be remembered forever as the greatest of them all.

It was nine degrees outside when the 30-year-old Filipino superstar waged war against the bigger Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico at the MGM Grand. The fight looked one-sided even if it wasn’t, and in the end, after almost 12 rounds, Pacquiao was declared winner via technical knockout.

Referee Kenny Bayless stepped in and waved his hands to put an end to the fight, a bloody one for Cotto, when the 29-year-old underdog took a big left to the head and looked ready to fall for the third time, pinned on a neutral corner. The end came in the 55-second mark of the final round.

“Takbo siya ng takbo. Ako naman parang mabangis na tigre (He kept on running while I looked like a ferocious tiger,” said Pacquiao in the post-fight press conference, all dressed up, and ready to treat his fans to a mini-concert at Mandalay Bay.

Pacquiao wore a fedora hat because his head was bandaged to protect his right ear where blood was sucked and drained by experts to help ease the pressure. He had a swollen right hand after all the blows he landed on his opponent.

Cotto skipped the press conference because he was taken to the hospital for precautionary measures.

Bob Arum of Top Rank, the promoter of both fighters, welcomed Pacquiao to the packed press center, almost an hour after the fight, as the greatest boxer of all time. It was the same thing he said after Pacquiao knocked out Ricky Hatton last May.

But this time, Arum felt he needed to say it once more.

“I am now going on record to say that Manny Pacquiao is the best boxer I’ve ever seen and that include Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard or Marvin Hagler. I have never, ever seen anyone like him,” said Arum of the new WBO welterweight champion.

“He is the greatest of all time,” Arum added, and not one from among those who packed the ballroom could disagree.

Except for Pacquiao, perhaps, winner of world titles in the flyweight, super-bantamweight, featherweight, super-featherweight, lightweight and junior welterweight. No other fighter in boxing history has won as many crowns in different weight classes.

“I don’t want to compare myself to anybody. I don’t want to compare my achievements to their achievements. All I do is fight, try to win my fights, and bring honor to my country or make the fans happy,” he said.

“I’m just an ordinary fighter,” he said, and his trainer, Freddie Roach, cut him short.

“You’re not ordinary,” said Roach, whose eyes lit up, and said, “You’re the greatest of our era.”

By the time the bout ended, Cotto’s blue corner had turned red with all the blood that flowed from cuts, or gashes, over and under his eyes, his nose, and lips. He was bleeding as early as the fourth round, and after the fight should have checked if Pacquiao had brass knuckles on.

In the ninth round, Cotto, who left the MGM stripped of his WBO welterweight title, started spitting blood to the canvas. You knew he was ready to go, but just wouldn’t yet.

Cotto did land heavy shots of his own, and from ringside, just 10 feet away from the action, Pacquiao looked hurt at times. But he tried not to show it, and succeeded, because each time Cotto connected, he also had something to trade, whether it was as strong or even stronger.

Pacquiao knocked Cotto down for the first time in the fight with a right hook to the head in the 2:10 mark of the third round. But he failed to finish off his opponent, and again in the next round, with only 12 seconds left, a left uppercut sent the Puerto Rican down on the center of the ring.

At some points of the match Pacquiao stood in front of Cotto or did a rope-a-dope, just covering up. But it was not a very good idea because Cotto managed to sneak in strong, powerful punches that made the fight look even or that he was getting hurt.

Cotto brought his bicycle into the ring in the seventh round and stayed away from Pacquiao. He must have felt that going toe-to-toe with the reigning pound-for-pound champion is no longer an option, and the best he could do was stay out of trouble and hope to land the lucky punch.

In the eighth he almost did. With another left jab that had landed early on, Cotto sent Pacquiao’s head tilting backwards that the Filipino must have seen the overhead lights of the grand arena that was filled with more than 16,000 screaming fans, Filipinos, Puerto Ricans and of any other race.

But Pacquiao, the fighter, countered with his own good shots, and connected with a good combination before the bell sounded just near Cotto’s corner. There seemed to taunt each other after the bell, and it looked like the Puerto Rican was to walk to the wrong corner but retreated to his own.

Pacquiao dribbled Cotto’s face with punches early in the ninth round and again the fight appeared to be headed toward the end. Cotto was in serious trouble, and it was just a matter of time, before he either falls down for good or the fight is stopped.

Cotto’s corner was a very busy one at the end of the ninth, and Pacquiao looked so tired punching he sat slouched on his stool. The next two rounds were all for Pacquiao, and Cotto’s handlers must be ready to throw the towels all the same time.

During breaks, the doctor and the referee were observing Cotto if he could still carry on with the fight. But as gallant as he is, the native of Caguas in Puerto Rico kept on, still looking for that one lucky punch that could turn it around. But it never came.

Once or twice, Pacquiao looked frustrated that Cotto kept on running away, bouncing around the ring, just to stay alive. And Pacquiao seemed to have motioned to the referee if there was anything Bayless could do to ask Cotto to engage.

Before the start of the final round, both fighters touched gloves at the center of the ring. In Cotto’s mind, perhaps, is that he’s do anything, and may even jump out of the ring, to avoid being knocked out. In a way he did, because he was up on his feet when the fight was stopped.

A little past seven, Cotto arrived at the fight arena, accompanied by his wife and kids and just a handful supporters. He hardly spoke to his companions and kept himself glued to whatever he was listening to on his Bose headphone.

Cotto was in smart casuals, wearing an embroidered long-sleeved shirt, and as tradition called for he went straight to the ringside section to watch the welterweight action between Alfonso Gomez and Jesus Sotto Karas.

It’s by tradition that Cotto, since he started his pro career in 2001, comes to the venue a little earlier to watch some of the action. It could be some sort of a psychological warm-up and only one other boxer shared that habit with him.

Larry Merchant, the ageless fight analyst, said that boxer is no less than Ali.

Pacquiao came in a few minutes later, with more family members and friends in tow. Still, there was his famous entourage which the fight commentators said make Pacquiao surroundings more like a circus the whole day.

On the giant screens inside the venue, as Yuri Foreman and Daniel Santos were trading heavy blows, Pacquiao was shown inside his dressing room, taking some instructions from his chief trainer.

Then the Filipino superstar was shown with his hands being wrapped by his cutman, Miguel Diaz, as someone who appeared to be a member of Team Cotto watched closely. He was smiling as usual.

By this time, Cotto’s hands were done, and the Puerto Rican was already in his fight uniform, shadow boxing inside his own hideout. He appeared to be in great shape. Later on, the hands of both boxers were checked and signed by the commission.

Richie Mepranum of Saranggani broke the ice for the Filipinos won a split decision over Ernie Marquez in their six-round, junior lightweight contest. Eden Sonsona followed suit, knocking out Eilon Kedem of New York in the second round of their bantamweight clash.

Commentary: I agree with coach Freddie Roach. Manny Pacquiao is the greatest in the history of boxing without disrespect to Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, Sugar Ray Robinson, Hagler, etc.

Source: Pacman's magnificent seventh

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

First name Manny, Last name Pacquiao A.K.A. All-Time Great

2009-11-15T17:46:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas, NV - First name, Greatest; Last name, Ever. And just like that Drizzy track, he can stay there for-EVER. A.K.A Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao, and if there were skeptics coming in last night, he left people with no doubt.

For all the talk about Miguel Cotto's strength, power, size and skill, against Pacquiao it was simply not enough. All-time great is what he will go down as if he chose to retire today. There simply is no other way.

A lot of people posed the question as to whether Pacquiao would be able to handle Cotto's power. They forgot to ask how Cotto was going to deal with not only Pacquiao's power but just as the fight's slogan suggested, Pacquiao's exceptional firepower.

In the third round against a legitimate welterweight whom a lot of people considered as the best in the division, that firepower was felt by the Boricua Bomber. Cotto was dropped by a right hook followed by a short left, along with it, questions as to whether Pacquiao can take his power at welterweight and hurt someone in Cotto's caliber.

Fourth round came. Cotto looked as if he had regrouped. He was winning the round and was establishing his body shots and hooks while pinning Pacquiao against the ropes. Cotto was starting to regain his confidence which got the extremely vocal Puerto Rican crowd back into the fight. HBO commentators Larry Merchant and Emmanuel Steward wondered whether Pacquiao was being affected by the amount of hits he was receiving from the strongest opponent he has ever faced. Jim Lampley called it right however when he made a comment that Pacquiao allowed himself to be on the ropes so he could counter. And with 20 seconds left in the round, "See you at the Karaoke Party" hit. Cotto went crashing down courtesy of Pacquiao's signature left. And just like that, Pacquiao again made his firm believers look like geniuses and his haters foolish. The crowd erupted as Cotto's momentarily lifeless body was re-acquainted with the canvass. Any lesser man would've stayed down. Heck, Ricky Hatton stayed down. A testament to Cotto's will and heart, he got back up on his feet as the round he was clearly winning in the beginning ended up becoming a humbling experience.

Pacquiao continued to pepper Cotto with his skin slicing hits, leaving Cotto's face as if it had a run-in with a blender. He cut Cotto's mug all throughout like a razor blade and relentlessly went after his bewildered foe treating the wounds he inflicted to an alcohol facial. It hurt just looking at Cotto's face and perhaps his fans felt his pain as well when they started to leave the arena as early as the seventh round. The fight was pretty much done with Cotto resorting to his skates after the two knockdowns, using the larger ring to his advantage (or as he would word it) for his benefit, and avoided Pacquiao by all means necessary. He was able to tag Pacquiao with some good counters here and there but the damage he was taking in return was simply too much. And in the final round, referee Kenny Bayless felt the same way as he stopped the fight saving the battered and beaten Cotto from a knockout.

How does he do it? How does Manny Pacquiao continue to surpass expectations and deliver sensational fights after another? Pacquiao has brought the excitement, luster and prestige back into boxing. As a fight fan, there simply is nothing else out there like it.

Commentary: Where is Tony Montgomery? Hahahahaha! Your're right Dennis, we are geniuses, and the Pachaters are fools! Floyd Mayweather Sr. is a multiple fool... And yes I have tremendous respect for Cotto. I hope he will come back again because not all fighters that he will face is a Manny Pacquiao. There is only one Manny Pacquiao. As for Floyd...I have ZERO respect for the guy or it is a boy?

Source: First name Manny, Last name Pacquiao A.K.A. All-Time Great

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao vs. Cotto: 5 thoughts the day after the fight

2009-11-15T17:25:00.000-08:00

You had to be mesmerized by the skill and power of Manny Pacquiao if you watched the fight. Miguel Cotto had lost well before it was stopped at 0.55 of the 12th round but was too proud to say enough was enough.

Before all the talk begins to fade about what happened in the ring at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas and moves to the endless calls for what we all want, Mayweather vs. Pacquiao, let's reflect on a historic fight and two men that gave us our money's worth.

1) Muhammad Ali used a butterfly and a bee to describe his ring presence but Pacquiao looks like a missile, launched from a target. In fact, if you've ever watched fencing he resembles an athlete with a sword in his hand. Out of nowhere he seems to leave a spot in the ring and lunge at his opponent with speed and grace. He gives the impression of leaving his feet when in fact he doesn't. It's almost super hero stuff.

2) Cotto may have entered a gym more than a month prior to Pacquiao commenced training but he failed to do what he wanted. The HBO show "24/7 Pacquiao-Cotto" spent oodles of time making the point that the Cotto camp was no-nonsense and committed to a plan that would have their fighter ready for a man who was facing a young, strong true welterweight in his prime. Oops, that plan didn't work.

3) As he entered the ring on Saturday night, Manny Pacquiao was smiling. The HBO ring announcers mentioned it as odd and of course it was. Pacquiao has a Zen-like quality to him that puts the pressures and complexity of a situation into focus and reduces it to its simplest facts. He trained hard, he and his trainer had a plan, he was ready to execute it, he believed he knew his opponent and how to beat him and he did. How many of us could keep fear and anxiety at bay like that?

4) The unnatural calm of Pacquiao was the answer to the chaos that swirled around him during training camp. After watching "24-7" I wondered why the methodical nature of the Cotto camp wouldn't have an edge on Pacquiao's world tour-like atmosphere. And it was never made clear how much time was eaten up a day for the autograph-signing sessions, photos and celeb drop-ins. None of that mattered. It makes me want to go out and sign up for a meditation class, like right now!

5) While some have said that Freddie Roach is walking a thin line by having it seem that he is as critical to his fighter's success as Pacquiao's skill in the ring, I don't see it...yet. Roach is the other half of the wish bone in Pacquiao's success story. He is part of the cache surrounding Manny and his camp. Celebs are not just drawn to the fighter. It is the two-some that draws them in to worship at the shrine. If, as I said above Pacquiao operates on some kind of consciousness level that filters out the unnecessary noise, then he knows that and Roach will remain at his side.

Congratulations to a fighter worthy of being at least a 50/50 partner in any planned fight with Floyd Mayweather. Seven different weight-class belts is a stunning achievement. We saw the best fight in years on Saturday night. Here's hoping the business wrangling doesn't screw up the next one.

Commentary: Very true, girl!

Source: Pacquiao vs. Cotto: 5 thoughts the day after the fight

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny’s punches smother Cotto

2009-11-15T17:14:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS—Miguel Cotto seemed to be landing more punches than Manny Pacquiao at the start.

By the time referee Kenny Bayless waved off the fight, however, the numbers had reversed itself totally with Pacquiao winning the punching game and scoring a 12th-round technical knockout over Cotto at the MGM Grand’s Garden Arena Saturday night.

The power punches statistics presented by CompuBox clearly showed how Cotto was thoroughly beaten by the new WBO welterweight champion.

Power-punch disparity

Pacquiao landed 276 power punches out of 560 thrown for a 49-percent accuracy, while Cotto—who actually got his pet left hooks going early in the bout—connected on 93 of 300 attempts for 31 percent.

Pacquiao threw a total of 780 punches and landed 336 (43 percent), most of them coming in flurries and from angles that left Cotto befuddled.

In fact, of the 93 power punches landed by Cotto, at least 83 came in the first four rounds. Cotto was estimated to have landed, at the most, just nine power punches from the fifth to the 12th rounds.

Battered and bruised

“I did not see where they were coming from,” Cotto admitted after the fight. The Puerto Rican, whose face was battered and bruised that he needed to be rushed to the hospital after the fight for a precautionary checkup, threw 597 and landed just 172 (29 percent).

Cotto, though was scoring with his jabs a lot, especially early in the fight where he seemed to be dominating Pacquiao.

He connected on 79 jabs out of 297 attempts while Pacquiao landed 60 out of 220 thrown. Both were at 27 percent.

And then there were the numbers from the judges that became moot when Bayless stopped the fight at the 55-second mark of the 12th round.

Judges all for Pacquiao

Judge Adelaide Byrd scored it 109-99, Duane Ford saw it 108-99 and Dave Moretti had it 108-100—all for the only boxer in history to win world titles in seven weight classes.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer had it 108-99 for Pacquiao through 11 rounds, giving Cotto just two rounds.

Commentary: Manny is blazingly fast, amazingly strong, and incredibly tough.

Source: Manny’s punches smother Cotto

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Rockstar Pacquiao Makes History with TKO over Cotto

2009-11-15T17:04:00.000-08:00

Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas was bigger than a Bon Jovi hit for now 7 time world title holder Manny Pacquiao.

The song remains the same for welterweight superstar Miguel Cotto.

It was Reminiscent of Cotto's July 2008 fight against Antonio Margarito in the very same ring. Once again Cotto's face had underwent some serious pugilistic re-construction after a fairly one sided 11 round operating session from Dr. Manny Pacquiao. No Plaster included.

The first three rounds lived up to the hype. It was constant give-and-take punching from both sides.
While Cotto clearly won the first round the world got a chance to notice that along with blazing speed, Pacquiao can also take a punch from a solid welterweight. Cotto landed a few of his trademark left hooks but they didn't seem to rock Pacquaio what so ever.

In round 3 Pacquiao caught Cotto with right that sent him slipping to the canvas. The knockdown didn't appear to hurt Cotto but in round 4 opportunity knocked in the form of a powerful left that sent Cotto down again. As Cotto beat the count the signs of damage were present as his knees showed a bit of rubber.

By the 9th round Cotto's face had swelled considerably and he was bleeding from the mouth and nose. There were talks of stopping the fight in the corner but Cotto wanted to continue. At this point the best he could hope for is to complete the fight.

Once again, in the 11th round, it appeared the fight might be stopped in the corner, however Cotto refused to allow trainer Joe Santiago to call it quits.

In round 12 Cotto danced for his life while the ever ready Pacquiao continued to swat him around. Referee Kenny Bayless finally popped in at 55 seconds to shut the lights off.

The show was over and Manny Pacquiao entered the record books. While the world once again shifted it's attention to Pacquiao vs Mayweather, Manny was talking rock-and-roll. Later in the night Pac-Man was gearing up to perform an 8-song concert at the Mandalay Bay.

Being from Boston I think it's safe to say. That's Manny just being Manny!

Commentary: Manny Pacquiao is the greatest boxer of all time...

Source: Rockstar Pacquiao Makes History with TKO over Cotto

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Bruised and battered, Cotto says he will fight again

2009-11-15T16:43:00.000-08:00

Those in Miguel Cotto's corner on Saturday night at the MGM Grand Garden Arena made the executive, majority decision to send their fighter in for a 12th and final round with Manny Pacquiao.

The fight was called 55 seconds into the frame and awarded to Pacquiao by TKO. But, in reality, the fight ended much earlier, as Cotto was gradually worn down after two solid rounds to start the fight.

Speaking in bigger picture terms, Cotto told his fans afterward that the fight goes on in regards to his career.

Despite having both eyes nearly swollen shut and blood coming out from both his nose and a nasty cut above his left eye, Cotto remained in the ring for several minutes following the bout.

"I will continue," he said defiantly in concluding an interview with HBO's Larry Merchant. "I will continue fighting."

Though Pacquiao stole the spotlight — as expected — Cotto certainly lived up to his billing throughout the main event. He proudly displayed the iron chin and the incredibly strong will which he'd long been known for in the welterweight division.

"He has always been a courageous fighter," Top Rank CEO Bob Arum said. "A great fighter, a courageous fighter.

"It wasn't one-sided until about the seventh round. That was the round where Miguel hurt Manny."

It was earlier than that, however, when it became apparent to all in attendance that Pacquiao had taken control of the fight.

Cotto was given a 10-9 decision across the board from the judges following a first round in which he engaged at will with Pacquiao and displayed quickness which was far better than advertised.

But Cotto was stung once significantly in the third round, going down to his hands, and then went to the canvas officially in the fourth.

From that point on, he became visibly worn and couldn't defend nearly as efficiently as he had at the onset.

"I didn't know from where the punch was coming," Cotto said of his trouble seeking out where Pacquiao's attacks were coming from. "I didn't protect myself from the punches.

"That really made the difference."

It appeared as if pride was keeping Cotto going in the later rounds, as he tried to avoid Pacquiao's flurries by simply moving away.

After the 11th round Miguel Cotto Sr. tried to stop the fight in his son's corner. Cotto even sounded a bit unsure of going any further.

Referee Kenny Bayless looked for the first sign of trouble in the 12th to call the action, with Cotto showing no resistance to the decision when it came.

"I've fought everybody," Cotto said immediately afterward. "Manny is one of the best boxer's we've had of all time."

His words over the arena's public address system were the last any members of the media heard from Cotto, as he was taken to University Medical Center afterward for body scans. His representatives said Cotto generally felt fine and was able to walk under his own power from the dressing room to his team bus after visiting with his family.

There's every reason to believe that Cotto will continue to fight, even though regaining his previous stature in the welterweight division might be impossible.

When all was said and done, he fared better against Pacquiao than both Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton, plus his power can still be a draw, even though it didn't get him very far on Saturday night.

His warrior-like ability to stand toe-to-toe with Pacquiao for so long, too, may have quelled a bit of the controversy surrounding his split decision victory over Joshua Clottey back in June.

He also caused more damage to Pacquiao's face than most challengers have in recent memory, as he was quick to point at the puffiness surrounding his eyes and the wrap around his freshly-drained right ear during the post-fight press conference.

Pacquiao said that, despite trainer Freddie Roach's disapproval, he laid against the ropes a bit during the middle rounds just to test Cotto's power. He obviously paid a small price for it, though the outcome was never in serious danger.

Will the 29-year-old Cotto — now with a still-impressive record of 34-2 — fight again? It certainly appears that way.

It just might be a little while before that happens.

"Cotto, I think, against a normal, great welterweight, would do OK still," Arum said. "But he obviously has to take off a considerable amount of time because he did take a beating tonight, and he has to rest his body."

Commentary: Cotto is beaten but he earns my respect. He is a real man, far cry from the Lil' Floyd Mayweather who has a lot of growing up to do...

Source: Bruised and battered, Cotto says he will fight again

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao: The only fight fans want to see

2009-11-15T10:26:00.000-08:00

Steve Marcus

Manny Pacquiao reacts following his WBO welterweight title fight against Miguel Cotto Saturday at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

As of Saturday night, can anyone think of a single reason why Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao shouldn’t fight?

It kind of seems silly at first. Of course, there has to be some minor, highly insignificant, but ultimately negative thing about the two fighting one another.

But then really think about it. Is there?

Floyd Mayweather Sr. says there is. But he’s not telling anybody.

“Lil Floyd would whoop (him), but to tell you the truth, I don’t think he should fight him,” Mayweather Sr. said. “That would be my advice to him.”

If he’d have no problem beating him though, then why not take the fight?

“I have my own reasons,” he said. “I’ll let you think about it for a second.”

Whatever Mayweather Sr.’s reasons are, chances are they’d have a hard time stacking up against the reasons for why the two should meet in the ring in early 2010.

As Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, described it, it’s a fight the world wants to see. Moments after Pacquiao’s historic win over Miguel Cotto for his world title in a seventh weight class, fans from inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena started chanting, "We want Floyd."

Roach says that he’ll take whatever fight is the best deal for Pacquiao, but his pick if Mayweather.

“We’ll fight whoever we negotiate with the best. If Floyd wants a 65/35 split, he’s not going to get that,” Roach said. “We’ll take the best deal that Bob negotiates for, but personally, I want Mayweather.”

Back in September, following Mayweather’s unanimous decision win over Juan Manuel Marquez, his manager and close friend Leonard Ellerbe said that Pacquiao was the next obvious choice from a marketing standpoint.

