Tag Archives: Manny Pacquiao

Posted on 01/03/2017

Boxing Insider Notebook: Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, Lerena, Assomo, and more…
Compiled By: William Holmes

The following is the Boxing Insider notebook for the week of December 27th to January 3rd, covering the comings and goings in the sport of boxing that you might have missed.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. Las Vegas Strip Club to Open

Floyd Mayweather Jr. is scheduled to open a strip club West of the Las Vegas Strip. The club will be called Girl Collection and is on the site of the Former Sheri’s Cabaret.

Mayweather announced his intentions to open a club on INstagram in July and it is believed he is only months away from opening to the public. More information on his club’s planned opening can be found at http://m.lasvegassun.com/news/2016/dec/29/floyd-mayweather-jr-las-vegas-strip-club-to-open/

Pacquiao’s Next Fight to be Outside United States

The Manilla Times recently reported that Manny Pacquiao’s next fight will take place outside of the United States in either April or May. They also reported that a proposed fight between rising superstar Terence Crawford and Pacquiao will probably take place later this year in the United States.

Arum is quoted as stating, “There’ll be no Pacquiao-Crawford fight in the first to six months of the year, definetly….Only if the fight will be in the United States but we’re not planning the next fight in the United States so we’re not planning on Crawford now.”

Jeff Horn (16-0-1) looks like the favorite to land the next fight with Pacquiao.

World Ranked Cruiserweight Kevin Lerena Kicks Off Huge 2017

World ranked cruiserweight KEVIN “THE KO KID” LERENA, (16-1-0, 8 KO’s) kicks off his 2017 campaign towards a world title in style on Saturday, February 4 with his triumphant return to South Africa’s premier boxing venue, Emperors Palace against VIKAPITA “BEAST MASTER” MERORO, (28-5-0, 14 KO’s) of Windhoek, Namibia.

Presented by Rodney Berman’s Golden Gloves of South Africa, advance tickets for THUNDER AND LIGHTNING, may be purchased by calling 078-457-3030.

Sporting movie-star looks, the 24-year-old Lerena will be making his fourth straight appearance at Emperors Palace having thrilled the boxing crowd in his three victories in 2016.

“I can’t wait for the New Year, the path to a world title is in front of me, my promoter Rodney Berman is getting me the right fights and my world rankings will support a title shot in the future,” said Lerena following a sparring session under the watchful eye of trainer Peter Smith.

Said Berman, “Kevin has stardom written all over him, we’ve got big plans in 2017 for him. Putting him in the right fights, securing his position in the world rankings of the sanctioning bodies and working with Banner Promotions in the US to secure him a major stateside fight in the coming year.”

“We are excited to be co-promoting Kevin with Rodney Berman and Golden Gloves. Rodney has only brought us the cream of the crop, “said Artie Pelullo, President and CEO of Banner Promotions. “Kevin is a quality fighter, who has shown he has championship ability. We look forward to him getting closer to a world title opportunity with a big win on February 4.”

“I’m as excited about Kevin’s future as I’ve ever been of all the fighters I’ve worked with, cruiserweight is a very exciting division in boxing currently.”

Lerena is currently world ranked #5 by the World Boxing Organization and #11 by the World Boxing Council.
Most recently, Lerena, performing brilliantly from start to finish, winning a hard-fought ten round decision over the undefeated Micki Nielsen on October 22, 2016, earning the critically lauded Super 4 Tournament Championship.

In the first round of the Super 4 Tournament Championship, Lerena won a ten round unanimous decision over Roberto Bolonti on June 11, 2016.

Kicking off his 2016 campaign on April 24, 2016, the southpaw won the South African Cruiserweight Title with a tenth round knockout of Johnny Muller. The stoppage avenged a ten round decision loss in 2014 to Muller.

GYM Signs French Olympian Christian M’Billi Assomo

Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) is proud to announce the promotional contract signing of 2016 French Olympian Christian M’Billi Assomo to an exclusive promotional contact.He will settle in Quebec and make his professional debut there in early 2017.

Known in the ring as ”Le Solide” (The Solid), Assomo will arrive in Montreal at the beginning of January, when he will start working with world-class trainer Marc Ramsay and his outstanding team.

The spectacular 21-year-old Assomo has all the tools to achieve his goal of becoming world champion, as well as a great star in international boxing. As a Frenchman, his primary language is that spoken in Quebec, which will facilitate his adaptation and connection with the local media.