That much is especially obvious, as the Mayweather and Pacquiao fights — although Saturday’s numbers aren't official, it’s certainly a reasonable assumption — marked the first time since 1999 that a single calendar year sold two pay-per-view fights that reached more than 1 million viewers each.

As Vice President of HBO Sports Operations Mark Taffet will enthusiastically attest, they are obviously the two most marketable fighters in the world.

“The two fighters’ persona and performance in the ring separates them from the pack,” Taffet said. “From a media aspect, they compliment each other. Pacquiao receives a tremendous following from the West and Southwest markets, whereas in Mayweather we see a lot of Midwest and East Coast activity.

“They are two megastars but to very different target audiences, which is what makes it almost a perfect storm from a marketing perspective.”

Even their styles are tailor-made for one another.

Pacquiao (50-3-2, 38 KO) is the aggressor, who has shown a willingness to take a punch to give one, as well as a constant desire to finish fights even when he’s well ahead on a scorecard.

Mayweather (40-0, 25 KO) is the tactical defender, whose elusive ability is often referred to as poetry in motion; always the type of fighter that looks to score points and attend a post-fight press conference free of damage.

The trainer in Roach says he has the blueprint to defeat Mayweather — something the undefeated boxer is constantly asserting doesn’t exist.

“We’d break him down and beat him up,” Roach said. “Floyd can’t break an egg; he’s fragile. He hurts his hands all the time. He has speed, but if he lays on the ropes and rolls his shoulders, we’ll take everything he gives us.

“I have a great game plan for Mayweather, and I know how to beat the guy.”

Mayweather Sr., on the other hand, remains unimpressed by the Filipino and the wins he has over opponents that aren’t on the same level as his son.

“We ain’t worried about that fight. Tell me where you see a 5-foot-5 (expletive) hitting someone who’s just standing right in front of him,” said Mayweather Sr., referring to the Cotto fight. “That’s what we saw tonight.

“He hasn’t fought the greatest fighter yet. That might be his next task, but I don’t know.”

One person who doesn’t care about Mayweather Sr.’s withheld reasons for the two not to fight is HBO President of Sports Ross Greenburg, who was already in the media center arguing with Mayweather Sr. on the subject immediately following Saturday’s fight.

Before any of the fighters had arrived for questioning, Greenburg was heard saying to Mayweather Sr. that he knew the fight should happen and that it was time to make it happen.

“I don’t want to say it’s just a question of money,” Grennburg said. “When you have a situation where you’ve created two big events in the last three months, basically to set up a semifinals in the 147-pound weight class, and the American public demands to see the fight it has to happen.

“And the way it happens is to induce all sides by getting everyone to check their egos at the door, sit down at a table and hash out the terms. Each side has to look at the big picture, which is there is a boat-load of money and a fight too important for this sport not to happen.”

Top Rank CEO Bob Arum, who promoted Mayweather until the fighter bought out his contract in 2006 because of a falling out, confessed that even he was more than willing to put their differences aside to make the fight.

“I’m not going to put up with any kind of nonsense — no trash talk, I’m not going to negotiate a fight in newspapers,” Arum said. “If Floyd Mayweather wants to fight Manny Pacquiao, he knows who to call. Period.

“There will be none of this, ‘I hate him, he hates me,’ — that doesn’t matter. If he wants to fight, let him call me.”

According to Greenburg, that was news Mayweather didn’t need to hear.

Right before Pacquiao emerged from his final medical checks in his locker room, Greenburg walked to the microphone to deliver news.

“I just got off the phone with (Golden Boys Promotions CEO) Richard Schaeffer,” Greenburg said. “He told me point-blank that Bob Arum would be getting that call on Monday and plans to come in and meet with Bob next to week to make the Mayweather fight.

“I think we can all hope and pray that a fight of that magnitude and importance to the sport of boxing can truly be made, because it is time to capitalize on all the hard work that was done over the last three months. We can look forward to one of the biggest events in boxing history. Let’s see what happens, stay tuned.”

Monday can’t come soon enough.

Commentary: I know why Floyd Mayweather Sr. doesn't want his son to fight Manny Pacquiao. He simply realizes that Manny is more special than his son and that there is a very big possibility Lil' Floyd Mayweather Jr's behind would whoop by the Pacman. Floyd Mayweather Jr. didn't come to the fight so as to give the impression that he is not interested with the fight. But to have someone from his camp check how Pacquiao does against a real welterweight, he sent his father instead. I seriously doubt that the fight would materialize because by now Lil' Floyd Mayweather Jr. is scared of the Pacman.

Source: Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao: The only fight fans want to see

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

ARIZA: PACQUIAO SHOWED COTTO MERCY

2009-11-15T10:10:00.000-08:00

In a post-fight interview following his destruction of Miguel Cotto in which he grabbed the Puerto Rican’s WBO welterweight title and the organization’s super champion belt and also the coveted WBC “Diamond Belt” studded with hundreds of diamonds, rubies and other precious stones, Manny Pacquiao likened himself to a tiger that stalked his wounded prey.

Pacquiao stopped Cotto at 55 seconds of the twelfth round in a brutal beating and said later “I was like a ferocious tiger.”

He said Cotto “kept running” but praised him nevertheless saying “he is still very tough.”

Pacquiao’s conditioning expert Alex Ariza who must be given a lot of credit for working together with celebrated trainer Freddie Roach to turn the Filipino southpaw into a menacing fighting machine told www.insidesports.ph, Standard Today and Viva Sports that “what you saw tonight was mercy. I thought Manny could have finished him so many times but he just didn’t want to hit him anymore.”

Ariza also criticized Cotto’s corner saying “his father should have stopped that fight. Shame on him for letting his pride possibly injure his son.”

However, Ariza said Cotto “deserves a lot of credit. He showed up, he was in shape. No more excuses . I don’t think anybody can ever say anything about Manny . He fought the best 147 pounder out there and destroyed him.”

Asked what’s next for Pacquiao and where he would go from here, Ariza quipped “to the moon. I don’t know where this guy begins where is the end. I just don’t know anymore.” However, while fight fans and the media are pleading for a Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr fight, Ariza said “I don’t like that fight” saying there was no need to give Mayweather any importance.

The conditioning guru said he’d prefer one more fight with Juan Manuel Marquez who has been pleading for one more shot at Pacquiao following two close fights. Ariza said “we’d like to fight Marquez at a 140 pounds and shut his mouth so we don’t have to hear from him again.”

He said Marquez “can go to the mountains, break rocks, drink pee and then come here and get knocked out.”

Commentary: Manny is really a special person. Like Ariza, I do not know Manny anymore. He simply defies any limiting definition of him. He is the exception to all the rules. As to Marquez, I doubt that the venerable Beristain would allow his charge to fight Manny Pacquiao at Junior Welterweight. It is simple suicide.

Source: ARIZA: PACQUIAO SHOWED COTTO MERCY

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao is the greatest boxer and I have seen them all, says Bob Arum

2009-11-15T10:02:00.000-08:00

Manny Pacquiao celebrates after defeating Miguel Cotto in their WBO welterweight fight at the MGM Grand. Photograph: Mark Ralston/AFP/Getty Images

Manny Pacquiao was in extraordinary form last night, both inside the ring, where he dismantled Miguel Cotto to win a world title in a seventh different weight division (a record), and outside the ring, where he interrupted his jovial post-fight press conference to sing a love song. "I'm just ordinary," the always humble Manny had said earlier in the proceedings. As a singer, perhaps. As a boxer, not a chance.

It is always hard to separate the reality from the fantasy in the world of professional boxing, especially when ageless circus barkers like Bob Arum are involved, but one of the many beauties about having Pacquiao around is that he makes everyone's life easier.

He is hyperbole made flesh, the man for whom no claim is too outlandish. So it is that when Arum, who promotes the Filipino's fights, steps up the microphone and says Pacquiao is the "Tiger Woods of boxing" those who are listening are inclined to give the suggestion a fair hearing. Likewise when Arum stood up and said, as he did in the aftermath of last night's display, that Pacquiao is the greatest boxer he had ever seen "and I've seen them all, including Ali, Hagler and Sugar Ray Leonard", no one laughed, they simply started debating.

Is the Filipino that good? Well, the truth of it is we will never know. Cross-generational comparisons in sport are the every definition of futility– like trying to catch a deluge in a paper cup, as a wise songwriter once decreed.

Is he better than Ali? You might as well ask if Arkle was better than Sea The Stars. Same animal, different sport altogether.

Still, there are some things we can say about Pacquiao that are surely beyond debate, the first being that as a boxer he has exceeded all expectations, perhaps even his own. He certainly made fools of those, like Ricky Hatton, who suggested prior to last night's contest at the GM Grand in Las Vegas that he would have neither the stamina to go the distance with Cotto, far less beat him.

Not only did he beat the Puerto Rican, he humbled him, just as he had humbled the aforementioned Hatton and Oscar De La Hoya in his two previous appearances in the same arena. Those victories illustrated Pacquiao's ring mobility and hand-speed, securing his reputation as the most naturally gifted boxer of his generation. Last night's fight proved he is also one of the toughest and strongest. As for the unofficial title best pound-for-pound fighter in the world? Well, the jury has all but made its decision, although wise counsel suggests that one more piece of evidence in required.

The mercurial Floyd Mayweather Jr was nowhere to be seen around the MGM Grand last night, but his presence was felt everywhere and it will be demanded when the world of boxing gathers assembles once again for one of these occasions. Pending the usual behind-the-scenes horse-trading and front-of-house finger-pointing, it is unimaginable that the American and the Filipino will not meet in the ring sometime within the next year. The appetite is too great for it not to happen, and so are the financial rewards for the two protagonists.

Who would win? Both will have their supporters, but if Pacquiao emerges victorious yet again Arum could step up to the microphone and describe his man as the Second Coming and no one will argue.

Commentary: The Tiger Woods of boxing...hmmm. I think the best description is the greatest of the greatest boxer in the history of the sport. A phenomenon which we may never see again in our lifetime.

Source: Pacquiao is the greatest boxer and I have seen them all, says Bob Arum

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Live from Las Vegas: Bob Arum looking to make Pacquiao-Mayweather clash

2009-11-15T09:52:00.000-08:00

Moments ago at the Manny Pacquiao-Miguel Cotto post fight pres conference it was revealed that promoter Bob Arum is planning to meet with GoldenBoy's Richard Schaefer this Mondayto discuss a potential showdown between newly crowned WBO Welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The possibilities of a Pacquiao-Mayweather clash are absolutely intriguing, as some are calling it the biggest event that would have ever taken place in the sport.

While Pacquiao has looked sensational in his recent outings, Mayweather brings a completely different element to the sport. It is a fight that would certainly cause waives in the sport and we should hope that it all can be made.

After being away from the sport for 21 months, Mayweather returned this September 19th with a resounding unanimous decision victory over Juan Manuel Marquez. Despite the win being convincing, Pacquiao has now turned the attention over to his side and it looks like the ball is again in Floyd's court.

Commentary: For the Pacquiao-Mayweather to happen, both promoters must fork in some of their share because neither fighter would be willing to accept lesser share. Manny is reasonably the draw here but Lil' Floyd Mayweather is always the unreasonable one.

Source: Live from Las Vegas: Bob Arum looking to make Pacquiao-Mayweather clash

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao-Cotto post fight presser: Roach and Manny speak on Cotto bout and Mayweather showdown

2009-11-15T08:16:00.000-08:00

Moments ago at the post fight press conference for the Manny Pacquiao-Miguel Cotto bout, Pacquiao himself and trainer Freddie Roach addressed the media following their big win. Just minutes earlier Pacquiao had emerged victorious against Cotto in a wild fight to claim the WBO Welterweight championship of the world.

Manny was first to speak and claimed that he simply wanted to thank everyone for being present.

"I'm very proud," Pacquiao continued. "I just want to enjoy this moment."

When asked how he would compare his success to that of such fighters as Muhammad Ali, Pacquiao was overly humble and modest.

"First off I don't want to compare my acheivement to any fighter," Pacquiao remarked. "We just did our best in boxing. I just want to thank my master in boxing, Freddie Roach."

While it is indeed true that Roach has become a master to the Filipino fighter, he wasn't nearly as shy when giving his thoughts on his fighter's greatness.

"He's as good as any of them," Roach said bluntly when comparing his charge to the great fighters in years past. "He's the greatest fighter of this era that's for sure."

When asked about the possibility of a potential clash between Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr., Roach was definitely interested.

"That's the fight the world wants to see," the trainer continued. "But we'll fight whoever is out there.If Floyd wants a 65/35 split he's not getting it."

Pacquiao then regained control of the dais, giving respect to Cotto for the battle he had given him.

"It was one of the toughest fights in my boxing years," Pacquiao admitted. "I took a lot of punches from Cotto. He's strong and he hits hard. It was all about being smart in the ring and pretending not to be hurt when you really are."

Pacquiao went on to state that he is looking forward to a long vacation in the Philippines with his family. He went on to thank all of his supporters, especially those from the Philippines, and left the presser with a clear message.

"I owe all of this to God. If you believe in God and keep praying, nothing is impossible."

Commentary: If Manny Pacquiao keeps his humility in tact, and his faith in God stronger, no one can touch him in his prime...

Source: Pacquiao-Cotto post fight presser: Roach and Manny speak on Cotto bout and Mayweather showdown

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Simply too much Manny!

2009-11-15T08:07:00.000-08:00

While the first four rounds alone were worth the price tag for this fight, Miguel Cotto just couldn't keep up with Manny Pacquiao as the Filipino superstar shifted into higher gears that the Puerto Rican champion couldn't reach on his best day.

The third round knockdown was legitimate, but Cotto wasn't really hurt. However the fourth round knockdown was "Premium Pacquiao" on this his biggest stage ever, and at this point Cotto knew he was in for a long night. and the route was on.

This fight opened with serious anticipation of Pacquiao having a world class, competitive opponent in front of him who was even bigger, stronger and younger, with one punch knockout power, poise, pride, international respect and the World Boxing Organization welterweight (147) title.

But by round five, this fight was simply target practice for Pacquiao. To be fair, Cotto was the best challenge in years to Manny Pacquiao and he couldn't hang with him.

I'm one that thought the Cotto fight's with Antonio Margarito and Joshua Clottey damaged Cotto. Trust me, Between rounds five through eight, Pacquiao wrecked Cotto worse than those two fights combined.

Why the Cotto corner, which included his father, didn't stop the brutality between rounds five through eight but let it go into the 12Th, when referee Kenny Bayless mercifully stopped it, was cruel and unusual punishment of their own fighter and is why many fighters end up punch drunk and penniless.

Let's hope that corner doesn't have blood on its hands later on. But that doesn't lesson whay Manny Pacquaio did Saturday night at the MGM Grand Casino.

It was one for the ages.

While Pacquiao's boxing greatness cannot be denied, still many believe the seven world titles in seven different weight divisions is still gimmicky. That a magazine title and a Mickey Mouse sanctioning body outside the Big Four shouldn't count toward his seven.

I say Manny, tell them all to kiss your backside!

Commentary: You can bet that Manny Pacquiao is simply too much for Miguel Angel Cotto. Cotto tried his best to hang with the pound for pound champion with some success in the opening rounds. But when Manny switches to higher gears, he simply proved to Cotto and to the world that there is only one Manny Pacquiao.

Source: Simply too much Manny!

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao only one word can describe "unstoppable"

2009-11-15T07:27:00.000-08:00

Manny Pacquiao is truly an all time great. Many can say well Cotto is finished goods, so that's why Cotto lost. I disagree, I feel that Pac-Man was too much for Cotto because he kept moving and launching power shots from every single angle. Early on it looked as if any man could KO the other, but it seemed to me that after 3 rounds Cotto had nothing on his punches. Cotto was able to back up the very strong Clottey and get through his guard with pwerful shots, is Pac-Man stronger than Clottey? I don't think he is but it sure looked that way. Some can and will point to the weight and say Cotto is weak when making weight for anything under 147 pounds, and you know and I know that one could argue that. Some will say well it's only 2 pounds, well if it's only 2 pounds as you say then why not make it at 147? Pick your poison, I shall eat crow tonight and enjoy every single bite. Manny Pacquiao a true great snatches a record seven world title in seven weight classes and I am smart enough to realize when I am witnessing greatness. A fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr. is now being screamed from rooftops all over the world, will Money May answer the call? I don't know if he will, but if he does answer, The question is who indeed is the Great? We will find out when and if that bridge gets crossed, but what I do know is that Floyd Mayweather Jr. is a great talent but Manny Pacquiao is an all time great.

Commentary: Manny Pacquiao is an all time great!

Source: Pacquiao only one word can describe "unstoppable"

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Hollywood, sports stars witness Pacquiao’s annihilation of Cotto

2009-11-15T07:14:00.000-08:00

Manny Pacquiao’s 12-round annihilation of Miguel Cotto on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) gathered some of Hollywood’s top celebrities along with past and current athletic superstars.

Oscar-nominated actor Mickey Rourke and Mark Wahlberg were among those who watched as Pacquiao dismantled Cotto and completed his mission of winning a record seventh division title. Both actors are known Pacquiao fans with Rourke being a former student of Freddie Roach, the Filipino ring icon’s American trainer.

Manny Pacquiao salutes the crowd that features top Hollywood and sports stars after wresting the WBO welterweight belt from Miguel Cotto Saturday in Las Vegas (Sunday in Manila.) AP

Also at ringside were veteran actor Joe Pesci, socialite Paris Hilton, R&B artist Sean “P. Diddy" Combs, comedian Will Ferrell and Jeremy Piven, star of HBO’s hit series “Entourage".

Some of the finest athletes also dropped by to witness the showdown dubbed “Firepower."

Former boxing champions Roberto Duran and Tommy “The Hitman" Hearns, reigning International Boxing Organization light heavyweight titlist Chad Dawson, undisputed light middleweight king and a current middleweight contender Winky Wright, Shane Mosley, New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, Derek Jeter of the World Series champs New York Yankees, and basketball legend Magic Johnson were also seen at ringside.

Philippine Vice President Noli De Castro, Deputy National Security Adviser and former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit" Singson and Mayor Bing Leonardia were among local politicians who trooped to Las Vegas to cheer for Pacquiao.

Kapuso singing group La Divas – Maricris Garcia, Aicelle Santos and Jonalyn Viray – sang the Lupang Hinirang followed by Ednita Nazario who sang Puerto Rico’s National Anthem. Fil-Am Ramiel of the American Idol fame sang the Star Spangled Banner before ring announcer Michael Buffer introduced both fighters.

Pacquiao reportedly earned $13 million (P611,000,000) from the megafight while Cotto pocketed $7 million just to have his face rearranged by the seven-division champion.

Undercard

Eight undercard bouts took place before the Pacquiao-Cotto showdown with two Filipino boxers, a relative of the deposed champion and an aspiring rabbi winning their respective matches.

Abner Cotto, cousin of the former WBO welterweight king, opened up the card with a victory over Lupe Guzman in their lightweight bout while Richie Mepranum, one of the two Filipino boxers in the undercard, won over Ernie Marquez by split decision.

Rodrigo Garcia defeated Martin Guerra by unanimous decision while Eden Sonsona, another boxer from the Philippines, scored a technical knockout victory over Eilon Kedem. Alfonso Gomez needed six rounds to beat Jesus Soto-Krass while Matt Korobov bested James Winchester in their middleweight division match.

Belarus-born Yuri Foreman of Israel, an aspiring rabbi, snatched the World Boxing Association super welterweight championship belt from Daniel Santos when he defeated the Puerto Rican via unanimous decision.

Julio Cesar Chavez outpointed Troy Rowland for the final undercard bout.

Commentary: Do you think Manny Pacquiao is a Hollywood star now?

Source: Hollywood, sports stars witness Pacquiao’s annihilation of Cotto

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Good and Bad News for Boxing: Only One Pacquiao

2009-11-15T06:57:00.000-08:00

When the sixth round ended, Manny Pacquiao did a half-pirouette toward his corner, raised his eyebrows like a happy emoticon and beamed a smile that couldn't be hidden by all the blood in his mouthpiece. Everyone who saw it knew that he knew, at that very moment, that he was going to win the fight. Not that his partisans had any doubt. The MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas roared like never before. "Let's Go Manny!" reverberated again and again as they demanded that their champion finish off his opponent and win glory for the Philippines.

The 12-round welterweight battle between Pacquiao and Miguel Angel Cotto of Puerto Rico had been one of the most anticipated in recent boxing history, a sport that has been in short supply of anticipation lately. And it did not disappoint, what with the momentum the zero-to-hero legend of Pacquiao. Indeed, Cotto, the reigning welterweight champion, was pegged as the 5-1 underdog two days before the fight; but he came in with the power everyone expected him to deliver. Most unofficial scorers gave him the first round. (See a story about Manny Pacquiao.)

But he was still up against Pacquiao, the phenom from the Philippines, who had risen through several weight classes in boxing to win six different titles in as many divisions. At the end of the night, Pacquiao had his seventh. After the referee stopped the fight in the 55th second of the 12th and final round, Pacquiao became the new welterweight champion of boxing by TKO. He had knocked down Cotto in the third and fourth rounds, even as the Puerto Rican had traded tough blows to the head and body with him throughout the early going. By the end of the sixth, however, after Pacquiao's punches came at him from unexpected places, Cotto saw his power diminish, his defenses came down and his face became the recipient of so many blows that his handsome face was unrecognizably swollen by the time the fight was over. Cotto spent the last couple of rounds dancing away from Pacquiao who at times simply dropped his arms in frustration that no fight was going on. (See pictures of the rise of Manny Pacquiao in and out of the ring.)

Nevertheless, the ferocity of most of the fight lived up to its promise, with Cotto valiantly persevering into the final round even though his corner had advised throwing in the towel at the end of the 11th. It was a celebration for Vegas, which saw large community of immigrant Filipinos buoyed by hundreds who had flown in from the Philippines to cheer their champ. The city had already been abuzz with Pacquiao's presence the week before. But Pacman, as he is called by his fans, was a cross-over hit too. In the world capital of gambling, almost everyone, from cab drivers to bartenders to street people, was talking about the big fight — and why Pacquiao was going to take it. "I know I'm Puerto Rican," said one woman on the plane over from New York, "But I love the Pacman." The rowdy rivalry between the two island peoples (appropriately abbreviated P.R. vs. R.P., Puerto Rico versus the Republic of the Philippines) did its fair share to rev up excitement in a town that is used to ethnic marketing (note the billboards for visiting superstars from South Korea, north Africa and Israel, alongside those of Bette Midler and Carrot Top). On fight night, national flags were worn as athletic costumes, though the big money men were still accompanied by towering escorts in body-tight metallic lamé and slave-ankle stilettos. Some traditions never change.