A native of Yaoundé in Cameroon, he moved at the age of seven to France, where he learned by chance to box at the Montargis Club. Assomo quickly developed into a powerful, serious tough and highly successful boxer. He became a major name on the international amateur scene in the middleweight division (165 lbs./75 kg).

A member of the French Army, Assomo had a truly impressive amateur record, capturing gold medals at the 2013 European Junior Championship, 2014 European Union Championship and European Olympic Qualification Tournament, as well as maintaining an unbeaten record (4-0) in the World Series of Boxing (WSB).

At the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Assomo defeated Ukrainian Dmytro Mytrofanov and Ecuadorian Marlon Delgado prior tolosing in a furious battle to the eventual Olympic gold medalist, Arlen Lopez, of Cuba.

“At the outset,” GYM President Yvon Michel said, “we were interested in his talent, determination and willingness to do well. There’s also his engaging personality and he has the discipline to become the best. We are very excited to work with him. I am convinced that he has the potential to become world champion.”

“I am very pleased with this agreement with the Groupe Yvon Michel,” Assomo added. “I’m sure this is the beginning of a great adventure. I look forward to my first performance. GYM knew how to attract me: by its past, by the boxers it supports, by its structure,”

“After a good career among amateurs, rich in results,” French National Boxing Team coach John Dovi explained, “it is time for Christian to go into the pro ranks. His offensive style and overall boxing skills will allow him, I am sure, to reach the highest level.”

“I started following Christian M’Billi’s amateur career two years ago and his successes on the international scene were more than impressive,” Ramsey commented. “I am very happy to associate myself with such a disciplined and talented boxer. I see a very promising future for this young man.”

“Christian M’Billi fuels such high intensity,” GYM Vice President of Operations and Recruitment Bernard Barré noted. “Fans will be in ecstasy watching such a powerful and exciting pugilist.”

Assomo, who is currently training in France, fought his last amateur bout on December 3rd. The goal is to have him boxing on February 9 at the Cabaret du Casino de Montréal.

Irvin Gonzalez Headlines January 19th Boxing Event in Worcester, Massachusetts

Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE) held a press conference yesterday to formally announce its inaugural show, “New England’s Future,” Thursday night, January 19, at the Worcester Palladium. It will mark the first professional boxing event in Worcester, located in Central Mass., in five years.
Rivera Promotions Entertainment is owned and operated by one of Worcester’s all-time greatest boxers – 3-time, 2-division world champion Jose Antonio “El Gallo” Rivera – along with his son, Anthonee “AJ” Rivera, whose collective goal is to bring boxing back to Worcester on a consistent basis, providing boxers a platform and fans a full entertainment experience.

“It’s all about the fighters,” RPE CEO Jose Antonio Rivera said. “I’m in a unique position as a promoter because of my boxing background. I hard it is for local fighters to get fights, which is why we have so many with less than six pro fights and five pro debuts fighters on this card. They are why we’re here today. I never had a press conference until I was much more established in my career. This is about them showcasing their skills.

“After my son graduated from Johnson Wales University with a degree in Sports Management, he told me he was ready to form Rivera Promotions Entertainment, as we had discussed, and promote shows. I lost a lot of money promoting a show in 2008, so I told him to put a plan together first and within a week he did. He had gotten his feet wet in the business as an intern for a boxing promoter. We went over the plan ad decided that we can do this. We’re not signing fighters, right now, we’re helping them build their careers. We do a lot of hard work behind the scenes that the public doesn’t see; the fighters work in the gym. I’m really excited about January 19th. Irvin Gonzalez is a future world champion.”

Tickets, priced at $65.00 (ringside), $45.00 (preferred seating) and $35.00 (general admission), are on sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net or the Palladium box office (general admission only), or by contacting Jose Rivera ([email protected]/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera ([email protected]/774.272.2269) of any of the fighters. A portion of the proceeds will go to Why Me & Sherry’s House.

“We appreciate the support being given to us and the fighters who give their blood, sweat and tears for you,” RPE president A.J. Rivera added. “I got into the business side of boxing as an intern working for CES. In Worcester, we have 11 active fighters, all on the rise, and to bring boxing back to Worcester is special, Teamwork makes dreams work. I also want to note that none of these fighters turned down a single opponent we offered.”

Promising junior lightweight prospect, 2015 New England Golden Gloves champion Irvin Gonzalez (4-0, 4 KOs), fighting out of Worcester, will be showcased in the 6-round main event against Mexican invader Oscar Eduardo Quezada (2-1, 1 KO).

“I’m very excited to be fighting in my hometown for the first time as a pro,” Gonzalez commented. “I fought here as an amateur but that’s not the same as fighting in the main event and my first 6-rounder. Don’t take your eyes off the ring when I fight. I’m going to be 5-0 with five knockouts on January 19th.”

In the 6-round co-feature, light heavyweight Reinaldo “Bazooka” Graceski (4-0, 2 KOs), of nearby Springfield (MA), faces Worcester’s Ralph Johnson (2-9, 1 KO).

Fighting on the undercard in 4-round bouts are Worcester junior lightweight Ranse Andino in his pro debut vs. Lowell’s (MA) Jonathan Perez (2-0-1, 2 KOs), 49-year-old Auburn (MA) junior middleweight “Irish” Chuck Shearns (2-1, 1 KO) in his retirement fight vs. Philadelphian Shavonte Dixon (0-1), pro-debuting Worcester heavyweight Felix Martinez vs. Dorchester’s (MA) Brian Richardson (0-8), Hartford’s (CT) pro-debuting light heavyweight Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera vs. Brockton’s (MA) Huston Crayton (1-8, 0 KOs), pro-debuting Southbridge (MA) boxer Wilfredo Pagan vs. Puerto Rican Alexander Picot (1-1-1, 0 KOs) at a 145-pound catchweight, pro-debuting Springfield (MA) junior featherweight Luis “Pancho” Santiago vs, Mexican Jonathan Ramos (1-2, 0 KOs), 2016 N.W. Golden Gloves champion Anthony Laureano (1-0), of East Haven (CT), vs. Boston junior welterweight Rafael Francis (0-8), Saugus (MA) light heavyweight Brandon Montella (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Mexican veteran Roberto El Viejo” Valenzuela (69-73-2, 56 KOs) and unbeaten Lawrence (MA) heavyweight Jean Pierre Augstin (7-0-1, 3 KOs) vs. TBA.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Major event sponsors include Lundgren Honda, Atty. Michael H. Erlich, Atty. Maria M. Rivera-Cotto and USANA Health Services. Other sponsors are TKO Auto Repair and Atty. Stephen W. Debs.

Posted on 05/15/2015

By Ivan G. Goldman

If you paid $100 to see the “fight of the century” on pay-per-view, you just might identify with the investor in the old Wall Street refrain who points out, “The guy who sold me the stock made money, my broker made money. . .Two out of three ain’t bad.”

The seller and the broker who profited from the transaction would of course represent the fighters, their teams, HBO, Showtime, the MGM Grand casino, and everyone else who soaked up some of the hundreds of millions spent by fans for this fight.

The record-breaking 4.4 million pay-per-view buys was, however, bad news for the sport. The event emitted a harsh ray of negative light that’s best confined under a sealed-off bushel.

Imagine how positive it might have been had Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao been more like a fight and less like a dreary parody that never seemed to get started?

Excuses came fast: Manny’s shoulder, Floyd’s brittle hands. And then we learned that the Nevada commissioners charged with making crucial pre-fight rulings were apparently all chosen by Homer Simpson.

But sports fans didn’t watch to hear excuses or accounts of the foolish choices made by officials. They wanted to see a great sporting contest, particularly after being seduced into paying a record price and watching a mediocre undercard.

And now there are suggestions of a rematch?

That would be like getting run over by a cement truck and deciding, hey, let’s try that again.

It’s a concept that works over and over again in Hollywood, which has mastered the art of extracting profits from a lousy movie and then increasing the take by reselling sequels to imbeciles who keep buying the same crap over and over again because they’re hoping that maybe the next one will be better.

And very soon we started hearing from commentators who know very little about boxing who told us that now the sport will be dead again.

Boxing is not a creature in a horror film. It’s a great, though flawed sport that was very much alive before the fight on May 2 and is alive today, though a little less steady in the legs. So no, the first fight of the century didn’t manage to kill boxing, but a Part Two could change all that.