The fight has boxing fans hungry for more — which is good news for the sport's promoters. The trouble, however, is that they only have one Manny Pacquiao to go around. The roster of exciting talent is very thin. The two matches before the main event in Vegas had interesting names in them (Julio Cesar Chávez Jr., son of the famous Mexican fighter, was in one; Yuri Foreman, a Belarussian-born Israeli boxer now living in Brooklyn, was in another) but they were anemic — and not just in comparison to the electric battle between Cotto and Pacquiao. For now, the Filipino fighter says he is going to spend time with his family. He is also probably going to try his hand at politics again. So boxing, besieged by the continuing rise of Mixed Martial Arts, may need more saviors quickly.

Commentary: The moment Manny Pacquiao hangs his gloves is a sad day for boxing. Floyd Mayweather can hang his gloves for all I care...

Source: Good and Bad News for Boxing: Only One Pacquiao

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Win vs. Cotto puts Pacquiao among all-time greats

2009-11-15T06:11:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS - In violation of every expectation, and the blood oath he made to his trainer, Manny Pacquiao put his back to the ropes. It was the one place he was not supposed to be, gloves up in a posture that conveyed a great dare, as he waited to take shots from the bigger man.

"I heard that he's stronger than me," said Pacquiao. "I wanted to test his power."

This was the fourth round of what still seemed a very close fight, Miguel Cotto having won the opening round by establishing a powerful jab. At best, Pacquiao's rope-a-dope seemed to defy common sense. More likely, as you watched Cotto banging him around the body, it was evidence of the natural welterweight's physical superiority.

And then, without warning, everything changed. Not only did Pacquiao escape, he began tearing into the bigger man. The flurries came from angles that Cotto was not accustomed. "I couldn't see from where the punch came," he said.

The most damaging of the blows was a big left that sent Cotto down for the second time. The first knockdown had seen Cotto's gloves touch the canvas. This time, he went down for real. You could see it in the distant, dumbfounded look in his eyes. If it hadn't happened so late in the round, Cotto might not have survived.

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As it happened, I had Cotto winning the next round -- a testament to his heart and a classical style. But Pacquiao shut him out the rest of the way, another six-plus rounds until referee Kenny Bayless finally called it off.

By then, Manny Pacquiao — who began his career as a 106-pounder — looked like a heavyweight. Through that long stretch, he became, not just the aggressor, but the stalker. The bigger man kept trying to dance away, and Pacquiao kept walking him down, closing the distance. By the end, he had made history, becoming the first man to win titles in seven weight classes.

Of course, weight classes aren't what they once were. But that's not Pacquiao's fault. Nor is it his greatest accomplishment. More important, he now merits inclusion in the elite fraternity of all-time greats.

"The best fighter I have ever seen," said his promoter, Bob Arum. "And that includes Muhammad Ali, and Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler. The best fighter I have ever seen."

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A buzz went though the room as Arum invoked Ali. Arum might be practiced in the art of hyperbole, still the statement had merit. Pacquiao is an anomaly. Who else gets better as he gets bigger? What other erstwhile 106-pounder has become a welterweight champion? None. Never happened before. And it probably won't happen again.

There's never been a bigger little man. What's more, it seemed apropos that he should borrow from the most famous big man of all in Ali. The rope-a-dope might be a high-risk tactic, but it allowed Pacquiao to establish a physical dominance that belied his size.

"I yelled at him every time," said Freddie Roach, Pacquiao's trainer. "Why are you fighting his fight?"

"I can handle it," Pacquiao told him.

With his back to the ropes, Cotto was free to bang the body and use his left hook. "I tried to pretend that it's not going to hurt," said Pacquiao. "But it really hurts."

He could laugh afterwards. Pacquiao, an apprentice balladeer who said he would sing eight numbers at the Mandalay Bay after the fight, is nothing if not a happy fighter. But to hear his explanation, he is also a daring, if underrated strategist. In other words, in taking punishment with his back to the ropes, he had Cotto exactly where he wanted him.

"I was trying to control the fight," he said, pointing to his temple. "In my mind."

He took blows few welterweights have been able to withstand. And in taking them, the little guy looked like a heavyweight.

Cotto landed 93 power punches, compared to 276 for Pacquiao. By the end, Cotto had a terrible gash over his left eye. His face had become grotesquely quilted mask. His wife and son had left their ringside seats, unable to witness more. His father asked for a stoppage in the 11th. Finally, with Pacquiao still stalking, Bayless granted his wish.

The Nevada State Athletic Commission ordered Cotto to skip the postfight press conference in favor of a body scan at the hospital. A publicist was left to convey his sentiments: "He wanted the media to know he fought the best fighter he ever fought."

By then, everyone had heard the chants for Pacquiao's next prospective opponent:

"We Want Floyd! We Want Floyd!"

Floyd Mayweather Jr. used to be the best fighter in the world. But now that he's not, you'll find out how big he really is.

Commentary: I was also very surprised and nervous when Manny Pacquiao allowed Miguel Angel Cotto to land his money shots to his body. A big no-no in conventional boxing specially when facing against a very powerful body puncher in the person of Miguel Angel Cotto. But then again, Manny Pacquiao, is simply unconventional...a very rare specie.

Source: Win vs. Cotto puts Pacquiao among all-time greats

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao the best I've seen, says promoter Arum

2009-11-15T05:43:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS (Reuters) - Boxing promoter Bob Arum has worked with Muhammad Ali, "Sugar" Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler but he believes Filipino Manny Pacquiao is the best he has seen.

Pacquiao stopped Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto in the 12th round of their title fight in Las Vegas on Saturday to become WBO welterweight champion and win a seventh world title in an unprecedented seventh weight class.

"I've promoted Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler, and Manny Pacquiao is the best fighter I have ever seen," Arum told reporters at the MGM Grand after Pacquiao's win.

Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach endorsed Arum's statement.

"Compared to all those names, he's as good as any of them," Roach said. "He's the greatest fighter of his era, for sure. 100 percent."

The fighter himself, however, was reluctant to make comparisons.

"I don't want to compare my achievement to any fighter," said Pacquiao, 50-3-2 (38 KOs).

"I'm just doing my job, to give a good fight. My goal is to give happiness and enjoyment to the people who are always watching us."

Cotto began the contest strongly behind a stiff left jab, but his opponent found his range in the second round and scored knockdowns in the third and fourth.

In the second half of the bout, the Puerto Rican champion, bloodied and bruised, mostly circled and retreated hoping to survive until the final bell.

But a Pacquiao barrage prompted referee Kenny Bayless to halt the fight after 55 seconds of the 12th round.

"Miguel Cotto has always been a courageous fighter," said Arum.

"He was just in with a guy tonight who showed me ... that he is certainly the best fighter of this era and maybe of all time."

Pacquiao had bruising around his eyes and a bandage around his head after his left ear was drained of blood by doctors following the fight.

Cotto did not appear at the post-fight news conference as he was taken to hospital for precautionary scans.

Cotto said in a statement he was OK.

"I know I'm cut, I know I'm swollen. I just had a fight, that how I'm supposed to look," he said.

"I did my best. I just fought the best fighter I ever fought. I hope the fans enjoyed a great fight."

Commentary: I hope Cotto will not retire. He is great warrior in and out of the ring. I also like his no-nonsense attitude, and his strong character. Most of all he doesn't make excuses. In terms of character, Floyd Mayweather is clouds away from both Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto.

Source: Pacquiao the best I've seen, says promoter Arum

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao dismantles Miguel Cotto to become boxing legend with seventh world title

2009-11-15T05:36:00.000-08:00

No more: Manny Pacquiao begins his celebrations as Miguel Cotto is pulled out of the fight Photo: GETTY IMAGES

Some had claimed this would be the toughest test of Pacquiao’s career, and yet Cotto’s punches bounced of the Filipino fighter, who nullified his opponent's power and appeared unhurt throughout the contest.

Coach Freddie Roach had said that Pacquiao would win through “speed and power”, and he was vindicated. Pacquiao certainly remains a special fighter.

Pacquiao (50 wins, three losses, two draws) claimed the WBO welterweight title by reducing Cotto to a slow shadow of himself. He danced to survive the closing rounds, but was stopped in the 12th.

Pacquiao’s slashing attacks saw referee Kenny Bayless step in to stop the damaged Puerto Rican taking any more punishment 55 seconds into the final round.

Observers ran out of superlatives to describe Floyd Mayweather’s beautiful performance in picking Juan Manuel Marquez apart a month ago at the same venue, and the scene is now set. Who really is the world’s No 1 pound for pound fighter? Mayweather or Pacquiao?

What is clear is that regardless of the weaknesses of Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton, defeated in the last year by Pacquiao – the boxing world has a major fight on its hands. It will require intricate deals, but it is a fight boxing needs.

With a gameplan clinically exacted, Pacquiao first lured Cotto into attacking him, soaked up the pressure and counter-punched, and then eased to dominance from the middle rounds onwards. Cotto was down in the third, caught off balance, his hands touching down.

But he was hurt in the fourth, hit by a huge left hand. With 13 seconds left in the round, Cotto just survived. Pacquiao thereafter dominated the stanzas, alternating between sitting back on the ropes, and all-out blistering attacks, opening up a cut over the Puerto Rican’s left eye.

Cotto was broken but not beaten by the last quarter, and although he won the tenth round while Pacquiao took a breather, the champion was merely holding on to keep his pride. For the second half of the fight, Pacquiao was the faster, stronger fighter. By round 12, the Puerto Rican had shipped enough punishment.

Pacquiao now looks capable of stretching Mayweather further than ever before. Expect months of wrangling before an early summer fight in Las Vegas. The world now has a right to know which of the two is the rightful pound for pound No 1.

Commentary: This fight should shut the mouth of all doubters and haters of Manny Pacquiao. There are only two fighters who ever able to severely beat Cotto -- one has a loaded gloves and the other one is Manny Pacman Pacquiao.

Source: Manny Pacquiao dismantles Miguel Cotto to become boxing legend with seventh world title

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

In Punishing Fashion, Pacquiao Wins 7th Title

2009-11-15T04:27:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS — Manny Pacquiao was fighting for those struggling in his home country, the Philippines, who were ravaged recently by a trio of typhoons. He was fighting for his family — for his father, who made a rare appearance — and for the millions of fans who follow his every move.

But mostly, Pacquiao was fighting for his place in boxing history, one he secured Saturday with a technical knockout of Miguel Cotto that ended when the referee waved the fight over in the 12th and final round.

When it finished, Pacquiao had won his seventh title in seven weight divisions, a first in boxing history. Cotto exited the MGM Grand Garden Arena with white shorts long stained red. His wife and son had left their seats three rounds earlier, so bloody was the beating.

“He hit harder than we expected,” Joe Santiago, Cotto’s trainer, said. “He was stronger than we expected. Manny broke him down.”

Afterward, fans here chanted, “We want Floyd,” clamoring for Floyd Mayweather Jr. to be Pacquiao’s next opponent. Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s trainer, seconded their wishes. When asked whom he wanted next, Roach did not hesitate. Mayweather, he answered.

Roach said the fight should have been stopped earlier, with Cotto intent on shying away from contact starting in Round 10.

Cotto maintained that it had been his decision to push forward. He said this tearfully from a corner, where his mother consoled his battered body and kissed his bloody face. He later went to a local hospital for tests, his face bruised and swollen.

“I didn’t know where the punches were coming from,” Cotto said. “And I didn’t protect myself from his punches.”

The brutal beating continued Pacquiao’s progression, adding to a résumé that must now be weighed against the best in boxing history.

By the third round, Cotto (34-2) had been knocked down, his nose bloodied, his corner quieted. Here was Pacquiao (50-3-2), the savage, speedy southpaw, deconstructing yet another formidable opponent.

Cotto kept smacking Pacquiao in the thighs, trying to slow him down. It proved futile. In the fourth round, Pacquiao landed a powerful left hand — half uppercut, half hook — and Cotto’s face went backward, twisted in a grimace, as he fell to the canvas once again.

In the sixth round, Pacquiao busted Cotto’s bottom lip open, then took a shot from Cotto as the round ended. But Pacquiao sauntered back to his corner, a smile stretched wide across his face. He dominated from that point on.

Roach said that they had fought Cotto’s fight too often in the early going, that they had stayed on the ropes too long. Even then, Pacquiao’s speed proved overwhelming.

“The key to this victory was staying disciplined,” Roach said. “We didn’t panic in the ring.”

As the fight wore on, Cotto’s left eye kept swelling, until it looked as if a golf ball was attached. Pacquiao landed punches with both hands: jabs, hooks, upper cuts, a punishing variety.

Cotto never quit, but he made a habit of dancing backward. In the ninth round, Pacquiao backed his opponent into the ropes, again and again, until he had rendered Cotto’s face a bloody mess.

Pacquiao has continued to move up in weight, still beating formidable fighters, winning as easily at 112 pounds as at 145. Before Saturday, he had earned six titles in six weight divisions, forcing Oscar De La Hoya into retirement and knocking out Ricky Hatton with a savage blow rarely delivered by a man his size.

Pacquiao collected belts, from lightweight to now welterweight and every belt in between. He entered Henry Armstrong territory, earning comparisons to the boxer who won three titles in 10 months in 1937, when there were only eight divisions.

Along the way, Pacquiao became an international superstar, a singer with albums that twice went platinum, an actor with so much money he made his own movies.

As this fight, the toughest of his career, crept closer, celebrities picked Pacquiao to win. Everyone from Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton to Sylvester Stallone — Rocky himself — predicted victory.

Proof of Pacquiao’s own confidence came from the concert he scheduled at Mandalay Bay, a full eight songs to be sung less than two hours after the fight concluded.

But Cotto was no ordinary opponent. His only loss in 35 fights came against Antonio Margarito, an opponent later caught with doctored gloves.

After that fight, Cotto covered his body in tattoos and claimed he had moved on. But the question lingered: Had Margarito permanently softened Cotto?

Roach, who counts Pacquiao as the 24th world champion he has trained, sure thought so. When Roach prepares Pacquiao to fight, he looks for the habits of opponents, not their weaknesses. Weaknesses can be fixed, Roach reasoned, but habits remain.

He knew Pacquiao would be giving away at least 10 pounds by fight time, giving away an inch and a half in height and two inches in length. But when Roach watched Cotto, who had the inexperienced trainer Joe Santiago in his corner, he saw bad habits, and he devised a plan for Pacquiao to pound Cotto’s body.

Santiago worked only his second fight as Cotto’s lead trainer Saturday, but all week he had pointed to his 18 years spent learning inside boxing gyms in Puerto Rico as reason to believe. On Friday, at a weigh-in hosted by the actor Jeremy Piven, Santiago marched right up to Roach, noted that Cotto had made the 145-pound weight stipulated in his contract, then called Roach a word that essentially means jerk.

Roach, the only man awarded trainer of the year three times, kept talking. He said that if Pacquiao hurt Cotto early, he would knock the Puerto Rican out. He said that Pacquiao would not lose a single round.

Pacquiao did not lose many rounds, even going on the defensive in the fourth and fifth, just as he had recently in training. Before the final round, Cotto asked his corner, as if he were no longer there, “One more left?”

With Pacquiao’s place in history cemented, Mayweather seems like the logical, blockbuster opponent. Pacquiao said he would not move up again in weight.

But on Saturday, that could wait. When the fight ended, Pacquiao headed to the concert, then eventually back home, to the Philippines and more than 90 million adoring fans.

This was more than just another knockout. This one was historic.

Commentary: There is only one Manny Pacquiao! He is simply the greatest fighter in the history of boxing.

Source: In Punishing Fashion, Pacquiao Wins 7th Title

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao, Yet Again, Finds A Way To Astound In Knocking Out Miguel Cotto

2009-11-15T04:04:00.000-08:00

There should be no controversy about this, and no question: Manny Pacquiao fought the best version of Miguel Cotto Saturday night, as Cotto showed by fighting on equal terms with Pacquiao for five rounds, even with a pair of knockdowns. But Pacquiao, as I expected, was the truly transcendent fighter to Cotto’s ultra-elite, and that, in the end was the difference. Pacquiao delivered a frightening beating on Cotto from the 6th round on, before the referee belatedly stepped in Pacquiao’s way in the 12th to save Cotto from nastier punishment.

Fight after fight, Pacquiao just leaves your mouth agape, making you wonder if you’ll ever see the likes of this in the boxing ring again during your lifetime. And I don’t think I’m overstating the case here — there’s nobody in the sport’s history who has moved up so vastly in weight over his career and been this powerful, this fast, this great. He is without compare. We should be getting used to him doing this kind of thing, but I’m still not.

The most remarkable thing to me was that Pacquiao took Cotto’s power extremely well, and Cotto is a very hard-hitting welterweight. Cotto showed his boxing skills early, putting his jab on Pacquiao with ease and landing flush shots on Pacquiao’s head, unlike any fight we’ve seen from Pacquiao since his rematch with Juan Manuel Marquez in early 2008. In the meantime, though, Pacquiao was standing his ground and firing back, scoring knockdowns in the 3rd and 4th, each worse than the other. It was the uppercut that hurt Cotto so badly in the 4th, a shot I thought he was wide open for, and even though he bounced back to win the 5th round, it was on pure guts. He soon began retreating and trying to counter, but Pacquiao was still having his way, and ignoring what shots Cotto landed. Pacquiao landed from every conceivable angle, and Cotto said what made this fight so difficult is he never knew where the punches were coming from. By the 10th, Cotto was just trying to survive, rather than trying to counter, and the fight really should have been stopped at the end of the 9th. Cotto running away for the next few rounds was made sense, given the damage he’d endured, but he shouldn’t have had to endure so much of it — that he was able to speaks to the kind of cojones the guy has.

I wish Pacquiao would have called out Floyd Mayweather after the fight, but Freddie Roach, his trainer, did it for him. “I want Mayweather,” he said, bluntly. I have no idea if that fight will ever happen. It’s the fight that SHOULD happen, but Mayweather, as we’ve discussed here endlessly, doesn’t seem interested in challenging himself; he wants easy money. Make no mistake: Pacquiao would challenge Mayweather like he’s never been challenged before. Pacquiao clearly can contend with real welterweights. I wonder how much money it would take for Mayweather to say, “Screw easy money, I’m cashing in here win or lose.” Because the pile of money is massive.

I’ll have more to say tomorrow, when, as usual for achievements of this scope, things will have soaked in somewhat and I can try to put it in perspective. Pacquiao was already a top-25 fighter in my book. Beating one of today’s top-5 pound-for-pound boxers, in a higher weight class, and one who wasn’t by my eye shot or weight-drained (as some feared Cotto might be)… I definitely think he cracks the top 20, maybe even the top 15, but I look at the people who didn’t crack ESPN’s top 10 a couple years ago, like a Sugar Ray Leonard, and say that’s not where Pacquiao is yet. If he beats Mayweather? Now we’re talking. Let’s hope, for our sake as fans and for the sake of the sport, we get to see it.

Commentary: Pacquiao should already crush to the top 5, not just the top 20! Name any fighter who has done what Manny Pacquiao had done. Nada! Only Manny Pacquiao was able to do it!

Source: Manny Pacquiao, Yet Again, Finds A Way To Astound In Knocking Out Miguel Cotto

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao defeats Cotto for record title

2009-11-15T03:31:00.000-08:00

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

NEW: Manny Pacquiao defeats defending champion Miguel Cotto for WBO welterweight title
Miguel Cotto had one-pound weight advantage over Pacquiao for big fight in Las Vegas
Cotto was defending WBO Welterweight title against Filipino hero Pacquiao

(CNN) -- Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao defeated defending champion Miguel Cotto on Saturday in the 12th round to claim the WBO welterweight title.

The victory extended Pacquiao's record number of weight division titles to seven, according to news services.

Cotto took a one-pound advantage over Filipino Pacquiao into the superfight in Las Vegas.

Puerto Rico's Cotto weighed in at 145 pounds in front a 5,000 strong crowd at the MGM Grand Arena, with Pacquiao tipping the scales at 144 pounds. He looked relaxed and smiled as he stripped to his boxer shorts, while Cotto looked more intense.

The fight began well for Cotto, the UK's Press Association reported, as he delivered several powerful jabs, despite Pacquiao's speed.

But Cotto found himself on the canvas in the second round after Pacquiao struck him with a flash knockdown

Pacquaio followed this in the fourth round with a right-hook left-hook combo. After this there was an almost seeming inevitability to the result, although Cotto managed to stay the course.

After the fight Pacquiao said in comments reported by PA: "I heard that he was bigger than me and stronger than me and that's why I tried to be more aggressive and fight toe to toe and try to (negate) his power.

"Our strategy for the fight was not to hurry, take our time, because we knew his strategy was that he was going to counter," Pacquiao told the agency. "We were very careful in the early rounds then I controlled the fight and tried to put him under pressure."

"We tried our best to knock him out because that's what my trainer said. I thought they were going to stop the fight in the 11th round and I was surprised he made it to the 12th round."

Saturday's match was Pacquiao's first fight since a stunning knockout of Britain's Ricky Hatton sixth months ago at the same venue.

Pacquiao, who has won 49 fights, lost three and drawn two, is being lined up for a money spinning fight with American Floyd Mayweather, but first must get past the determined Cotto, who has held a world title every year since 2004.

Pacquiao was rated as favorite by Las Vegas oddsmakers, but Cotto had just one defeat in 35 fights with 27 knockouts going into the Saturday bout.

Commentary: Now to those who still doubt Manny Pacquiao, the pride of the Philippines, what is your excuse now?

Source: Pacquiao defeats Cotto for record title

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao vs. Mayweather: Will the fight matchup push through?

2009-11-14T23:40:00.000-08:00

After the performance displayed by Manny Pacquiao, don't expect Floyd Mayweather Jr. to be calling out the name of Manny Pacquiao any time soon.