The rematch rumor is relatively harmless, but make it reality and it could be deadly. I admit we’ve seen worse ideas. The decision to invade Iraq comes to mind.

Anyway, here’s something positive that I did take away from the fight. I wanted the better fighter to win, and as far as I can determine, that’s what happened.

But I still don’t want to hear all those Floyd toadies telling me he’s the best ever and if you don’t like the way he fights you don’t understand boxing.

I appreciate the way Floyd masters the squared circle with great athletic movement, super speed, and fantastic conditioning. But when a fighter is dominating his opponent he might make some effort at ending the contest before the twelfth round is up, which is what Floyd’s father kept telling him to do.

When Canelo Alvarez had James Kirkland in trouble last Saturday night, he didn’t need Floyd Senior to instruct him. He got Kirkland out of there. You can’t get them every time, but knockouts are very much a part of the sport. And if you don’t think so, you, Mister, don’t know much about boxing.

Pacquiao, despite what conspiracy theorists say, almost certainly did have a bum shoulder. The people who operated on him afterward weren’t just playing doctors on TV. But Manny took the money and got in the ring so Mayweather’s victory was definitely deserved.

Also, rematch-seekers, please take note that when aging athletes suffer a serious injury there’s a strong possibility it won’t heal well enough for him or her to compete again at the same level. Manny, 36, might want to consider challenging the Lakers’ Kobe Bryant, also 36, for golf or some other less taxing activity.

One of the many injuries that sidelined Bryant during the last couple of years was a torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder, precisely the same injury Team Pacquiao says Manny suffered while training for Floyd.

Small world.

—
Ivan G. Goldman’s 5th novel The Debtor Class is a ‘gripping …triumphant read,’ says Publishers Weekly. A future cult classic with ‘howlingly funny dialogue,’ says Booklist. Available now from Permanent Press wherever fine books are sold. Goldman is a New York Times best-selling author.

Posted on 05/04/2015

By Ivan G. Goldman

Perhaps it’s fitting that what was mislabeled as the “fight of the century” was already mired in controversy minutes after the scores were read Saturday night. We ended up with precisely what we couldn’t afford — a $500 million contest that was improperly handled and gave off the pungent odor of yet another scam.

The Nevada commission in charge likes to put on ultra-professional airs, but alas, its functionaries invite comparisons to Homer Simpson drinking hot coffee over the controls of a nuclear power plant.

We waited five years for this?

Manny Pacquiao apparently entered the ring to tangle with Floyd Mayweather, the most formidable fisticator in the world — with a bum shoulder – one he’d known about for weeks. Thanks to miscommunications and other downright stupidities, the Nevada commission ruled Pacquiao couldn’t get the pain-killing injection he thought had already been approved.

Seems the anti-doping agency that said the shot would be fine (he’d been taking them and dutifully reporting them during training) didn’t dot all its i’s and cross all its t’s the way the Nevada commission wanted them. Nor did the fighters’ team, which had disclosed the substances he was taking but not the injury itself – a torn rotator cuff.

All these players share blame, including Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum, who sat on the information with inscrutable calm. Note, however, that Mayweather and his team did their jobs and earned their victory. Once you enter that ring, there are no excuses.

Meanwhile the U.S. pay-per-view buys still being counted were soaring unofficially over 4 million and smashing the previous record of 2.48 million for Mayweather versus Oscar De La Hoya. Mayweather-Pacquiao became a cultural icon. If you didn’t see it live you were outside the culture, a dweeb, a dummy, a loser. At least that was the attitude before the opening bell.

What then ensued were 12 typical Mayweather rounds that featured Floyd’s super-adept use of distance, speed, and tempo against a befuddled opponent. In this case, the opponent apparently couldn’t throw his prized right hook. His right was perhaps 60 percent effective thanks to his injury, southpaw Pacquiao said afterward.

By the end of the contest plenty of purchasers wondered if it was really a good idea to down all those Margaritas before they started pressing those buttons to order a fight that, charitably speaking, might have been slightly better than average.

Isn’t it funny how you don’t see the PPV price until the last minute? It’s routinely banned from advertisements.

One can only guess at the feelings of those who’d paid hundreds of thousands for ringside seats in the scalpers bazaar. Full-fledged celebrities actually had to pay too — but only the sums printed on the tickets – a mere $10,000 trifle to Ben Affleck, Robert DeNiro, etc.