Lil' Floyd Mayweather is simply to scared to fight anybody that has the ability of beating him. In fact, he would rather retire than face Cotto or Margarito in the Welterweight division.

There are rumors that Floyd would rather have a rematch with Ricky "The Hitman" Hatton than face the Pacquaio-Cotto winner. In this case it's Manny Pacquiao who prevailed over Cotto in the just recently concluded battle between the two warriors. If this rumor is true, then this is Floyd Mayweather being Floyd Mayweather...a waste!

As for Manny, he will rest and scan the horizon for the next challenge...unlike Mayweather who would rather dock than face worthy opponents.

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao vs. Cotto Result|Manny Pacquiao won by 12th round TKO!

2009-11-14T22:53:00.000-08:00

Manny Pacquiao dominated Miguel Cotto via a 12th round TKO to snatch the WBO Welterweight belt from Miguel Angel Cotto!

The fight started competitively with Miguel Cotto fighting a very smart fight by being patient, picking his shots and fighting behind a very sharp left jab. Manny Pacquiao had problems penetrating Cotto's defense while continue to be hit by the power punches of Miguel Cotto.

However, once Manny find some openings in Cotto's defense, he started landing his very famous power combos that left Oscar Dela Hoya defenseless.

As Cotto received more punishment from Manny Pacquiao, he started back-pedaling like most of Manny Pacquiao's opponents in the past once they tasted the power of Manny Pacquiao. It got worse to the point that Cotto literally was running inside the ring like Joan Guz-run. Only this time, Cotto was running away from Manny Pacquio's power punches!

Finally, on the 12th round referee Kenny Bayless stopped the fight after Cotto refused to fight back and just kept on running inside the ring. Pacquiao won his 7th title -- the WBO Welterweight Championship Belt -- in as much as 7 weigth division. A feat that no boxer in the entire history of boxing was able to do.

Truly Manny Pacquiao's performance is amazing, and he will go down to the annals of boxing as the greatest boxer in the world and in the entire history of boxing!

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny

Who Wins the Pacquiao-Cotto Welterweight Boxing Fight ?

2009-11-14T22:23:00.000-08:00

For those who were not able to see the fight live in PPV and online live down streams, Manny Pacquiao of the Philippines wins over Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico for the WVO Welterweight Championship in the World.

The boxing fight started very competitively with Miguel Cotto fighting behind his sharp left jab that put down Joshua Clottey. He also used power combinations to put Manny Pacquiao at bay, and matched Manny's combination with his own. Miguel Cotto had answers to everything that Manny put on the table.

Another thing that put the first two rounds in Miguel Cotto's favor is that Cotto's defense is very very tight. Cotto indeed tried to fight a very smart fight by picking his shots and not fighting in Manny Pacquiao's pace like what Ricky Hatton did.

On the third round, Manny did a very strange thing by going against what most boxing experts suggested that Manny Pacquiao should not do -- he allowed Cotto to release his power punches on his body. At first I thought that Manny is finding the Cotto is just to much for him. What turned out to be a mistake is really a brilliant strategy.

Manny Pacquiao did what Muhammad Ali did against George Foreman and that is lie on the rope 0r the famous rope-a-doup. This strategy has two effects: (1) It gave Miguel Cotto the confidence to engage Manny Pacquiao more openly (2) It wore down Miguel Cotto. Indeed strategy is only for the most elite boxers like Manny Pacquiao and Muhammad Ali who has the superhuman ability to handle punches.

Once Miguel Cotto became overconfident Manny Pacquiao find openings in Miguel Cotto's defense allowing him to unleash his power combo's to the head and the body of Cotto. This resulted to a knockdown for Cotto on the third and sixth round until finally veteran referree Kenny Bayless decided to stop the fight because Miguel Cotto was not fighting anymore and was just contented to avoid Manny's powerful combinations.

Yes, Cotto was able to escape a knockout by running like a chicken but his stock will surely drop just like what happened to the body go Ricky Hatton after being hit by the vicious left cross of Manny Pacquiao.

Who wins the fight? Hands down Manny Pacman Pacquiao!

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao - The Only 7 Weight Division Champion in the History of Boxing

2009-11-14T22:13:00.000-08:00

Manny Pacquiao made history today by becoming the only boxer in the entire history of boxing to become a champion in 7 weight divisions!

Manny's combination of speed, power, ability to take a punch, ring intelligence, courage, determination, and team support is simply unparalleled in the history of boxing. Manny will go down in the history of boxing as the greatest boxer in the world!

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao vs. Cotto Fight News Update|Manny the New WVO Welterweight Champion of the World!

2009-11-14T21:57:00.000-08:00

Manny started the fight tentatively, while Cotto started strong and fast. This is contrary to most of the predictions by the boxing experts.

This championship fight showed two additional sides of the game of Manny Pacquiao: (1) Manny can take the punch from a legitimate Welterweight (2) Manny is strong and fast in the Welterweight.

Manny Pacquiao baited Cotto to engaged with him toe-to-toe by lying on the ropes and allowing Cotto to punch him on the body. Cotto the perennial body puncher could not resist the temptation and happily took the bait, and engage Manny.

From the third round to twelth round, Manny Pacquiao dictated the tempo of the game. He used his speed and volume punching. He also used angles and superior stamina.

Two things are clear in this fight: (1) Manny can compete in the Welterweight (2) Cotto is not as brave as hyped. Clearly the Margarito loss haunted him.

On the twelfth round, Referee Kenny Bayless has seen enough and stop the fight. Cotto quickly acknowledge the referees decision.

Manny Pacman Pacquiao is now the new WBO Welterweight Champion in the World!

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao vs. Cotto Boxing Fight News Update

2009-11-14T21:51:00.001-08:00

The fight started very competitively with Cotto matching Manny's activity. Miguel used his left jab to put Manny at bay in the earlier rounds. Miguel Cotto's defense was also very very tight. Manny had difficulty penetrating Cotto's defense. Also Cotto is fighting a very smart game, not rushing things.

But on the second round, Manny finally find some holes in Miguel Cotto's defense. But Miguel Cotto was able to release power punches to Pacquiao's body and head. What's amazing was that Pacquiao just took the power punches of Cotto and shrugged off as if it doesn't hurt him.

On the third round, Cotto was hit by Manny and went down for the first knock down of the fight.

As the game pick-up Pacquiao's speed and volume punches finally get to Cotto.

On the 9th round, Cotto tried to make a stand but again Manny Pacquiao is just too much for him. On the the 11th round, referree Kenny Bayless stopped the fight because Cotto no longer fought back.

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao vs Miguel Cotto - On the Latino Terminator and the Lefty Tornado

2009-11-14T09:59:00.000-08:00

With the biggest fight of the year looming, I called up a friend of mine for another good old-fashioned boxing chat. Here’s what followed:

AJ: Well, like I thought with the Ricky Hatton fight, if it’s going into the later rounds, something bad is happening to Manny Pacquiao. Miguel Cotto needs a certain amount of time to adapt and to read. You can stun him. I can see Manny Pacquiao definitely being able to reach him, definitely being able to stun him.

JD: Ya, it has to do with how Miguel Cotto’s initial defense is positioned. It’s that earmuff thing. He puts that right hand on the side of his face. He doesn’t hover it near his chin at all at first, and he can get caught with a fast shot through the center. That’s exactly what Carlos Quintana did, that’s exactly what Zab Judah did. I was watching the Quintana fight, and [commentator] Al Bernstein pointed out that Quintana caught Cotto cleanly with left crosses, but they didn’t hurt Cotto. That was the difference, he said. If Pacquiao cannot hurt Cotto with those same punches early, and he gives Cotto time to adjust, it’s not goin’ to be very good for him.

AJ: That’s the key right there – time to adjust. If Cotto can adjust early enough in the fight, I think he can shock Pacquiao with how good of a boxer he is. I think he showed in the Mosley fight that he’s a very good, adaptable boxer.

JD: Ya.

AJ: My other question: Is Manny Pacquiao going to be aggressive? Is he going to go on the attack? Because one thing that Cotto is pretty good at doing is countering. He might lose early rounds, but look at [the Marquez fight]. When he slows down just a little bit, suddenly those counters matter more.

JD: Ya. If you watch the Quintana fight, even though it looks like Cotto is just stalking Quintana, listen to Quintana’s corner. They say, “He’s counter-punching you, he’s counter-punching you. You have to watch out for that.” And that’s what he was doing. He was landing straight right hands, he was switching stances, he was landing left hooks. He was boxing with Quintana even though he was moving forward.

AJ: And that’s what he needs to do against Pacquiao.

JD: Originally, I picked Pacquiao by late stoppage, but I agree with what you said earlier. The later it goes in the fight…unless Cotto gets tired. But he’s only really gotten tired against Margarito, Mosley, and Clottey. And he’s now up against arguably a much smaller man than those guys. And all three of those guys are extremely durable. How durable is Pacquiao? Pacquiao was durable at 130, but post-130, he hasn’t really been hit.

AJ: Cotto might slowly figure out Pacquiao.

JD: If Pacquiao can’t hurt him, I think he loses. He’s not going to wear Cotto down. He’s not Clottey. He’s not Margarito. He’s not that big. He’s not going to wear him down, I don’t think.

AJ: That’s another thing for Cotto, too. I think a lot of these other boxers have gone into the fight thinking, “I’m bigger than Manny Pacquiao. I’m going to control him with my strength and my body attack and he’s just gonna roll over eventually because I’m so much bigger.” Cotto doesn’t do that against fighters like this. He’s a good, smart boxer.

JD: And while Cotto does not have the speed of Pacquiao, he’s very deceptive with his speed. Very good timing. His body motion seems very plodding, very steady. But then, he’ll throw punches and they’ll be quick. They’ll be fast. He’s not slow. He looks slow, but he’s not.

AJ: Another question: He has a really inexperienced trainer. Can Santiago find that fatal flaw in Pacquiao, like many have faith that Roach can find that fatal flaw in Cotto?

JD: People say that Cotto trains himself, and it does seem that way. Especially the way he adapts in fights. He says he doesn’t watch tape. He has a very old-school way of going about it. He’ll look at you for the first couple rounds, first couple minutes, and then he’ll go about his business. I think we’ll get the same Cotto we always see, not one that’s coming in with a specific strategy, whereas I imagine Pacquiao is given a specific gameplan every single time.

AJ: I do like how Cotto is preparing for Pacquiao by putting a picture of him on the heavy bag. I always wonder why more boxers don’t do that.

JD: That’s kinda Rocky-like, isn’t it?

AJ: That’s one of the highlights of Cotto’s camp (laughs). Still, I think this fight is all about timing.

JD: Timing? You mean, like, what time they’re at in the fight?

AJ: Ya. What happens quicker? Does Cotto adapt quicker, or does Pacquiao execute quicker?

JD: I still think it’s a pick ‘em fight, man. I’m leaning towards Pacquiao, because I’d like to think he can punch hard enough to where he can actually hurt Cotto. And I’d like to think he’s enough of a fighter to get the better of Cotto in exchanges. But it’s still 50/50, because I don’t know that. I don’t know how durable he is. I don’t know how hard he hits against a real welterweight. It’s up in the air. Do you still think it’s a 50/50 fight? I feel like you’re leaning more towards Pacquiao than I am.

AJ: I AM leaning more towards Pacquiao. As much as we list the flaws Pacquiao has and the advantages Cotto has, Pacquiao has shown me time and again that it makes no difference. He’s just one of those few boxers who is in a class of his own right now.

JD: He’s an anomaly.

AJ: It goes back to his handspeed. What he may lack in size, and may lack in power, his handspeed can make up for.

JD: Good closing thought. Something to think about. Hope the fight’s a good one.

CONCLUSIVE BLOWS

-Prediction? I’m tempted to say Pacquiao in the first half of the fight. But I wouldn’t put money on it…
-So Chad Dawson can’t even draw in his home state. Well, I’m out of ideas. Luckily for Dawson, Glen Johnson was out of ideas, too…
-I can see why many boxing fans are critical of David Haye and his title-winning performance against Nikolai Valuev. It sucked, aesthetically, and was not at all what Haye promised. But to condemn him because he's a likely KO victim against Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko isn't fair. EVERY heavyweight in the world is a likely KO victim against the Klitschkos. As it stands, Haye can make interesting and potentially exciting fights with numerous heavyweights. Guys like Valuev and Ruslan Chagaev can't or couldn't. Hell, even a fight like Haye-Ruiz is a more interesting match-up to me than any fight Valuev could make. Haye talks a lot of mess and deserves to be brought back down to earth. But the way I see it, arrogance doesn't change the potential for excitement that he carries around…
-Two years ago, Cotto defeated Shane Mosley and was promised a pound-for-pound king for his efforts. On Saturday, for better or worse, the Puerto Rican prince gets what’s coming to him…

Commentary: Pacquiao can win?

Source: Manny Pacquiao vs Miguel Cotto - On the Latino Terminator and the Lefty Tornado

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Video: Miguel Cotto vs Manny Pacquiao live 2009 biggest boxing fight of the year

2009-11-14T09:55:00.000-08:00

The Miguel Cotto vs Manny Pacquiao fight is slated to be one of the best boxing fights of the year. At a press conference Wednesday night in Las Vegas, both Miguel Cotto, 29 and Manny Pacquiao, 29 weighed in and talked about the fight.

The Miguel Cotto vs Manny Pacquiao fight time is scheduled for 6 pm pacific time on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. It can also be watched on PPV for $54.95 on HBO. See the link below for live stream information.

Miguel Cotto (34-1, 27 KOs) vs Manny Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs) are two of biggest-money making stars in boxing today, and they have been compared to some of the boxing greats in the 1980s, including Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler, Roberto Duran and Tommy Hearns.

A few months ago, the Mayweather-Marquez fight drew more than 1,000,000 PPV customers, and HBO believes the Miguel Cotto vs Manny Pacquiao might do even better than that.

Cotto had a catch weight Wednesday night of 145 pounds, two pounds under the welterweight limit, and he is considered the underdog in this fight, but no one knows what might happen. Cotto brings the rich Puerto Rico boxing tradition with him and a lot of determination.

"He is coming from a lower weight division and if he thinks he's going to have the same power as Miguel Cotto, his thinking is very wrong,'' Cotto said at the press conference. "I am prepared for anything he can bring me that night. He has a lot of things besides speed. I have to be prepared for all that he can show me."

A native of the Philippines, Pacquiao is the favorite in Saturday’s fight and could become the first boxer to win world titles in seven weight divisions.

Pacquiao's trainer, Freddie Roach said that he will win by a "spectacular knockout," but Pacquiao said that his objective is to do his best to uphold the pride of his country. "But if I knock him out, that will make me happy, too," he said Wednesday.

In an ESPN forum Friday, Tyler C. from Salt Lake City, Utah asked Pacquiao, “Manny, How are you going to account for Cotto's strong left hook?”

Pacquiao responded: “We've been training in the gym to overcome and counteract his strength. I think I'm the faster and quicker fighter so it all depends on who lands it fight. We have a good game plan to overcome Cotto.”

Commentary: Pacquiao beats Cotto!

Source: Video: Miguel Cotto vs Manny Pacquiao live 2009 biggest boxing fight of the year

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao-Cotto Will Determine the Direction of Boxing

2009-11-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS -- Boxing is alive and thriving, and you can see it in the nationalistic pride that enveloped Las Vegas on Friday. The Filipinos and Puerto Ricans descended on The Strip with their colorful flags and chants, and they queued in orderly groups -- Manny Pacquiao's publiko/bayan here, Miguel Cotto's publico/paisanos there -- for a raucous weigh-in Friday afternoon at the MGM Grand Garden.

So much excitement, for two 145-pound boxers standing on a scale. But Pacquiao-Cotto is the biggest thing to happen to boxing since Pacquiao-Oscar De La Hoya. Or Pacquiao-Ricky Hatton.

You get the idea.

The Pride of the Philippines (49-3-2, 37 KOs) squared off Friday against The Pride of Puerto Rico (34-1-0, 27 KOs) when they stood on stage in their skivvies, the crowd of about 6,500 -- Filipinos to the left, Puerto Ricans to the right -- roared its requisite country's approval.

Cotto's trainer Jose Santiago, who rarely speaks English, threw out a "145 pounds, a**hole!" to Pacquiao's trusted man, Freddie Roach, when Cotto stepped off the scale. Pacquiao, who is going for his unprecedented seventh world title in his seventh weight class, flexed his growing frame at 144 pounds, sending his fans into a cheering frenzy.

The drama continued. Antonio Margarito made an appearance on stage, infuriating the Puerto Ricans who revile him for destroying Cotto's face and perfect record in a controversial 11-round loss in July 2008. Then Margarito had the temerity to parade outside the Grand Garden Arena among the hundreds who were turned away from the packed weigh-in.

"Cheater!! He is a cheater!!" people screamed at a defiant Margarito, and security guards rushed over to prevent a melee from breaking out in the crush that swarmed the MGM Grand Studio Walk.

This is what makes the boxing so unique now, and helps separates it from the All-American MMA culture that has captured this country's imagination.

The pride, the pageantry, the intense rivalries, they all resonate with the pure boxing fan -- the person who will shell out $54.95 for Saturday's HBO pay-per-view show featuring the Pacquaio-Cotto 12-round welterweight main event. And the whole package goes to the hearts of the people of the Philippines and Puerto Rico, who are living vicariously through their countries' greatest athletes.

Las Vegas needs this energy. And many in boxing will grudgingly concede that the sport probably needs Pacquiao to prevail Saturday night. Because Las Vegas has become Manny's town, just as it once belonged to Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson and other actual current or former Vegas residents and boxing greats.

And ultimately, boxing needs -- and will demand -- that Pacquiao step into the ring against Mayweather.

Why would Cotto, a skilled, accomplished pure welterweight who is defending his WBO title, agree to take this fight against Pacquaio at 145 pounds, two pounds under the limit and his comfortable weight? Why would he agree to $2 million up front less than the challenger?

Bob Arum, the Top Rank promoter and mastermind who handles both fighters, has defended the honor of Cotto valiantly this week. But there is a simple truth to Cotto's presence in the ring Saturday night.

"In this fight," Arum said, "he is not the star of the show."

He is absolutely essential to the process, however.

Cotto is a brilliant fighter, and his legacy can't be tarnished by the brutal, bloody beating he sustained by the hands of Margarito 15 months ago. Who will say with certainty those hands weren't concealing illegal plaster inserts under their wraps? After all, Margarito and his trainer had their California boxing licenses revoked when inspectors found hardened plaster in his gloves before a welterweight title bout against Shane Mosley six months later.

But Cotto will need to go down Saturday night. He is a 3-to-1 underdog so that boxing can get Pacquaio-Mayweather.

HBO's PPV machine will rev up every ounce of its being for that dream mega-fight. Of course, Mayweather absolutely despises Arum, his former promoter, so there will be ample, calculated rhetoric between Top Rank, Inc. and Mayweather Promotions.
You have a perfect blending of style in this fight ... I see a very tough distance fight, and there is going to be blood.
-- Legendary Promoter Angelo Dundee

Arum has equal disdain for his former client, but even boxing's most prolific promoter has conceded this week that a Pacquaio-Mayweather event could easily surpass the record 2.44 million buys in 2007 for Mayweather-De La Hoya. So it will happen.

If Cotto wins -- and many in boxing are convinced he will beat Pacquiao by a late knockout or split decision -- Cotto-Mayweather would be an epic affair for boxing aficionados.

Then again, the world's most famous Filipino vs. the cocky, loud-talking boxing celebrity would be Dream Theater.

Where does this leave Pacquaio-Cotto, the matchup?

It will be worth every round, every minute.

Cotto, with his quiet dignity, has the edge in size and strength, and he will go to the body to punish his smaller opponent. By the time they step into the ring Saturday night, Cotto may weigh as many as 15 pounds heavier than his Filipino challenger.

Pacquiao, the smiling, generous people's champion, is renowned for his uncanny speed, a right hand that can now match his left hook, and his ring skills, all of which have been honed to precision by Roach. He is boxing's pound-for-pound champion, but Pacquiao is facing his greatest test.

"You have a perfect blending of style in this fight," legendary trainer Angelo Dundee told reporters this week. "If I ever had a fighter fighting Pacquaio, I would implement things that Cotto brings to the table.

"I see a very tough distance fight, and there is going to be blood."

Boxing will get the breath-stealing show it wants and needs, and the evolution of the sport will get a boost with what happens between Pacquiao-Cotto. Boxing is in an exciting place again. It's in the headlines, sound bites and every day conversation of sports fans.

Look to the ring Saturday night, and you will see where boxing goes from here.

Commentary: Floyd prepare to be scared...or you're scared already right. That is why you wouldn't dare fight any of the two fighters.

Source: Pacquiao-Cotto Will Determine the Direction of Boxing

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao Watch: This could end quick

2009-11-14T09:38:00.000-08:00

Both Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Angel Cotto tipped the scales well within the 145-lb contract limit Friday afternoon in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Cotto seemed physically unbothered by the weight regimen watch and looked like very ready to rumble. He was a picture of a man possessed throughout the weigh in, fixing an ominous stare at the man beside him. He has been that since he arrived in the City of Sin.

Despite being the younger and bigger man, Cotto was obviously pissed and motivated by his underdog billing.

Those miens should spell danger for Pacquiao.

Pacquiao was in his usual jovial and relaxed self. The Filipino boxing superstar was oozing with self confidence – a portrait of a man about to enjoy his date with history and destiny.

I had reserved my take on the fight until the two fighters stepped on the weighing scale.

And I tell you. Tomorrow’s biggest boxing event of the year will live up to its billing – a test and display of firepower.

And when two of boxing’s top-tier boxers collide, the MGM Grand arena will be rocking and fans all over the world will be holding their breaths every minute of the fight extravaganza.

So much has been said about each other’s strengths and weaknesses and everybody had already their piece of predictions.

But no one knows the protagonists better than themselves and their trainers.

When the two climb the ring tomorrow, it will no longer be a matter of who hits the hardest and moves the swiftest.

It will be a round by round tactical battle between two elite boxers who are first and foremost sluggers.

It will be a thinking war and each will look into ending it in the earliest round possible.

Cotto knows he cannot keep up with the frenetic pace of the energy bunny that is Pacquiao despite claims that he can solve Manny’s speed.

True Joshua Clottey and Shane Mosley had the quickness that he was able to crack.

But the speed of those two top-of-the-line opponents is a whole lot different universe from where Manny is right now.

The Puerto Rican is aware that the longer the fight wears on, the chance of Manny eking out a convincing decision victory also grows. He will have to put pressure on Manny and avoid the Filipino from building up a big lead in the early rounds. He also knows too well that the crowd will be on Manny’s side and the Filipino thrives on being able to entertain and loves to get the fans at MGM rooting for him.

Once he feels Manny could not hurt him, Cotto will abandon his notorious slow-starting self and will chase Manny into the ropes and the corners where he could unleash those punishing left hooks.

He cannot hope to outbox Manny and earn the nod of the judges.

Should that be the fight plan of Cotto, Manny will be there to uncork his smashing right hooks and thundering left straights.

On the other hand, if Cotto waits for Manny to commit a mistake, Pacquiao will break down his defense in the middle of the ring the way he surgically demolished David Diaz and made Oscar de la Hoya looked like an amateur.

Manny will not take chances and wait until the latter rounds to finish off Cotto should that be the case tomorrow.

Cotto should also not be too reliant on his left hook. Manny’s antidote to that his own right hook and left straights.

Coach Freddie Roach certainly did his assignment. He knows that when Cotto loads up to throw those left hooks, the Puerto Rican leans to his left. Think about how to solve that!

One thing is certain. He who throws the first meaningful punch for the evening will take the psychological advantage.

None of those fighters can afford to go down and hope to win the fight by the distance.

It will be a stoppage and it should come early on.

Who knocks out who, we shall know tomorrow.

Commentary: Cotto is a beast but Pacquiao is just plain special...Pacquiao beats Cotto!

Source: Pacquiao Watch: This could end quick

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Trainers scuffle at Manny Pacquiao, Miguel Cotto weigh-in

2009-11-14T09:31:00.000-08:00

Manny Pacquiao, left, of the Philippines and WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico pose during an official weigh-in at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Friday, Nov. 13, 2009. The boxers will fight at the arena on November 14.

Freddie Roach had warned Miguel Cotto’s camp all week through the media that if Cotto weighed in even slightly over the agreed-upon 145-pound weight limit for the WBO welterweight title fight on Saturday, he would pull Manny Pacquiao from the event completely.

Pacquiao weighed in first at 144 pounds, then Cotto at 145. Roach put up his hands as if he were to say he was happy with Cotto’s weight, but then got into an argument with Cotto’s trainer, Joe Santiago, after Santiago approached him and said something.

Roach then began walking toward Santiago, who pointed to the scale and yelled, “Yeah, 145 (expletive)."

The incident didn’t escalate further, however the trainers were separated by Top Rank CEO Bob Arum, who mouthed, “Just stop it,” to Roach.

“As you can see,” said actor Jeremy Piven from the stage, “there’s a lot of tension with this fight.”

The two fighters didn’t seem to notice the scuffle between their trainers, as Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KO) and Cotto (34-1, 27 KO) met centerstage in a traditional stare down for media before briefly tapping each other on the arm.

Piven then detained the fighters for a bit of colorful banter for the hundreds of fans who packed into the arena.

He even asked Pacquiao if it is his strategy to become abstinent during training for a fight.

“This is like the Jimmy Kimmel show,” Pacquiao said. “Once I start my training I have to focus on my fight so there is no more, I mean, there is no more night time.”

To Cotto, he asked if the efforts he makes to cut weight make him angry.

“I think everybody is unhappy when they can’t eat,” Cotto said. “But I’m pretty healthy. I ate well for this fight. My strength will be too much tomorrow night.”

New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs also got a turn on the microphone. He called both fighters "warriors" and said it was anyone’s guess how long the fight could last.

Retired boxer Roberto Duran, as well as Juan Manuel Lopez and Nonito Donaire were also in attendance.

Televised bouts:

WBC Continental Americas Welterweight Title fight:

Jesus Soto-Karass (24-3-3, 16 KO), 147.5 pounds vs. Alfonso Gomez (20-4-2, 10 KO) 145.5 pounds

WBA Super Welterweight Title fight:

Yuri Foreman (27-0, 8 KO), 154 pounds vs. Daniel Santos (32-3-1, 23 KO), 154 pounds

Middleweight fight:

Troy Rowland (25-2, 7 KO), 159 pounds vs. Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (40-0-1, 30 KO), 160 pounds

Commentary: Both fighters looks fit, and confident

Source: Trainers scuffle at Manny Pacquiao, Miguel Cotto weigh-in

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Cotto out to break Pacquiao

2009-11-14T09:27:00.000-08:00

Miguel Cotto is confident he will prove his doubters wrong when he defends his WBO welterweight title against pound-for-pound champion Manny Pacquiao and is determined not become another scalp on the Filipino’s rise to boxing superstardom.

Puerto Rican Cotto, 34-1 (27 KOs), will have more than his title on the line when he faces Pacquiao, 49-3-2 (37 KOs), at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Saturday. Cotto faces the man widely considered the greatest fighter on the planet after such high profile demolitions of Oscar De la Hoya and Ricky Hatton.

Cotto insists he won’t be a bit player in the Manny Pacquiao success story, but this is exactly how Pac-Man’s coach Freddie Roach sees it.

"I don't know if it is his biggest challenge," Roach said of the Cotto threat. "We have fought some great fighters like [Erik] Morales, [Juan Manuel] Marquez and Oscar De La Hoya.

"He's a very good fighter and he is champion of the world. Manny is moving up a weight class but we fought Oscar at this weight.

"I am very confident in my guy and we are 100 per cent ready for the fight. Manny, with the power he is punching with right now at this weight, I feel that he is going to knock Cotto out.

"I look forward to the win," added Roach, who has bet $1000 each on Pacquiao to win by KO in the first, ninth and tenth rounds.

Despite holding the title and facing a challenger who is coming up in weight Cotto is the underdog going into the bout. Not only is this a result of the impeccable form Pacquiao is on at the moment, but also due in part to the debilitating defeat Cotto suffered at the hands of Antonio Margarito – the only defeat of his career. However, Margarito’s victory was thrown into disrepute after the Mexican was caught and banned following the discovery of a form of plaster on his wraps in his following bout with “Sugar” Shane Mosley.

Many believe Cotto has been left damaged goods after the beating and he has failed to shake the opinion with a routine victory over Michael Jennings and a bloody war and split decision victory over Joshua Clottey. Even the 29-year-old’s promoter failed to give him credit.

"Psychologically, in this fight, he is not the star,” said Bob Arum, the president of Top Rank , who promotes both fighters.

"He knows it and I know it but Miguel Cotto, as Miguel will attest, is the biggest obstacle in Manny's path."

The scepticism has failed to have an effect on a focussed and confident Cotto: “"What they say and what they do does not concern me.

"They know what they have in front of [Pacquiao]. He better be focused on what they will have in front of him in Miguel Cotto.

"Forget about Freddie Roach. He can only train Manny the best he can. He may say and think Manny will knock me out, but at the end of the day, it is just Manny and Miguel Cotto in the ring. It's really not important to me what the boxing world wants to see.

"Once I beat Manny Pacquiao they can continue their plans and do what they want but I am not going home without winning this fight."

Commentary: Cotto there is nothing you can do against this freak of nature...

Source: Cotto out to break Pacquiao

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Team Pacquiao Sold the Philipino Legend Out

2009-11-14T09:23:00.000-08:00

I’m excited about the Manny Pacquiao-Miguel Cotto fight this Saturday and out of all the possible matchups to be made between Pacquiao, Mayweather, and Mosley, this one has the greatest potential to produce the magical fireworks of a legendary prize fight and will be well worth your pay-per-view dollars.

That being said, Team-Pacquiao made a big mistake and after all the verbal sparring between Arum and Pacquiao’s representatives and the countless meetings that took place across the world’s different time zones, Manny Pacquiao’s advisors failed him and came away with a contract that could very well negatively impact the final stages of his career.
Now the financial split has yet to be announced and even though finances are always the priority, a good manager knows that sometimes the logistics surrounding a fight can change a fighter’s career more pervasively than a purse split.

When Sugar Ray Leonard challenged Marvin Hagler in 1987, poor Marvin thought that his team had controlled the negotiations because the Marvelous one received the lion’s share of the purse split, but Leonard’s brain-trust didn’t care about the money and put more emphasis on the fight’s particulars, “Hagler gave us everything we wanted, he was just worried about the money, but we didn’t care about the money, we wanted to win the fight, so we gave him the money and he gave us everything else,” commented Leonard’s career advisor, the astute Mike Trainer.

And because Team Leonard made some financial concessions to Hagler, he got to decide on the size of the ring and the bout was sanctioned for twelve rounds instead of 15-rounds, which were still being sanctioned at the time, but were in the process of being phased out.
It’s pretty obvious that team Cotto followed a strategy similar to Mike Trainer’s and probably left some money on the table in order to put Miguel In a better position to win the fight.

So instead of haggling over an extra half-million or so, they conceded to Team Pacquiao’s financial terms and held steadfast in their demand that the bout take place at 145 pounds.

Now I know boxing fans are thinking, “What’s the big deal, it’s just a couple of pounds,” but that’s just not the case.

Most fans have never had to make weight for a sporting contest and don’t realize how difficult it is for a fighter to make weight. The whole process is a tolling and debilitating experience and in this instance, those two pounds are going to make a huge difference.

Cotto had a lot of trouble making the 140 pound limit and was visibly weakened throughout his entire campaign as the WBO 140 pound champion and regularly complained about the physical toll it took on his body and was dropped and almost stopped by Ricardo Torres and almost taken out by the ordinary DeMarcus Corley in front of his hometown fans.

Since moving up to 147 pounds in the fall of 2006 his ability to recuperate and absorb punishment has increased substantially.

Just look how his equilibrium withstood all those shots from Antonio Margarito, a huge welterweight who may have had cement in his gloves and compare that to how Cotto was shaken up by a couple of punches from the light hitting DeMarcus Corley and it’s obvious that making the junior-welterweight limit weakened Cotto.

It’s because the process of having to lose six to twelve pounds two or three days before a weigh-in is so debilitating.

Now you may think cutting weight is scientific in its methodology, but unfortunately the process of cutting weight is barbaric and has to do more with basic arithmetic than the scientific method.

Most of the weight is water-weight and fighters know all the little tricks of the weight-loss-trade.

For instance, fighters know that after a good night’s sleep you generally weigh in one pound less in the morning. They also know that you can shed two to three pounds of water weight during a hard work out.

Just for those of you who aren’t aware of the rigors of making weight let me go over a scenario that occurs regularly before almost every fight card in the world.
Let’s say a fighter has to weigh in at 140 pounds on Friday at noon and its Thursday morning and they weigh 146. They can work out at the gym and have a little bit of water. 144. Then they can go home, rest, hopefully use the bathroom, sleep, and wake up in the morning. 142 ½. Then Friday before the weigh in they can work out and maybe use the sauna and weigh 140 pounds for less than an hour and make the contracted weight.
Just try to fathom that experience for a moment and ponder the thought of having to complete two professional level workouts with very little water and hardly any food intake over a twenty-four hour period.

Now that scenario is something closer to what a mid to high level amateur experiences, some of the professionals have to make some insane sacrifices to make weight. Imagine having to go through that experience for three, four, or even five days before a fight.
The simple fact of the matter is that making weight is tough and besides getting hit, it may be the most difficult thing a fighter has to deal with.

Guys like Jake LaMotta and James Toney always had more problems with the scales than their opponents. Henry Ramirez, who had over fifty amateur fights and trains a stable of fighters which includes Chris Arreola, is well aware of the problems fighters encounter at the scales and commented, “Everybody’s body is different and everybody cuts weight differently, but it’s a trying experience.”

Now Cotto moved up 147 pound in the fall of 2006 and will probably never fight at 154 pounds, he’s just too short and probably doesn’t have the length necessary to compete at the elite level in the higher weight classes.
He’s a welterweight plain and simple and now he has to drop two extra pounds to fight the Pac-man.

Now if Cotto were really struggling to make 147 I would say those two pounds would make a difference and that losing those extra 32 ounces would negatively impact his overall strength, but he makes the welterweight limit relatively easily, I mean he’s not like Felix Trinidad at welterweight or James Toney at Middleweight, and the two pounds shouldn’t have a negative impact on his physical state and that’s a bad thing for Manny Pacquiao.

145 pounds is only two pounds below the welterweight limit. So those two pounds that were subtracted aren’t going to make much of the difference, but the four pounds had the bout been contracted at 143 pounds would have made huge difference because they would have sufficiently weakened Miguel, just like it did when he was fighting at 140 because even though it would have been three pounds north of the junior-welterweight limit, Cotto has been fighting at welterweight for the past three years and his body has matured and developed. As a result the drop to 143 pounds may have even been more debilitating than making 140 had been because he’s bigger now.

The thing is Manny Pacquiao is human. He’s only had three fights above 130 pounds and now he is facing an elite welterweight in his twenties and only received a two pound weight concession.

Oscar De La Hoya made more concessions than Cotto and he was the sport’s pre-Madonna and was in his thirties and still agreed to drop to a weight he hadn’t fought at since Bill Clinton was President.

If Pacquiao’s team of advisors had actually been capable managers, and not blow-smoke-up-your ass hanger-ons they would have demanded that Cotto reduced to 143 pounds. Those two extra-pounds would have meant at least an extra-day or two of drying out because the lower you go, the harder it gets to lose the water weight, which would have weakened him just little bit more and slowed him down just a tad bit which would have made him more susceptible to Pacquiao’s counters and power.

Besides what was Cotto going to do? Fight a rematch with Margarito or Clottey, two huge welterweights that already gave him hell and don’t bring the kind of recognition and financial compensation that a fight with Pacquiao brings.

Pacquiao’s advisors had all of the leverage and failed to make an agreement that would have leveled the playing field between Miguel and Manny. Even Freddie Roach is aware of the strength disparity between the two and that’s why throughout the early part of the negotiations he was unwavering in his desire for the bout to take place at 143 pounds.

People might think two pounds can’t make a difference, but those seven pounds Cotto added after moving up to welterweight sure did and unfortunately for Manny Pacquiao he’s the one that’s going to have to deal with the impropriety of the contract on Saturday.

Commentary: Get it on guys! I can't wait for Saturday evening...

Source: Team Pacquiao Sold the Philipino Legend Out

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Weight Over: Cotto, Pacquiao Ready To Lock And Load

2009-11-14T09:18:00.000-08:00

There was no need to pay by the pound, in the weigh-in to tomorrow night’s Vegas superfight between welterweight titlist Miguel Cotto and pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao.

Faced with the threat of having to pay a cool million for every pound over the 145 lb. catchweight limit, Cotto (34-1, 27KO) managed to keep his money in his pocket. The soft-spoken yet ferocious Puerto Rican weighed in at 145 on the nose, one pound heavier than Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37KO), who hit the scales at a career heaviest yet shredded 144 lb.

The bout tops tomorrow evening’s highly anticipated pay-per-view, which airs live from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada (Saturday, HBO PPV, 9PM ET/6PM PT, $54.95).

Despite the compromised weight limit, the fight is still billed as a welterweight affair, with Cotto’s alphabet strap on the line. The bout will be the Puerto Rican’s first in Vegas since suffering the lone defeat of his career, an 11th round stoppage at the hands of Antonio Margarito in last summer’s thriller.

Cotto has since won two straight, including a 12-round gut check against Joshua Clottey at Madison Square Garden this past June. In that fight, Cotto suffered a potentially fight-ending gash over his eye, but fought bravely for more than nine rounds, closing strong to escape with a close and debated split decision victory.

There isn’t a fighter in the sport on a greater roll than Manny Pacquiao. Amidst his current 10-fight win streak have come title wins in three separate weight classes, including his two-round destruction of Ricky Hatton this past May. The win made the insanely popular Filipino the only fighter in boxing history to capture lineal world championships in four separate weight classes.

A win on Saturday allows Pacquiao to further add to the record books, as he will become the first fighter ever to capture a major title in seven weight classes.

Three televised preliminary bouts precede the pay-per-view main event. The only other major title bout of the evening will see two-time junior middleweight champ Daniel Santos defend against unbeaten Yuri Foreman.

Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. moves up in weight, but not in competition, as he appears in the co-feature bout against Troy Rowland in a middleweight bout scheduled for ten rounds.

The one preliminary bout met with considerable anticipation is an expected welterweight shootout between former Contender star Alfonso Gomez and fringe contender Jesus Soto Karass. A regional title is at stake in their scheduled 10-round affair, though Soto Karass will have to sweat off ½ pound in order to be eligible to vie for the vacant strap. Gomez comfortably made weight, coming in at a surprisingly chiseled 145 ½ lb.

Top Rank Inc. serves as the sole promoter for the year’s most anticipated event, which saw an enormous turnout at the weigh-in, with both fighters well represented.

Commentary: When will Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. fight real live opponents?

Source: Weight Over: Cotto, Pacquiao Ready To Lock And Load

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao Landed "The Punch" And Redefined His Career

2009-11-14T09:11:00.000-08:00

If you've watched boxing for any length of time, you've seen it. Sometimes you sense it coming by the tempo and flow of the fight. And other times it strikes suddenly and explosively and without warning, the fight's over. I'm talking about the one-punch knockout that erases everything that had transpired in the fight before it landed, thus making one fighter look so superior over the other that the thought of the two of them fighting and sharing the same ring seems almost preposterous afterward.

Some of boxing’s most memorable and best one-punch knockouts start with Sugar Ray Robinson knocking out Gene Fullmer with one of the most beautiful and perfectly executed left-hooks in fistic history. Then there's Rocky Marciano's right hand in the thirteenth round of his first fight with Jersey Joe Walcott to capture the undisputed heavyweight title. How about Bob Foster's decapitating left-hook that knocked out light heavyweight champ Dick Tiger in the fourth round, or Thomas Hearns' right hand missile that knocked out the invincible Roberto Duran in the second round to retain the WBC junior middleweight title, just to name a few?

The list of history's most spectacular one-punch knockouts is way too long to include in this space. Of course Manny Pacquiao's annihilation of Ricky Hatton in the second round six months ago must be included on that list. However, Pacquiao's single punch knockout of Hatton makes another list, and it's a rather short one at that.

For starters Pacquiao's knockout punch was a hybrid overhand/left cross, which makes it rare. Only Antonio Tarver's demolition of Roy Jones in their rematch is probably a more famous left than Pacquiao's. Ironically both Pacquiao and Tarver delivered their fight ending blow in the second round.

The thing that makes Pacquiao's one punch knockout of Hatton really unique is the speed with which it shot him to rock star status. It's hard to recall many other fighters who, after landing one punch, literally transformed their careers and launched themselves to money and fame overnight.

There was David Reid, who'd lost the first two rounds to his Cuban opponent Alfredo Duvergel at the 1996 Olympics. Thirty-six seconds into the third round, Reid suddenly landed a right hand that knocked Duvergel out and earned him a gold medal. This punch can't be included, though, because it was an amateur bout. And it's not like Reid became a household name as a result of it, even though that one punch did earn him a multi-million dollar signing bonus to launch his pro career.

The closest any fighter ever came to becoming an overnight sensation based on one fight is Buster Douglas after he knocked out the then-undefeated Mike Tyson to win the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world. However, Douglas' stoppage of Tyson came late in the fight after he worked Tyson over for nine rounds and, even at that, it was the result of a multiple punch combination concluding with a right uppercut that made Mike's head look as if it were on a swivel.

The reality is Pacquiao's obliteration of Hatton is perhaps the--or at least one of the--most career transcending one-punch knockouts in history. Granted, Pacquiao and Buster Douglas can't be mentioned in the same breath as fighters, but it's not like Pacquiao was Oscar De La Hoya at the box office even after beating Oscar.

Pacquiao was no doubt among the more high profile fighters in the world after beating Juan Manuel Marquez in their rematch a little over a year and a half ago. But he still wasn’t a crossover phenomenon. And was anybody talking about and comparing him to some of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters in history after beating David Diaz and Oscar De La Hoya? No, they weren't.

The truth is Manny Pacquiao wasn't thought of as being the super-fighter he's perceived to be by some today until after he took out Ricky Hatton with "The Punch." Even after becoming only the second fighter to stop Oscar De La Hoya, there were respected fight observers who thought Pacquiao-Hatton would be competitive based on Pacquiao's previous two fights. But that all changed after scoring the most memorable knockout this decade in a big fight.

If time had frozen ten seconds before Manny knocked Hatton out, nobody would be comparing him to Sugar Ray Robinson, Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran. However, time didn't stop. Pacquiao took out Hatton with one punch, so now, on the eve before he fights Miguel Cotto, he's viewed in some factions as the equal to the above-mentioned fighters.

What if Pacquiao doesn't land "The Punch" on Floyd Mayweather and loses to him if they fight? Does that mean Floyd is really greater than Robinson, Leonard and Duran? Not a chance.

Commentary: Manny will land the punch Frank, relax, take a seat and wait...

Source: Pacquiao Landed "The Punch" And Redefined His Career

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Opinion: Miguel Cotto Must Survive Round One to Stay Safe in the Game

2009-11-14T08:57:00.000-08:00

Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao will be relentless in his quest for his place in boxing history by knocking out his opponent in round one of his Firepower match with Miguel Cotto. The Puerto Rican boxer must survive round one to stay safe in the game.
Miguel Cotto must survive the first round of his 'Firepower' match with Manny Pacquiao to stay in the game. If the Puerto Rican boxer survives the initial assault of the pound-for-pound king, he will have a good fighting chance of prolonging the fight but he must find his mark in the succeeding rounds or Pacquiao will be relentless in his pursuit of his much-desired seventh win in different weight classes.

Round one is critical in the 'Firepower' match as it will dictate the tempo of the fight. Pacquiao needs a window to pursue his ambition to get rid of the Puerto Rican boxer in the first round as predicted by his trainer. Once he sees an opening, Pacquiao is expected to throw his punches in rapid succession while keeping his distance from Cotto.

If Pacquiao fails to finish Cotto in round one, as many boxing fans believe he won't, his trainer and coach, Freddie Roach will have to activate Plan B which calls for a sustained attack on Cotto while the pound-for-pound king maintains safe distance from the Puerto Rican hard puncher.

Pacquiao is expected to dance around Cotto but will be watchful for a rare opening while Cotto is busy with his defences from the lightning speed of Pacquiao.

Pacquiao's fight plan calls for him to stay in the middle of the ring and avoid being trapped in the rope and corners of the ring. Cotto is expected to throw his dynamite power punch once he sees his target at close range. His much talked about power will send Pacquiao rolling on the canvas once he is hit by Cotto.

Round one is critical because it can make or break Pacquiao's dream of being placed in history books as the first boxer to win seven times in seven different weghts.

Pacquiao's chance of winning the fight in later rounds is lesser than a win in the first round or at least in the first four rounds of the fight while Cotto's chances are greater in the middle or later rounds.

The popular Filipino boxer will collide Saturday with WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto at the MGM Grand Garden arena in Las Vegas Nevada. Bob Arum of Top Rank Promotions is promoting the fight which will be shown on worldwide television and is available on pay-per-view.

Commentary: The writer forgot that on top of the power and speed of Manny Pacquiao, his stamina is also phenomenal...

Source: Opinion: Miguel Cotto Must Survive Round One to Stay Safe in the Game

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

News PACQUIAO - 144 LBS, COTTO - 145 LBS

2009-11-14T08:53:00.000-08:00

Six time world champion, pound-for-pound king and challenger Manny Pacquiao (L) of the Philippines came in at 144 lbs while reigning and defending WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto (R) of Puerto stepped in at exactly 145 lbs, the stipulated weight he was supposed to came in, during the official weighin moments ago at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV. Pacquiao and Cotto will bring 'Firepower' tomorrow night (Sunday morning in Manila) for the most anticipated fight of the year WBO world championship welterweight showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Commentary: Miguel Cotto doesn't look dehydrated to me. He looks big, strong, fit and defiant. Manny Pacquiao looks relax and confident. Who will win?

Source: News PACQUIAO - 144 LBS, COTTO - 145 LBS

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao hits right notes in title bid

2009-11-14T08:41:00.001-08:00

For Freddie Roach, the past few weeks have been just another crazy adventure on the Manny Pacquiao express. But the trainer of the world’s most popular, and many believe best, boxer has learnt to expect the unexpected.

Pacquiao challenges Miguel Cotto for the WBO welterweight title at the MGM Grand Garden Arena tonight, another step towards sporting immortality as he attempts to win a sixth world title in a career that began ten divisions lower at light-flyweight.

Remarkably, though, the bout is not the only thing in Pacquiao’s diary tonight.

“He’s booked a concert for after the fight at the Mandalay Bay,” Roach said. “They are paying him $100,000 [about £60,000] to play 13 songs. When I heard, I said, ‘Manny, what are you doing? This is a hard fight.’ He just said, ‘I can do both.’

“Every night, after training, he goes off to rehearsal. At least when he does his music, he’s calm, he’s relaxed and it gets his mind off the boxing.”

But Roach has become accustomed to the strange ride with Pacquiao, which includes fans thrusting babies into his arms for photos. While Pacquiao is the most famous face in the Philippines, Roach comes in third, just behind Gloria Arroyo, the country’s President.

“I never thought it would be like this,” Roach said. “I’m just about famous enough to have fun with it, but I can still go to the mall, which Manny can’t.

“He is exactly the same guy he always was. He’s got more money, but when he comes in, he’s not cocky, he works as hard as he did the day I met him.

“I tell him off all the time and people say, ‘Tell him off like that again and you’ll get fired.’ But I have to do what is best for my fighters. I’m honest with them, I’m honest with everyone in life and if they fire me, they fire me.” There seems little prospect of that happening. Pacquiao, 30, said at Wednesday’s head-to-head press conference that he had promoted Roach. “Before, I called him coach Freddie,” Pacquiao said. “Now, I call him my master.” Roach says it is an honorary title. The camp, however, has not been without problems. For tax reasons, Pacquiao began it outside the United States, in Baguio City in his homeland. But two typhoons hit the Philippines, the second dumping 28in of rain on Baguio — almost 5,000ft above sea level — creating a natural disaster.

For Pacquiao, it meant that he could not do his roadwork, forcing him to do lengths of a pool, even though he can barely swim. The camp moved to Manila, but things got worse.

“Baguio for the first weeks was no problem, Manila for the four days sucked,” Roach said. “His focus wasn’t there because everyone wanted to pull him this way and that.”

At last night’s weigh-in, Pacquiao was one pound lighter than Cotto. The Filipino tipped the scales at 10st 4lb, with Cotto right on the contracted weight at 10st 5lb.

Some believe that the bout could become the biggest pay-per-view boxing event in history in the US, challenging the 2007 Floyd Mayweather Jr-Oscar De La Hoya contest, which is remarkable considering that the boxers come from the Philippines and Puerto Rico and neither speaks English as his first language.

After the boxing and singing, Pacquiao appears as a masked superhero in Wapakman, a film released in his homeland this month, wearing a red spandex suit. “That suit is really funny,” Roach said. “With all that money spent, they should have got him a better suit.”

Commentary: Freddie Roach is Master Yoda and Manny Pacquiao is Luke Skywalker. Who is the Star Wars character that best fit Cotto?

Source: Manny Pacquiao hits right notes in title bid

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao vs Miguel Cotto: Unstoppable Force meets Immovable Object

2009-11-14T08:30:00.000-08:00

So Manny Pacquiao is going to fight who I believe to be the #1 Welterweight in the world Miguel Cotto on Saturday. This must be what happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object. I have heard many different scenarios play out and they are all pretty much the same “Pac is too fast” or “Cotto is too strong”, but in my humble opinion skill, adversity & experience will be the deciding factor in this fight. When I look at each fighters resume leading up to now I can’t help but look at each of their last opponents and draw a comparative analysis from what I observed within those fights. Going back numerous fights in the past really doesn’t help in shedding any light on this particular upcoming bout.

Lets start with the Pound for Pound #1 Fighter in the world Manny Pacquiao. After watching Pacquiao-Hatton again I pretty much reassured myself that Pacquiao is very fast with his footwork and his hand speed. I for one did not expect The Pac Man to KO Hatton in 2 rounds, nor did I expect Hatton to bull rush the much better technical fighter in Pacquiao. All it took was one left hand to send the beloved Ricky Hatton crumbling to the ground like a house of cards. It was over before you could get through the entire rendition of “There’s Only One Ricky Hatton”. It is hard to judge the level that Manny is at now or was at when he fought Hatton because that fight wasn’t competitive by any stretch of the imagination. It was as we say in Los Angeles “Just Manny being Manny”

Now on to Mr. Cotto, just recently I revisited the Cotto-Clottey fight again (I had Clottey winning), but one thing that stood out to me was how tight Clottey’s defense was. Cotto was unable to penetrate his defense which might be his problem with Mayweather if they ever decide to fight. However with that being said, Cotto had a huge cut over his eye and still was aggressive coming forward, throwing combinations, utilizing both left & right hands and landing very explosive body punches throughout the fight. Cotto will undoubtedly be the stronger of the 2 fighters come Saturday night, can the Pac Man handle being hit by a stronger fighter? I believe the reason people say Cotto doesn’t look the same as he did prior to the Margarito fight was because of the match up that he was presented with. Manny Pacquiao was sitting ringside and was probably thinking “Well if Joshua Clottey can hit Cotto, then I should be able to hit Cotto”. One problem with this is that Manny doesnt have the nearly the defense that Clottey has and leaves himself very open for counter punches, whether Cotto can exploit this remains to be seen.

My Prediction is that Manny will want to make this a fast paced fight and will try to bait Cotto into having this kind of fight. Manny might be faster than Cotto initially for the first few rounds but I don’t believe this will change Cotto’s strategy and he will box Pacquiao not slug or brawl with him. Pacquiao’s last 3 opponents never actually “boxed” him, the last opponent to do so was Juan Manuel Marquez and we know how Manny struggled with that “boxer”. I believe Cotto will be patient and will walk the smaller Pac Man down pounding him with hard shots to the head and body eventually slowing Manny down and putting a stop to the unstoppable force known as Manny Pacquiao. Cotto by KO in round 9

Commentary: Let see if Cotto really is immovable...Pacquiao beats Cotto!

Source: Manny Pacquiao vs Miguel Cotto: Unstoppable Force meets Immovable Object

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao fights for place in history

2009-11-14T08:09:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS -- Manny Pacquiao was just 16 years old, a frail 106-pounder, when he turned pro in obscurity in the Philippines and won a long-forgotten four-round decision against Edmundo Enting Ignacio in 1995.

Who would have believed that 14 years later Pacquiao would have grown into a rock-solid man some 40 pounds heavier and become a worldwide star, the national icon of his beloved country and on the verge of one of the most historic accomplishments in boxing history?

Six Pack

Manny Pacquiao goes for a world title in a record-breaking seventh weight division on Saturday night against welterweight titlist Miguel Cotto. A look at Pacquiao's six division championships:

Date	Weight limit	Opponent	Outcome
Dec. 4, 1998	112 pounds	Chatchai Sasakul	KO8
June 23, 2001	122 pounds	Lehlo Ledwaba	TKO6
Nov. 15, 2003	126 pounds	Marco Antonio Barrera	TKO11
March 15, 2008	130 pounds	Juan Manuel Marquez	W12
June 28, 2008	135 pounds	David Diaz	TKO9
May 2, 2009	140 pounds	Ricky Hatton	KO2

That would be winning a record seven world titles in seven divisions from 112 pounds to 147 pounds, which he can do by defeating welterweight titlist Miguel Cotto on Saturday night (9 ET, HBO PPV, $54.95) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in the year's biggest fight.

"This fight is about history," Pacquiao said. "It's exciting to think I can be the first person to win seven world titles in seven different weight divisions. What makes it even more special is that it would be a Filipino to do it.

"If I do it, 30 years from now they won't forget my name. Manny Pacquiao will still be there."

In May, the pound-for-pound king scored a titanic second-round knockout of England's Ricky Hatton to capture the lineal junior welterweight championship. The victory made Pacquiao a six-division titleholder, tying the record set by Oscar De La Hoya, who won belts from 130 pounds to 160 pounds, but was pounded into retirement by Pacquiao in a December 2008 nontitle welterweight fight.

Now, Pacquiao seeks to break the tie by moving back up to welterweight (albeit at a contract weight of 145 pounds, two less than the division limit) to challenge Puerto Rico's Cotto at the MGM Grand, also the site of his wins against Hatton and De La Hoya.

"I don't necessarily count his belts, but his whole body of work as he has fought bigger and bigger guys is something truly outstanding," said Top Rank promoter Bob Arum. "I really believe it's hard to assess things while they are happening. When something is happening in real time we tend to say it's good, but not necessarily legendary or great. But I can see 20 years from now people will look back at this and say what he is doing is legendary and great."

[+] Enlarge

Gabriel Bouys/AFP/Getty ImagesManny Pacquiao has brought his devastating punching power with him as he's moved up in weight.

It would be a mind-boggling accomplishment for a man whose first title came in the 112-pound flyweight division to also win a welterweight title.

But that is what Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs) stands on the brink of doing.

"First it is a very big honor for me and for the people in my country and I am honored to be fighting for another world championship," Pacquiao said. "That is why I am very hungry for doing this fight because it is the first time in the history of boxing to win a title in seven different weight divisions."

Cotto, who has won titles at welterweight and junior welterweight, has no intention of becoming No. 7 on Pacquiao's list of title victims.

"If he thinks he is going to win seven titles in seven weight divisions now, he has picked the wrong moment, the wrong fighter and the wrong opponent," Cotto said sternly. "If he thinks he is going to win the seventh title against Miguel Cotto, he is very wrong."

Arum, trying to walk the fine line of neutrality because he promotes Pacquiao and Cotto, understands the historic implications of Saturday's fight.

"I think that Manny has already established himself as a great, Hall of Fame fighter, but if he beats Cotto he becomes a legendary fighter the same way we regard Joe Louis, Sugar Ray Robinson and Muhammad Ali," Arum said. "He becomes part of that super, super elite group."

Granted, there was a time when boxing had only eight weight classes with one champion per division, and now the sport is bloated to 17 divisions with four sanctioning organizations doling out the most recognized belts.

Fight Credential

For all the stories, podcasts, videos and news on Manny Pacquiao's showdown with Miguel Cotto in Las Vegas, visit Fight Credential. For a preview of the fight, check out 12 Rounds.

However, if it was so easy to win seven titles in that many divisions wouldn't everybody be doing it? Wouldn't somebody have already done it?

"Fighting Miguel Cotto for a seventh world title is going to be unbelievable because Manny is a throwback. He is like a Henry Armstrong type," said Freddie Roach, Pacquiao's trainer, referring to the Hall of Fame great who once simultaneously held titles in three weight divisions (when there were only eight total) more than 70 years ago. "You don't have fighters like that today that move up in weight like this to win championships in all of these different weight divisions.

"He is carrying his punch and his power with him along with his speed. He is just getting better and better in the ring. This is just one of the greatest achievements ever. He is passing people like Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearns. He is in the level of the top five fighters of all time of any era."

Pacquiao's remarkable run began in 1998, when he traveled to Thailand and knocked out flyweight champion Chatchai Sasakul in the eighth round to win his first major title, whose lineage can be traced directly back to Hall of Famer Miguel Canto.

Pacquiao, who suffered two knockout losses as a flyweight -- he claims he was weight drained going into both -- made one defense before losing his title on one of the knockouts. After that, he moved directly to the 122-pound junior featherweight division.

Given what Pacquiao has accomplished, it's not a stretch to think that had he gotten an opportunity to fight for titles at junior bantamweight (115 pounds) or bantamweight (118), we'd be talking about Pacquiao going for a title in his ninth division against Cotto.

Firepower

TV lineup for the Top Rank-promoted pay-per-view card Saturday night (9 ET, HBO PPV, $54.95) from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas:

Welterweights: Miguel Cotto (34-1, 27 KOs) vs. Manny Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs), 12 rounds, for Cotto's title

Middleweights: Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (40-0-1, 30 KOs) vs. Troy Rowland (25-2, 7 KOs), 10 rounds

Junior middleweights: Daniel Santos (32-2-1, 23 KOs) vs. Yuri Foreman (27-0, 8 KOs), 12 rounds, for Santos' title

Welterweights: Jesus Soto-Karass (24-3-3, 16 KOs) vs. Alfonso Gomez (20-4-2, 10 KOs), 10 rounds

But seven is impressive enough, said Roach, who hooked up with Pacquiao shortly before his American debut in 2001, when, as a late replacement, he upset Lehlo Ledwaba with a dominant sixth-round knockout to win a junior featherweight title, also at the MGM Grand, on a De La Hoya undercard.

"I'm very happy to be part of it," Roach said. "I was wondering where he would be or where I would be without each other. Who knows? Manny Pacquiao has been a great part of my life. It's unbelievable. He's like a throwback. He could compete in any era. He only comes along once in a lifetime. People always ask me who's the next Manny Pacquiao? I'm only going to see one of him in my life."

After four defenses, the stage was set for Pacquiao's true coming-out party in November 2003, a memorable performance in an 11th-round knockout of Marco Antonio Barrera to claim the lineal featherweight championship. Two and a half years earlier, Barrera had stunned the world with his own dominant performance against Naseem Hamed, who would have had a stranglehold on all four sanctioning organization titles if not for the politics that prevented him from holding them simultaneously. Nonetheless, Barrera was the man, who beat the man, who beat the man -- meaning the lineal champion.

Four of Pacquiao's championships -- a record -- include the lineal title: flyweight, featherweight, junior lightweight and junior welterweight.

After beating Barrera, Pacquiao eventually moved up to the 130-pound junior lightweight division, where he and Erik Morales engaged in a memorable nontitle trilogy before Pacquiao had a year for the ages in 2008.

He and Juan Manuel Marquez had fought to a controversial draw in a featherweight championship fight in 2004, in which Pacquiao entered as the lineal champion but Marquez held two alphabet belts. They met in a March 2008 rematch with Marquez's junior lightweight title at stake.

Pacquiao claimed a controversial split decision to give him title No. 5. Four months later, Pacquiao made a pit stop at lightweight and cherry-picked a 135-pound belt with a ninth-round decimation of David Diaz.

That performance gave Arum the confidence that Pacquiao could compete at even heavier weights, and Pacquiao followed with the beatdown of De La Hoya in an upset and the knockout of Hatton.

"I equate this guy with a legendary fighter like Henry Armstrong," Arum said. "I never saw Armstrong except on a couple of films, but from everything I read Armstrong was a similar kind of guy, a fast guy who could go up in weight without losing his ability. Pacquiao is somebody that I've never seen in my entire boxing career. I've never seen a fighter go up in weight the way he has and at the same time increase his punching power and get faster. Everything that conventional wisdom says you are supposed to lose as you move up in weight, he gets better.

"This son of a gun, his punch is stronger now and he is much, much faster than when he fought Erik Morales at a lighter weight."

Even Pacquiao is a bit surprised by his success navigating the various weight classes.

"Even myself, I can't believe I can fight in the 147-pound division," Pacquiao said. "I started at 106 pounds. I was 16 years old. But right now my speed is still the same, if not better, and if you have speed, you can have power."

So is there any chance that if Pacquiao beats Cotto, he would consider trying for an eighth title in the 154-pound junior middleweight division?

"No, no, no. That's it," a smiling Pacquiao said. "That's enough."

Said Roach, "I don't think so. For him to fight at 147 we have to feed him five times a day to keep the weight on him. I think this will be our final stop but you never know. If something comes at 154, maybe we'll go there."

Arum, ever the promoter, is also leaving the door open.

"If you would have told me two years ago that Pacquiao would be going in the ring with Cotto and be the favorite in the fight, I would have said you should have your head examined. If you told me three years ago that we would someday do a fight between Manny and Oscar De La Hoya, I would tell you it is absolutely absurd. So who knows?

"Maybe the Klitschkos [the heavyweight champion brothers, Wladimir and Vitali] should watch out."

Commentary: Pacquiao if a freak of nature...and Arum is very funny!

Source: Pacquiao fights for place in history

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao Interview

2009-11-14T08:05:00.000-08:00

Why is he famous?

Manny Pacquiao is the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world, but he's more than just that to his people. Back in the Philippines, the Pac Man is their Muhammad Ali. Pacquiao has won five world titles in six different weight classes and has single handedly made a graveyard of Mexican boxing legends. After destroying the likes of Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton in the last year and with another win over Miguel Cotto, Pacquiao on a collision course with Floyd Money Mayweather, which could be one of the biggest fights ever.
Quick Bio

With legendary trainer Freddie Roach in his corner, Pacquiao has become one of the most daunting fighters in the sport. He has power, he has speed and he has the smarts.

He's the most popular man in the Philippines and when he fights, so many people watch that the crime rate actually drops in the Philippines.

On Saturday, November 14th, Pacquiao will take on Miguel Cotto in what promises to be an entertaining boxing bout -- should Pacquiao triumph he will become the only fighter in history to land titles in seven different weight divisions. The fight is fittingly titled Firepower because neither fighter the Pac Man in particular hides from confrontation. Pacquiao always puts on a show.

The Interview
Q1:As you prepare for your fight with Miguel Cotto, a lot of people feel that this fight is a precursor to a bigger event next year with Floyd Mayweather Jr. How do you keep focused on what's in front of you?

I always think my opponent is preparing, especially Miguel [Cotto]. He is very strong, and he is preparing for a war with me, so I have to make sure that if I want to continue to fight at the high level that I am right now, I have to win every fight.
Q2:This will be the biggest fight of Miguel Cotto’s career, whereas for you, this will be your third blockbuster event in the last 12 months. Do you think having that type of experience will help you out?

I still think about the time when I was fighting for my first real big fight against [Marco Antonio] Barrera back in 2002. I know he can come in thinking that he has nothing to lose, and that’s why I have to be aware of that. Always be prepared.
Q3:A lot of people have opinions on Cotto’s loss to Antonio Margarito. Some people say Margarito was the better fighter, and some people say that Margarito’s win was controversial because Margarito was busted with illegal hand wraps in his next fight. What’s your opinion on his one loss?

Upon watching the fight, he started the fight very well. He just could not sustain the entire 12 rounds. I’m not going to comment on whether Margarito had loaded gloves, but I felt that Cotto had a good strategy but couldn’t maintain it through to the finish.
Q4:How valuable is it to have Freddie Roach as your trainer, a guy who has worked with so many big name boxers from Mike Tyson to Bernard Hopkins?

It’s very valuable, especially because we know each other already; we don’t have to relearn anything. When we meet in camp for the first time, for the first week, we already have a basis for our training. Freddie is the best.
Q5:Freddie has correctly predicted your last three fights and predicted a knockout of Cotto in this bout. Do you think that’s a possibility even though you are again moving up in weight?

Freddie always likes to make predictions to get people talking. As for me, I always train for 12 rounds just in case. I don’t train for three, four, one, or 10 rounds -- I have to train for 12 because you never know what will happen that night. I would rather be prepared than to say to myself at the end of 10 rounds “oh no.”
Q6:In general, what is the game plan with Cotto?

It’s always the same with every fight. I have to use my strengths, which [are] my speed, my quickness and my movements. If I do that, I really believe that I will come out on top.
Q7:This is the third or fourth fight in a row now that the media says that your opponent is “bigger and stronger” than you and again you are gaining weight. Has that affected you or your speed at all?

My speed is still there. There is no problem with that. It’s maintaining the weight -- I train heavily, and I lose so many pounds when I’m training -- I just have to maintain the weight. We do speed training, and we do power training also, so I can keep my power.
Q8:Pretty much the entire population in the Philippines watches your fight -- even the crime rate goes down during your fights. Is there a burden at all having so many people watching and holding their breaths as their hero fights?

I don’t see it as a burden; I look at it as an honor because, win or lose, as long as I put on a good show, my countrymen will be there to support me.
Q9:What type of diet do you have as a professional boxer? Is it very strict?

I eat the same foods almost every day. I have my favorites like Filipino beef broth, chicken soup with lots and lots of rice. My conditioning coach has me on protein shakes -- mostly high protein just to maintain my weight.
Q10:Take us through a typical training session -- what is involved in a Manny Pacquiao workout?

In the morning, I wake up at about 6 a.m. and I run for about 45 minutes, then more sprinting. Then I go back home, I eat and I sleep. When I wake up, I train -- I do about three hours in the gym -- then come home, eat and rest.
Q11:I noticed in the HBO 24/7 series you added some swimming to your routine for this round of training, but it didn’t look like you were enjoying it much. Is this a new wrinkle that you plan to continue with?

Never again.
Q12:Talk about training in Baguio, a small city in the Philippines, which recently was hit by a typhoon. The natural disaster has been called the worst in the Philippines since World War II and the city was under as much as 25 inches of water yet you stayed to train. Why was it important to you to train there given the potential danger?

We started camp there so number one, we should finish what we started. But also, I am used to the typhoons. I grew up in the Philippines, and I don’t think there is a problem with the typhoon. It’s normal for us.
Q13:Why did you decide to go back into politics and again run for office?

Because I know I can make a difference and help. I’ve been in their shoes and in their situation.
Q14:When did you first decide to go into boxing and why?

I was very young -- I was 12 years old, not having any money, so it was a way of life for me to support my mother and brothers and sisters.
Q15:What were some of your other jobs before you chose this as your destiny?

I was in tailoring business, I sold flowers on the street, I worked construction -- and many odd jobs.
Q16:You took your first pro fight when you were 16 years old. How much did you make in your first fight?

100 pesos, which is two dollars.

Commentary: I saw the fights of Cotto and I think this guy is a beast! Good luck Manny and may you prevail...

Source: Manny Pacquiao Interview

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny Pacquiao – Miguel Cotto: The Ultimate Guide

2009-11-14T07:37:00.000-08:00

So concludes our marathon pre-fight coverage of one of the biggest fights of 2009, Manny Pacquiao against Miguel Cotto. Don’t forget to join us for a live blog of the bout Saturday! We’ll do round-by-round coverage of all the evening’s fights, and the more people join in with their thoughts, the better it gets.

Here it is: Your links to everything you need for Saturday’s mega-fight, whether you’re a hardcore or casual boxing fan.

I want to highlight, in particular, this link to a piece from The Wall Street Journal, because it’s a major statement for a mainstream news outlet to be making, and one I think is absolutely correct — the kind of thing I keep saying over and over again: “Saturday’s bout between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto in Las Vegas should dispel the notion that boxing’s great days are over.” FINALLY: SOMEBODY GETS IT.

Yes, yes, I always start with my own writing. Did you know, by the way, I was “indispensable,” according to the aforementioned Wall Street Journal? Shucks. I explained why Manny Pacquiao-Miguel Cotto was so important to boxing. I asked, and kinda answered, the two top questions for each boxer going into this fight. After that, I gave you a two-part breakdown of each fighter’s physical and mental/tactical capabilities. I reluctantly broke down the crappy undercard. I offered my final preview and prediction.

The fight will cost you $54.95 via one of your pay-per-view channels, but there’s a way to get a $25 discount: Buy some Tecate beer, which, I have to say, isn’t a bad beer. It’s like the Mexican Budweiser, but better. Here’s how to cash in.

As always, the best way to get introduced to what kind of fighters Pacquiao and Cotto are is to watch the eight-minute highlight clips HBO has put together for each of them. If you’re anything like me, it’ll also make you pretty eager to watch this fight.

On the other hand, there are plenty of other ways to get to know the fighters, too. HBO’s YouTube page has a bunch of short clips, and HBO’s home page for the fight has biographies, segments from the acclaimed “Pacquiao/Cotto 24/7″ television series and more. You can watch the weigh-in at 6 p.m. here. It’ll be interesting to see if Cotto is drained trying to make the 145-pound limit — there are some questions whether he can — and whether Pacquiao is all the way up to 145 or comes in a tad less.

If you want to go beyond the career highlights, here is the complete record of Cotto, and here is the complete record of Pacquiao. Wikipedia also offers plenty of information about each man.

The odds started off closer, but a lot of money had come in on Pacquiao to make him a 3-1 favorite, and now things seem to have tightened up a bit more, with Pacquiao at -275. A ton of boxers have made predictions about who they think will win.

ESPN’s Fight Credential, as usual, is a real font of information about the fight, with a running “blog” and tons of features, like the video game Fight Night Round 4’s simulation of Pacquiao-Cotto. Also, Paclanders are a little goofy sometimes (like the one who called me biased against Pacquiao in the same entry I picked him to win), but Pacland itself is a truly tremendous aggregator of news about all things Pacquiao-related, which means tons and tons of articles about this fight in particular.

The MSM is loving this fight. I mentioned The New York Times’ rare coverage of boxing for this fight (and undercard, even). Numerous people have sent me the articles, which shows how much influence the Times has, plus they’re very good articles, which shows that the Times can bring something to the table nobody else can, opposite one of the Times’ explanations of why they don’t cover boxing. Now if only The Washington Post would cover boxing every now and then. USA Today, The Wall Street Journal and Los Angeles Times, the other three biggest papers in the country, are always good about covering boxing, and there’s no exception this time around. The Journal’s piece really hits the freaking spot; the quote above is how it’s described in the summary linked through Google, rather than an actual statement from the article, but the rest of the piece is really good and makes that point, too. (Of course, the Journal has been digging on boxing for a long time compared to its MSM peers, so they’ve “got” it for a while now.)

The guessing game about how many pay-per-view buys a mega-fight will do is always fun. There’s talk that this fight is tracking in the 1.4 million range, which would make it good for the second-biggest selling fight ever. I’m typically conservative about such estimates, but boxing this year has persistently exceeded my expectations, and if Pacquiao-Cotto does 1 million buys, it’ll be the first year two fights (the other was Floyd Mayweather-Juan Manuel Marquez in September) have crossed that mark since 1999. Boxing is so dead! Anyway, my original thinking was the fight would do about 1 million, but if early estimates of how it’s doing put it at 1.4, I’m going to upgrade to 1.2.

Leave your guess for the PPV buys in the comments section, and I’ll leave you with this clip of Pacquiao singing “Sometimes When We Touch” on “The Jimmy Kimmel Show,” which is always good for amusement. (After the fight, Pacquiao’s booked for his traditional singing performance.)

Commentary:

Source: Manny Pacquiao – Miguel Cotto: The Ultimate Guide

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Cotto’s Trainer Learned Outside the Ring

2009-11-14T07:19:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS — Joe Santiago is 32 years old. He has never boxed, not once, never built a champion, never trained a fighter for a bout of the magnitude that awaits him Saturday.

Santiago speaks softly, in Spanish, his baseball cap turned backward, his baby face revealed. He is not a trainer cut from the cloth of the “Rocky” movies. He lacks the facial scars, the advice delivered in gruff tones and colorful language, the ever-present stogie.

Santiago earned two degrees, a bachelor’s in physical education and a master’s in athletic training. But for those who doubt he can help Miguel Cotto defeat Manny Pacquiao in their World Boxing Organization welterweight title fight, Santiago pointed to his most important schooling — 18 years in boxing gyms in Puerto Rico, where he earned an unofficial doctorate in the sport.

“I’ve followed boxing all my life,” he said through an interpreter.

A gym opened a half-mile from his home in Caguas when Santiago was 14. This was not a gym in the typical sense. It was an old building that fit no more than 30 people. The ring sat in the backyard. Fighters jumped rope on the sidewalk out front.

Locals nicknamed it the Garage, and during off-hours they parked cars next to punching bags, removing them each morning to resume training.

Santiago loved every aspect of that gym — the sounds, the smells, the intoxicating daily rhythm. Only one problem remained: his parents refused to let him fight. His father, Jose Luis, a longtime firefighter, knew all about a profession with danger inherent in its job description.

They compromised. As long as Santiago fulfilled his school obligations, he could spend as much time at the gym as he wanted. But he would not box.

Even then, he dreamed of fights like Saturday’s — in Las Vegas, sold out, millions watching, critiquing, wondering, who is that young man in Cotto’s corner?

“This is my dream,” Santiago said. “To be in this kind of fight, the magnitude of it, the stakes.”

Santiago explained that the rich tradition of Puerto Rican boxing resulted from the abundance of gyms in the island’s south. The best fighters train all over, fight all over, and in 1993, seven years before Cotto made his name in the Olympics, he stumbled into Santiago in a chance meeting.

Cotto introduced Santiago to his uncle and trainer at the time, Evangelista Cotto, who invited Santiago to his gym. In 2002, Miguel Cotto added Santiago to his payroll, as a physical trainer and nutritionist, two jobs tailored to Santiago’s schooling.

Cotto and Santiago bonded instantly. Close in age (Cotto is three years younger), they had similar temperaments, similar tastes in music and a singular obsession — boxing. They grew to be like brothers.

Evangelista built his nephew into a champion. They won their first 32 fights and world titles in two divisions, their only loss coming under a cloud of suspicion to a boxer, Antonio Margarito, later caught with doctored gloves.

But a dispute flared in April. Cotto wanted to move his training camp to Tampa, Fla. Evangelista, who worked with other fighters, demanded that they remain in Puerto Rico.

A local newspaper, Primera Hora, reported the details: the uncle and his nephew, together for 18 years, exchanging blows; the fight continuing at Cotto’s home; the uncle lobbing a brick at his nephew; the brick shattering the window of the nephew’s Jaguar; the uncle getting fired.

Boxers routinely change trainers, and those close to Cotto had seen the dispute coming. His promoter, Bob Arum, the chairman of Top Rank Boxing, said that he had sensed tension earlier and that Santiago had become Cotto’s main confidant long before Evangelista’s dismissal.

Arum labeled the change necessary, but not everyone agrees.

“It was painful,” said Miguel Cotto Sr., whose relationship with his brother has been severed. “But my son is the athlete, and he had to make decisions and go forward.”

They decided not to seek an outside trainer, believing they already had the right one in Santiago. Since the switch, Team Cotto said, unity has increased markedly.

“There are other trainers, big-name trainers, but maybe they don’t have the relationship with their fighter that I have,” Santiago said. “All I have to do is look at his face and I know if he’s doing what he’s supposed to do or not.”

This fight is Santiago’s second as lead trainer. Should Cotto win, Santiago is likely to receive sparse praise, but he will shoulder heavy blame if Cotto loses.

Freddie Roach knows the feeling. He is Pacquiao’s trainer, and at 49 he is the only man to win trainer of the year three times. He was Santiago 20 years ago.

Roach was 27 when he worked his first championship fight for Virgil Hill. Roach even acknowledged making a rookie mistake, accidentally setting up Hill for a fierce blow on the final day of sparring. A deep cut opened atop Hill’s left eyebrow, but they covered it with makeup and everything worked out.

When Hill triumphed, Roach pronounced it the happiest day of his young life. But even now, 23 champions later, he still gets nervous.

Roach has spent the last few weeks needling Santiago, trying to climb inside the young trainer’s head. He said that Cotto runs the show. He pointed to Santiago’s inexperience. He predicted a Pacquiao knockout.

Santiago said he paid Roach no attention, believing his deep, longstanding bond with Cotto will overcome his inexperience.

“People make that critique,” Cotto Sr. said. “But if you don’t give the quote-unquote inexperienced person the opportunity, they will remain so. Joe is not inexperienced in boxing whatsoever.”

On Wednesday, at the final news conference for this fight, the little-known Santiago stepped behind the lectern. He looked younger than his 32 years. He wished Pacquiao good luck, before adding, “You’re going to need it.”

In a fight marked by an atypical lack of trash talk, Santiago had fired the salvo like a veteran.

Commentary: Look at the muscles on Cotto's back...very scary!

Source: Cotto’s Trainer Learned Outside the Ring

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacquiao-Cotto could be Hagler-Hearns repeat

2009-11-14T07:11:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS: Can boxing superstars Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Angel Cotto duplicate the three rounds of boxing mayhem the way Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns did in 1985?

That classic Hagler-Hearns shoot-out on April 15, 1985 at Caesar’s Palace here is regarded by many as the most thrilling eight minutes in fight history, with Hagler winning by a technical knockout in the third round.

Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum thinks Saturday night’s fight can recreate that Hagler-Hearns ring war because of the aggressive, attacking styles of both Pacquiao and Cotto.

“Manny and Miguel are warriors who love to fight and trade punches, and I won’t be surprised if we are treated to a ring war akin to Hagler-Hearns all over again,” said Arum, who helped promote that fight that was dubbed “The War” and voted Fight of the Year.

Arum, who promotes both Pacquiao and Cotto, surmised that when Pacquiao and Cotto begin trading punches, there might be no stopping them because of the attacking styles.

“Manny is the kind of fighter who always takes the fight to his opponents. And conventional wisdom says that Miguel is at his best when on the attack,” said Arum.

“So the fans can expect a classic clash with a lot of intense action, that’s for sure.”

HBO veteran ring commentator Larry Merchant thinks the fight could start as a “tactical battle,” with each one feeling the other out.

However, Merchant said it’s hard to predict how the fight will evolve once the proud protagonists start hitting each other.

When Hagler and Hearns met in 1985, for the undisputed middleweight title, Hagler was 30, and had lost only twice, much earlier in his career. Hearns was 26 and had been beaten just once then, stopped in the 14th round by Sugar Ray Leonard.

Hagler and Hearns took the fight personally. Weeks before the fight, Hagler even insulted Hearns by saying that Hearns should have just cut off his injured finger if he is really brave enough to enter the square ring the soonest.

Hearns injured one of his fingers during training which delayed the classic fight.

Tactical fight

Former two-time world heavyweight champion Goerge Foreman thinks Cotto will adopt a defensive strategy because of the severe beatings the Puerto Rican went through against Joshua Clottey in his most recent fight and earlier versus Mexican Antonio Margarito.

Foreman said that Cotto is smart enough not to engage a speed monster like Pacquiao in a brawl because the quicker Filipino icon can dish out punches from different angles at blinding speed.

Boxing trainer and ESPN ring commentator Teddy Atlas said that since Cotto could not match speed with Pacquiao, the Puerto Rican banger would likely time his spots, fight a tactical battle, and try to wear the Filipino out with body shots.

Atlas said he is going for Pacquiao because of his speed and confidence coming off knockout wins against bigger opponents like Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton.

Pacquiao’s strength and conditioning coach, Alex Ariza, who is predicting his client’s knockout win “within five rounds” said the Filipino is a “go get them type of fighter” who usually initiates the action in fights.”

Ariza also said quick-handed and explosive fighters like Pacquiao thrive on pressure, as the Filipino star demonstrated in dealing with a relentless attacker like Hatton. He was referring to Pacquiao’s second-round demolition of the British slugger who took the fight to Pacquiao from the opening bell.

Commentary: Round One! Ting!Ting! Down goes Cotto!

Source: Pacquiao-Cotto could be Hagler-Hearns repeat

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Pacman raring to go like a restless racehorse

2009-11-14T07:04:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS— Alex Ariza has a perfect metaphor for Manny Pacquiao.

“He’s like a horse, you know, the one that’s so restless inside the gates, moving around and can’t keep still,” the Filipino ring icon’s strength coach said on Thursday afternoon at the IBA gym here.

“Once you open that gate, boom! He’s gone.”

On the final day of Pacquiao’s training for his bout against Miguel Cotto on Saturday at the MGM Grand, Team Pacquiao ran into a familiar problem as the reigning pound-for-pound king again refused to be reined in, begging for extra work while his corner pleaded with him to stop.

Trainer Freddie Roach, resting against the edge of the canvas, could only smile as Pacquiao bargained with Ariza and assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez for an extra round of shadow boxing.

“Just one more day and you get to fight, son,” Roach said, finally convincing Pacquiao to end the training session.

“We’re ready,” Roach later declared.

Pacquiao worked four rounds with the mitts, going through the game plan with Roach and Fernandez in detailed fashion, before hitting the double-end and the speedball and skipping rope.

He cooled down with crunches, smiling through the exercise that normally draws grimaces from him.

And now it’s off to the scales.

Weight problems?

Pacquiao and Cotto will weigh in Saturday at the Garden Arena of the MGM Grand. The Filipino is expected to make the 145-pound catch weight easily, something that cannot be said—yet—of his Puerto Rican foe.

Team Pacquiao shrugged off a reported plan by Cotto’s camp to move the time of the weigh-in two hours later to give the Puerto Rican more time to shed off excess pounds.

“They can move the time all they want,” assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez said. “We’ll have no problem.”

There were reports that Cotto spent his last day of training in a gym heated to 37.8 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), something that is normally done to help a boxer shed off excess weight.

Weight a secret

Then, there was a rumor that Cotto wanted to delay the schedule of the weigh-in.

Pacquiao, who is expected to fight at 149 pounds, weighed 146 later in the evening, after he had eaten his dinner, Ariza revealed.

“We don’t foresee any problem with the weight,” Ariza said.

Cotto has been dogged the past week by questions about his weight, largely because of speculation that he was struggling to go down to 145 and also because his team was doing nothing to dispel the talk.

Phil Landman, Cotto’s conditioning coach, recently said the reigning WBO welterweight king would have no problem getting down to 145, but did not divulge Cotto’s actual weight then. In fact, Team Cotto recently issued a moratorium on replying to questions about weight.

$1M for each excess pound

On Tuesday, during MGM Grand’s formal welcome for the two boxers, Cotto was asked if he had trouble making the catch weight and if he was put on a crash diet.

“I’m eating well,” said Cotto.

But he refused to say how much he weighed.

The fight contract includes a clause that a boxer will be penalized $1 million for every pound he registers above the catch weight.

Roach has said he will pull the plug on the fight if Cotto comes in more than two pounds over 145.

“It’s in the contract,” Roach said. “If they can’t meet the weight, the fight’s off. What’s the use of a contract if we don’t follow what’s in it?”

Up to God

Pacquiao is expected to do light jogging in the morning just to make sure he is well within the weight limit for the bout.

While the Pacman enjoys the status as favorite, he continues to shy away from making predictions about the fight, saying that all he can promise is to do his best.

“The rest is up to God,” he told reporters after training.

Second fiddle

Cotto (34-1, 27 KOs) is not only the underdog in a fight where his title is on the line. He has also been forced to play second fiddle to Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KOs) in the storyline.

In fact, the eyes of the world will be riveted on television screens mainly to see if Pacquiao can achieve his mission of a seventh title in a seventh division.

“It’s really not important to me what the boxing world wants to see,” Cotto said in sit-down interview with reporters. “I am not going home without winning this fight.”

Commentary: Do you think Cotto can bring home the welterweight belt? I don't think so...what about you?

Source: Pacman raring to go like a restless racehorse

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Quotes of the Day

2009-11-14T07:01:00.000-08:00

Of course the Pacman's going to win. I mean, is there any doubt?

HILLARY CLINTON,
Secretary of State, telling students at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, that local boxing hero Manny Pacquiao will defeat Miguel Cotto in Las Vegas this weekend

Commentary: No doubt Maam!

Source: Quotes of the Day

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

‘Firepower’ clash of game plans

2009-11-14T06:56:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS— Bettors are busy trying to figure out exactly what round Manny Pacquiao will finish off Miguel Cotto on Saturday (Sunday morning in the Philippines) at the MGM Grand, where the global ring superstar tries to become the first Filipino to win world titles in seven different weight divisions.

Over at Cotto’s camp, members say it is their man who will land the killer punch and end the night early.

The thing that everybody seems to overlook? The fact that “Firepower” may end up as a battle of game plans rather than a battle of punching power.

Much-maligned Cotto trainer Joe Santiago said Thursday they will try to control the pace of the fight in an effort to neutralize Pacquiao’s advantage in speed, a strategy that runs directly against Freddie Roach’s plan to press the attack early.

“You have to decide what’s going to take place in the ring from the beginning,” Santiago told reporters. “We’re going to dictate the pace.”

Roach, on the other hand, had earlier said that Pacquiao will go after Cotto early. The Puerto Rican, who will stake his WBO welterweight crown on Saturday, has been known to both start slow and end slower.

“We’re going to show him our power in the first round,” Roach revealed. “We’re not going to give (Cotto) momentum, because if you give him that, he’ll get stronger.”

And then there’s the defensive game plan.

“Miguel has a great left hook,” said Roach. “Once he gets you on the ropes, he’s very effective. Our job is to stay away from the ropes and keep the fight in the middle of the ring.”

That, Santiago believes, is easier said than done.

“That’s what everyone says about Miguel,” Santiago told Reuters. “They all say: ‘We have to stay away from that hook and prevent it from landing.’ And he [Cotto] ends up landing it every time. It’ll land.”

Santiago also said they will try to capitalize on a Pacquiao flaw spotted while reviewing a tape of the Pacman’s fight against Juan Manuel Marquez.

But for Cotto to pounce on that flaw, pundits say, he will have to transform into a counterpuncher like the Mexican star.

And Roach doesn’t believe in fighters using an eight-week camp to unlearn what they’re comfortable with.

“You can’t change your style in eight weeks,” said Roach.

Assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez also viewed the Marquez fight and knows exactly what flaw Team Cotto was talking about.

The portly trainer would make his own contributions to the game plan every now and then, chipping in reminders about how Pacquiao should tackle Cotto during sparring.

“They said they found a weakness,” Fernandez said. “We know what that weakness is and we have developed a counter for it.”

Commentary: Who do you think has the edge in terms of game plan preparation -- the trio composed of Freddie Roach, Buboy Fernandez and Manny Pacquiao or the duo composed of Joe Santiago and Miguel Cotto?

Source: ‘Firepower’ clash of game plans

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

HBO's Jeremy Piven will emcee the Pacquiao/Cotto weigh in.

2009-11-14T06:51:00.000-08:00

Today's weigh in for Firepower will be Gold. Ari Gold.

Jeremy Piven, one of the stars of HBO's hit show Entourage, will emcee the weigh-in today at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Doors open to the arena at 1pm Pacific, with weigh-ins starting at 2:30pm. Piven, who plays cutthroat agent Ari Gold, has been a longtime boxing fan and has been featured in HBO's 24/7 Pacquiao/Cotto.

The weigh in will be streamed on HBO.com as well as most mainstream sports websites starting at 3.00pm Pacific (6:00pm Eastern). The main event will air live on ESPN's SportsCenter at 3:10pm Pacific.

Commentary: Can Cotto make the 145lbs weight limit?

Source: HBO's Jeremy Piven will emcee the Pacquiao/Cotto weigh in.

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Manny won't ease up on gym workout

2009-11-14T06:43:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS – Even on his last day at the gym, just 48 hours before his anticipated showdown with Miguel Cotto, there’s still no stopping Manny Pacquiao.

The boxer who trains like no other just wouldn’t heed orders for him to call it a day. He refused to take his gloves off when his conditioning coach tried to, and said he wanted more.

Pacquiao pounded the mitts for four rounds with Freddie Roach. It was supposed to be a light workout, one where they were supposed to just go through the motions, but to him it’s not.

Late in the fourth round, Pacquiao threw a booming right hook that sent one of the mitts flying.

“That’s it,” said Freddie, taking the other one off and tossing it toward his corner.

“I quit,” said the trainer. Then he smiled at Pacquiao.

“Sorry, Manny I have to take them (gloves) off,” said Alex Ariza, the conditioning coach, as he approached the 30-year-old superstar.

“What?” Pacquiao protested, and with a little nod, Roach gave Ariza the go-signal to let him go.

Pacquiao got off the ring, and spent some minutes with the double-end bag as Michael Jackson’s music was played inside the gym where a few dozen of his friends and supporters were allowed in.

Then he worked the speed ball and skipped ropes, after which he climbed the ring once more, shadow-boxed a little more, and did hundreds of crunches. This time, Roach was motioning to Ariza to cut it off.

“You’re done, Manny. You’re done. It’s beautiful. That’s it,” said Roach from outside of the ring.

“It’s like you’re in a horserace, and Manny is one of the horses. He keeps on moving and moving inside his gate, and when it opens, boom! and he’s gone,” said Ariza,

And when Pacquiao was all done, he tipped the scales.

A couple of his training assistants, including a new one, a hulking Brazilian with colorful tattooes on his arms all the way up to his neck and face, and looked like a wrestler, tried to shield Pacquiao from the media as he was on the scales.

“No photos, no photos,” said one.

However, there were moments when Pacquiao fooled around, and when he did, Roach could only smile.

“I like it when he does that especially since it’s our last day of training. I like it when he’s relaxed. I don’t want him getting bored,” said Roach.

Commentary: With the confidence and relax mood of Team Pacquiao one cannot help to think that Manny beats Cotto!

Source: Manny won't ease up on gym workout

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Odds still favor Pacquiao, Cotto gaining ground

2009-11-14T06:20:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS – Manny Pacquiao remains a solid 3-1 favorite over Miguel Cotto, although stakes for the reigning welterweight champion is beginning to gain grounds with the title fight just two days away.

The boxing champion from the Philippines is now -320, with a bet of $320 winning only just $100.

Cotto meanwhile, is at +240, meaning a bet of a $100 would win $240.

Upon arriving here Monday, Pacquiao was -350 and Cotto +270.

Likewise, bets on the fight not going 10 full rounds increased from -210 (from -155), while the proposition it will go 10 full rounds is at +160 (from +125).

Commentary: Bring in the money!

Source: Odds still favor Pacquiao, Cotto gaining ground

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Team Pacquiao rewards Shawn Porter handsomely for a job well done

2009-11-12T17:50:00.000-08:00

If Manny Pacquiao blows by Miguel Cotto this Saturday night, his fans will have to thank a little-known 22-year old fighter from Akron, Ohio, home of NBA superstar LeBron James. His name is Shawn Porter.

Porter has been Pacquiao's primary sparring partner throughout his preparations against Cotto. Porter is an undefeated light middleweight boxer with a record of 10-0-0 with 8KOs. Not only is Porter a "Cotto clone" as described by Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach himself, he is said to also be stronger and quicker by not only Roach, but as well as a lot of the insiders in Team Pacquiao.

Pacquiao admitted to Porter's contributions while a the Wild Card Gym in LA saying that the Ohioan has given him the best run out of all his sparring partners. Porter on the other hand relished the opportunity of being able to test his wares against the sport's number one pound-for-pound fighter and has confessed his instant love affair with Filipino boxing fans which started when he first arrived in Baguio City Philippines to help Manny in camp.

For all his troubles and help, Team Pacquiao has rewarded Porter a spot in his entourage that will walk him to the ring on November 17. The experience will not only give Porter a lot of face time with a worldwide audience, it also provides him a taste of big-time prizefighting and inspire him to reach the same levels. It is an absolute privilege to roll in Pacquiao's ring entrance crew which allegedly has turned down the likes of P Diddy to be given such an opportunity in the past. Celebs that have rolled with the Pacquiao to the ring include WWE's Batista and The Undertaker.

(Press Release Below)

Shawn Porter to Walk Pacquiao into Ring Saturday Night

Los Angeles, CA – 2008 US Olympic alternate Shawn “Showtime” Porter will lead superstar Manny Pacquiao into the ring Saturday night for his showdown with WBO Welterweight champion Miguel Cotto.

Porter, 10-0 (8 KO’s), served as Pacquiao’s primary sparring partner and played the role of Cotto during his six weeks in camp. While swapping punches with the best fighter in the world was often a grueling task, Porter was grateful for the opportunity.

“"It’s truly an honor that Team Pacquiao brought me into camp” said Porter, whose intense sparring with Pacquiao was featured on HBO’sEmmy Award winning 24/7 series. “It was a lot of fun, a great learning experience and something I will remember far beyond my years as a professional fighter.”

Following training sessions in Pacquiao’s native Philippines, fans mobbed Porter for pictures, autographs and to ask about his experience sparring with their national hero. Even though the public attention was quite unexpected, Porter is flattered with his newfound support.

“The type of recognizance I got was unbelievable.” “For people to stop me and say “hey you’re Shawn Porter” thousands of miles away from my hometown of Akron, Ohio is great.”

“The fans treated me as if they have known me for a number of years. I definitely look forward to continually building my fan base in the Philippines because their fans are incredible!”

The highly anticipated Pacquiao-Cotto “Firepower” pay per view hits airwaves at 9 pm ET and is promoted by Top Rank.

Porter’s next bout is taking place November 21 at Fitzgeralds Casino in Tunica, MS. Details will follow in the coming days.

Commentary: After all the troubles this kid been through, he deserved to be included in the exclusive ring entourage of Manny Pacquiao.

Source: Team Pacquiao rewards Shawn Porter handsomely for a job well done

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

(Comparison Pics) Miguel Cotto Looks Dehydrated, Should Pacquiao Let Cotto Weigh-In At 147?

2009-11-11T21:10:00.000-08:00

After watching the arrival of both Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto, I noticed that Cotto’s eyes were sunken, he looked surprised and wide eyed like he saw a ghost, that look is the look of a man who hasn’t eaten in days with no fluids in him. The same look was on previous Pacman victims, Oscar De La Hoya and Erik Morales. That is a key sign of dehydration.

For those of you who say 1 pound doesn’t make a difference in a fight, it sure does make a difference when a fighter is coming down from 175 + pounds. Pacman on the other hand was still fresh looking, no sign of dehydration at all, like he had a big glass of water right before his arrival. He had a big smile, probably from knowing that Cotto is killing himself to make weight. I don’t blame Manny, I would be smiling too if I had such an advantage over my opponent as well.

Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach said if Cotto comes in above the allotted weight limit he will cancel the fight and call it off, basically denying fans of a fight they wanted to see. If I were Pacman and Cotto missed weight by a few pounds and weighed in at 147 lbs, I would give that to Cotto, so I could prove myself against a fresh guy and as Manny says “make the people happy”.

Another reason why Manny should still go through with the fight if Cotto doesn’t make weight is for legacy. If he lets Cotto come in at the 147 lb welterweight limit, he could finally claim that he won a title in legitimate fashion with no catch weight or stipulations.

Judge for yourself look at the pictures below:

Miguel Cotto from his previous media day workout days before heading to Las Vegas:

Commentary: Indeed Miguel Cotto looks dehydrated...poor man. Freddie Roach and Pacquiao should never have ask Cotto to go down below 147lbs. Miguel looks ripe to be blown away by Pacquiao. It will really surprise me if Cotto can pull-out a victory over the Pacman.

Source: (Comparison Pics) Miguel Cotto Looks Dehydrated, Should Pacquiao Let Cotto Weigh-In At 147?

'Master' Freddie Roach brims with Pacquiao confidence

2009-11-11T21:04:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS –Manny Pacquiao has given his trainer, Freddie Roach, a promotion in title even before he swaps punches with Miguel I’m No Angel Cotto.

“I call him Master Roach as he is my master in boxing,” the smiling Pacman said during a press conference Wednesday at the MGM Grand Garden Hotel & Casino.

So I guess that means we can’t call the Bostonian Coach Roach any longer.

Whatever, Roach was brimming with confidence to such a level that you might label it swagger.

“’I’m going into this fight with a ton of confidence. In this fight, my guy is the puncher,” Roach said.

“Manny went six rounds on the pads with me today and he is punching harder than ever. Manny has worked his ass off for this fight.”

Roach said Pacman went into the gym at 148 pounds and exited weighing 144.

But, Roach said, Pacquiao must be fast and clever at all times.

“My plan is for Manny not to get hit. I told Manny, ‘You cannot get caught on the ropes, not even once.’ I reminded Manny that he did that one time against Oscar De La Hoya and Manny said, ‘I won’t even do that once.’”

Roach repeated his constant theme that Cotto has been sliding as a result of his brutal loss to ruggedly physical Mexican Antonio Margarito.

“Miguel quit in that fight,” Roach said. “When that happens to a fighter, well I have seen it change people’s lives.

“Whether Margarito cheated on the wraps or not, it doesn’t matter. He took a lot of punishment all the same. Sometimes you can come back from that, sometimes you can’t.

“Cotto is just too slow for Manny.”

Roach thinks the Cotto camp is studying Pacman in his two bouts against Juan Manuel Marquez, both difficult and close bouts, even though Cotto said he paid more attention to Pacquiao’s loss to Erik Morales.

“Cotto can’t turn himself into Marquez, he can’t turn himself into someone else in eight weeks, it’s just not possible.”

As a veteran Roach watcher, I have to say I’ve never see the “Master” so cocksure.

Is the great trainer overconfident or justly secure?

Tune in Saturday night to find out.

Commentary: I don't want to see another mismatch...Come on Cotto give them your firepower! And when the smokes clear, remember not to stay too long in the canvass like Ricky "The hit man" Hatton.

Source: 'Master' Freddie Roach brims with Pacquiao confidence

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

Alex Ariza dedicates "FIREPOWER" to fallen LA County Firefighter

2009-11-11T20:48:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas, Nevada -- When Alex Ariza walks alongside Manny Pacquiao into the firestorm at the MGM Grand this Saturday, Nov. 14, he will carry LA County Fire Department #16 foreman Arnie Quinones' spirit along with the team.

Arnie, whose skills and bravery helped save 72 other fellow firefighters, will always remind Alex the true meaning of friendship.

"If it wasn't for Arnie's bravery and skills creating that forest clearing casualties could have been worse in the last firefight at the Los Angeles Hills. He gave himself up for a higher purpose. I'll carry his name to the ring with me."

Alex Ariza dedicates this "FIRESTORM" to all firefighters.
Here's Alex Ariza, B.Sc. (Exercise and Nutritional Sciences).

Ariza's Training Approach.

ERRT: Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao actually lost his first title due to dehydration and cramming. Legend has it that he drank quite a bit of sports beverage when his manager went amiss. He had to run to lose 2-3 pounds in an hour. Your thoughts?

AA: I actually heard that story from Manny himself. We were watching old fight tapes and he admitted he lost to the Thai due to his carelessness.

ERRT: Does he still try to cut liquids to try to make weight or have you pretty much straightened him out?

AA: I wouldn't say straightened him out. You know, you try to just explain it to him and Manny is a pretty intelligent guy. It's indicative of his performance now that he has proper nutrition and being more consistent with it. He feels it with his energy and overall performance.

ERRT: It is evident how Manny Pacquiao benefitted from your training philosophy particularly plyometrics. Can you break it down for us?

AA: We've been doing plyometrics since the Dela Hoya fight. It's just now that people are finding out about it. We run a gambit of things---plyometrics, isometrics and ballistics training system. The goal is to maintain Manny's speed and quickness as he builds functional muscles going up in weight. It's important he stays the same, feels the same and have him react as he gains mass.

More in depth, the system we implemented is called HIIT system (high-intensity interval training) was intended to maximize recruitment of fast-twitch muscle fibers.

As Manny gained more mass, we focused on maintaining his explosiveness. My background in exercise and nutritional sciences complemented with UCLA's Teri Tom and San Diego State's Andrea Macias covered all the bases, so to speak, from caloric intake to fluid balance and metabolic monitoring.

ERRT: When did you start working with Manny?

AA: We began training together during the second Marquez fight. Manny had a slight shoulder separation and Freddie asked me if I could work with him. Having background in rehabilitation in Sacramento and considering my work with the late Diego Corrales (I think 1998-99), I felt I could help. One night, Manny expressed his concerns like chronic shin splints and shoulder tenderness. Manny felt a little worried in the later rounds of the Barrera II fight that he didn't have the 'pop' he once had.

I started asking him if we could implement new things---more on the scientific approach.

ERRT: So what's the key to improving strength and endurance? A lot of amateur and professional athletes still try to make weight by cutting water. Don't you think that age-old technique is counterproductive if not dangerous?

AA: I do think cutting water is dangerous. Here's the thing, when you're making weight by cutting water, the problem is you cannot replenish trace minerals and important electrolytes during that 24 hour period by losing lots of valuable fluids in a short amount of time. Sweating excretes bloodstream sodium, potassium etc. and they can reach dangerously low levels drying out like that. It's paramount athletes drink water or sports drinks when training. Proper nutrition is also key. As Manny said when we were in Baguio, "Treat your body like a car. Put proper fuel, oil and coolant so the engine runs smoothly."

It doesn't hurt to have a V-8 engine, as well. (LOL).

Miguel Cotto and Firepower

ERRT: How do you think Manny would fare against Miguel Cotto's vaunted left hook?

AA: I don't think Manny is really focused on avoiding the left hook. Our sparring partners were bigger, stronger and quicker, perhaps more athletic than Cotto. Manny isn't going to see anything in this fight that we haven't already seen, i.e. guys with left and right hooks, in the last five weeks of sparring. We had Shawn Porter(10W-0L,, 0D, 8KO), Jose Luis Castillo (60-9-1, 52KO), Urbano Antillon (26-1-1, 19KO), Raymundo Beltran (22-4-2, 14KO), Rashad Halloway (11-1-2, 5KO) and, of course, Freddie with the mitts. We're not that concerned over a left hook. We've logged more than 146 sparring rounds. We're ready and I don't think we're worried about anything.

ERRT: How do you see the fight with Miguel Cotto ending?

AA: Manny by knockout in less than five rounds.

Floyd "Pretty Money Boy" Mayweather, Jr.

ERRT: I think Floyd is one of the better conditioned athletes-- period. Do you think he'll beat Manny?

AA: I don't think Floyd Mayweather, Jr. can hold a candle to Manny Pacquiao's conditioning and overall ability. We had Manny Pacquiao's sparring partner, two-time opponent of Floyd's, Jose Luis Castillo blatantly saying Manny is way faster and stronger than Mayweather. I don't think Floyd is that great conditioned an athlete. I can look phenomenal against a guy that's 30 pounds lighter. So what. He beat up on a little guy who went up in weight 4 classes. That don't show me nothin'.

Family Life and Friendship

ERRT: Emblazoned on your shirt is #16 LA County Fire Department. Can you tell me about your best friend Ozzie's brother Arnie whom you grew up with?

AA: Arnie Quinones was a childhood friend. He lost his life during the last LA wildfire August 30, 2009. This fight is for Arnie and his family. His work has recently been celebrated this summer during an LA Dodgers game. Unfortunately, you know, we were doing our separate things--me with boxing and him firefighting---and sometimes you lose contact.

I've learned that you can't take friendships for granted.
My mother called me up when I was in the Philippines and told me that we have lost Arnie during the LA fires this summer. It is a tough loss.

ERRT: You sound like you have a solid upbringing. Did you grow up here in the USA?

AA: I was born in Bogota, Colombia. Our family migrated to the US East Coast when I was 13 years old. We ended up settling in California where I finished my college degree.
Let me tell you though, I want to thank my support system especially my mom.

She raised me by herself and did everything and put me through school. She has always supported me in my dream to be in this sport. She was always there for me.

Ozzie Quinones (brother of Arnie Quinones): Manny Pacquiao has a great conditioning coach and true friend in Alex. Alex has got him in tip top shape. The fight will speak volumes. Manny is going to do fine against Miguel Cotto. With Alex, Freddie, Nonoy and Buboy in the corner the Filipino fight fans have nothing to worry about.

ERRT: What with all the attention with Manny Pacquiao and your camp, how does Alex Ariza wind down? Any hobbies? (Besides doing plyometrics on someone's face like in Baguio?)

AA: (LOL). Good question. I wish I had a simple answer. We've been so busy with the absolute rocking career of Manny. The Wild Card has gotten so busy and Freddie being inundated with new fighters. I just try to help him as much as I can. And I like to be as much a part of it as well. I'm learning 'cause you can never learn everything about this business. You have to be always open to new things that are coming out working with new fighters. Learning from Manny's work ethic is something I apply teaching younger guys coming up.

ERRT: You mean you didn't pick up singing, billiards and darts lately?

AA: Unfortunately I'm a terrible singer, so no. Pool I play. Darts I tried a little bit, but when Manny can beat me with his opposite hand it's my cue not to do that.

ERRT: Lastly, can you share your memories of your trip to the Philippines? Oh yes, I was instructed by avid Pinay (Filipina) boxing fans to inquire if you were eligible.

AA: I am single. I don't have any kids or anything like that. I think it'd be cool to one day be with my future family and be a could father and say I worked with THE best fighter that walked the planet. On the flip side, if I can just work with Freddie----that would be fine as well.

I told Freddie if he's ready to retire and train fighters for fun in the Philippines that I'm going with him. As for the Manila/Baguio trip it was amazing. I can't wait to get back perhaps for Manny's birthday. It will all depend on the big boss-- Freddie.

The Filipino people were so warm and welcoming. They treated us like family. I can't say enough about them.

I hope we can make the Filipino boxing fans proud.

Commentary: Manny Pacquiao is in good....no...is in great hands with Freddie Roach, Alex Ariza, Buboy Fernandez and Noynoy Neri. I'm so touch with the personal side of Mr. Ariza and his friendship with Mr. Arnie Quinones.

Source: Alex Ariza dedicates "FIREPOWER" to fallen LA County Firefighter

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.

THE 'FIREPOWER' CHRONICLES: DAY 1 IN LAS VEGAS

2009-11-11T20:42:00.000-08:00

LAS VEGAS -- Good day, boxing fans. Malapit na malapit na ang "Firepower" boxing showdown between Pacquiao and Cotto, which is slated on November 14 and here's a short account of our trip to Vegas for the much awaited fight. Some boxing experts even claimed that this fight has completely overshadowed the recent Mayweather-Marquez fight.

We just arrived here in Vegas November 9 at about 9:30 pm. It was a very pleasant trip with 15 other vehicles including the now famous "Pacman Bus" which will be Manny Pacquiao's convoy from Los Angeles, California to Las Vegas, Nevada. The trip started at Wildcard Gym with the The Pacman riding in a Navigator car with Jinkee while I rode Rob's (Coach Freddie's assistant) hybrid car with my wife Goody and a friend Raymond Laguda, a business tycoon who hails from San Carlos City, Negros Oriental. Riding with me in the same car is Mayor Bing Leonardia. He was a very likable man and was the one requested to hold Manny's belt on entering the MGM Grand's boxing ring. We made a short stop over at a gasoline station, had dinner and went on with the trip. Everyone was happy. Manny is even game in exchanging jokes with everyone who joined the trip.

We made it to Las Vegas at 9:30 pm and there was a dinner setting which was prepared at Manny's suite in The Hotel at Mandalay Bay. We were greeted by Filipino friends who have perennially accompanied Manny through all his fights such as Gov. Chavit Singson, Gensan's foremost boxing fans Rey Golingan and Gauvain Benzonan, former basketeer Benjie Paras, Olympian boxer Onyok Velasco and Manny's buddy composer Lito Camo.

The atmosphere was highly charged with excitement. Everyone was optimistic and Coach Freddie and Manny are confident. Everyone was looking forward to a fight which will showcase the Pacman's speed, power, timing and heart. Everyone was hoping that we will leave Vegas and come home to the Philippines with the welterweight belt.

After the dinner, we all retired to our respective rooms. The next day, October 10... Manny started the day with a jog and only had light boxing exercises. Filipino boxing enthusiasts started arriving here in Vegas one by one. I we are very elated by the support shown not only by Filipinos but also by foreigners who believe that the Pacman can defeat Cotto. We are also expecting high percentage of HBO pay-per-view subscription as people all over the world really wanted to catch the explosive boxing bout as it happened, when it happened.

I believe that even though majority of the boxing experts picked Manny as the potential winner and Team Pacquiao is very optimistic on the outcome of the boxing match, prayers for Manny's victory is still needed. Cotto is not an easy foe. He holds an impressive boxing record, he has the power and he also got the backing of the entire Puerto Rico. Manny has been working so hard, he is focused and he is determined and he is in top shape and he is fast. I am optimistic that he will win this fight and when he wins... the entire Filipino nation will rejoice once more.

On another note, I had a very good conversation with the famous lawyer Atty. Romulo Macalintal over dinner at a Thai Resto in LA and I would like to say my "thank you" for spending 2 hours of conversation with me and my wife. We really appreciate your wit and wisdom especially on matters of politics. We'll be waiting for your arrival here in Vegas on Friday, Atty. Macalintal.

Ito po si Gerry Peñalosa. Abangan po ninyo ang susunod pa na mga pangyayari sa aming US "Firepower" Trip. Hanggang sa muli!

Commentary: Gerry I never thought that boxing guys can be writer. Now both you and Manny proved my impression was totally wrong.

Source: THE 'FIREPOWER' CHRONICLES: DAY 1 IN LAS VEGAS

To read more about boxing news, boxing scene, boxing tickets, boxing scores, and boxing posters fights surrounding Manny Pacman Pacquiao, and his archrivals like Juan Manuel Marquez, Floyd Mayweather, Miguel Cotto, click HERE. To know about boxing schedule of upcoming boxing, boxing matches in the sports boxing, click HERE. To know more about Pacquiao vs. Cotto boxing fight, click HERE. For more update of the possible Pacquaio vs. Mayweather boxing fight click HERE. To get exclusive news coverage of Manny Pacquaio fights and boxing, click HERE.