Was it worth the trip to Las Vegas? We’re unlikely to hear DeNiro’s opinion. He’s almost but not quite as reclusive as Mayweather’s hermit manager/adviser Al Haymon.

Witnesses who’ve actually spent time with DeNiro tell us he doesn’t say much because he has nothing much to say. But I digress.

State commissions tend to resent anti-doping agencies. Their very existence is proof that the commissions themselves aren’t doing all they should to prevent fighters from using banned performance-enhancing drugs.

So relations between these agencies can get downright frosty, particularly when you’re talking about the undeservedly proud Nevada commission, which, according to the California Attorney General’s Office, let Antonio Margarito slip past its inspectors with loaded wraps under his gloves when he stopped gallant Miguel Cotto.

The commission denies it. But note that it was California, not Nevada, that ultimately caught Margarito and his cheating trainer Javier Capetillo.

Pacquiao is a nice, charitable guy and likes to think of himself as fan-friendly. But a truly fan-friendly fighter would have handled this mess differently. He could, as I suggested in another article, have defied the commission, taken the injection, and let the commissioners make their own decisions. You can bet the fight would have still taken place.

But the bigger mistakes were made in the weeks leading up to the contest.

Big fights can be postponed. When George Foreman suffered a cut in training, the 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” against Muhammad Ali was postponed for a month, and that was after both camps and much of the press corps were already in place in Zaire.

Anyway, the Mayweather-Pacquiao flop has moved on to the next stage.

They’re counting the money.

—
Ivan G. Goldman’s 5th novel The Debtor Class is a ‘gripping …triumphant read,’ says Publishers Weekly. A future cult classic with ‘howlingly funny dialogue,’ says Booklist. Available now from Permanent Press wherever fine books are sold. Goldman is a New York Times best-selling author.

Posted on 05/03/2015

By David J. Kozlowski

In last night’s supposed “Fight of the Century,” Floyd Mayweather, the much-despised, arrogant, undefeated champion beat Manny Pacquiao, the much-loved and quieter fading statesman. For four years, from 2008 to 2011, Pacquiao was The Ring Magazine’s pound-for-pound champion. Mayweather was in his prime and building on his unblemished record.

Five years ago, this would have been a fight for the ages.

Instead, last night’s fight—in 2015—was billed the “Fight of the Century” despite overwhelming analysis and predictions by those “in the know” that Mayweather would win in a boring, twelve round decision. The irrational hype for this fight is caused by deep-seated problems, illustrated by the fact that three “world champion” belts were on the line in the bout.

The WBC, WBO, and WBA world champion belts were up for grabs. Pacquiao came into the fight holding one, Mayweather held two. Both were champions because of boxing’s lack of a central governing authority. Instead, boxing is run by promotional companies, each with a stable of fighters pitted against others on an ad hoc basis. There are no standardized requirements regarding number of fights per year, quality of opponent, mandatory opponents, activity schedule, or even equipment used (such as weight of gloves or size of ring).

Belts are granted by “governing (or sanctioning) bodies.” Promoters pay for eligibility of their fighters to compete for that organization’s belts. Belts can be vacated by failure to pay fees as easily as by losing a bout. Currently, ten (or more) different governing bodies are active in the sport.

This lack of a central organization means no party is looking out for the good of the sport as a whole. Unlike the MLB, NFL, NBA, or NHL, nothing in boxing is prospective; nothing is done to promote the future. Rather, the immediate payday is king.

It is in the interest of the promoters, boxers, and their camps and agents to hype upcoming fights and sell tickets (and pay-per-views) for as much as possible to as many as possible. Thus we have an $89.95 pay-per-view “Fight of the Century” that everyone who follows the sport knew would be a dud.

Bob Arum: part of the problem?

Coming into this fight with Mayweather, Pacquiao’s record since 2011 was 4-2. In those six fights, he suffered several knock downs, including one knockout by Juan Manuel Marquez. In the same stretch, Floyd was barely touched in going 6-0, the most recent five wins by decision. Floyd has perfected his dance in the square circle, and seems ageless.

All data pointed to a Mayweather victory on points. Most predicted Mayweather would fight defensively, as he’s done against almost every world-class opponent, throwing just enough straight right hands to keep Pacquiao at bay.

That is exactly the fight we saw.

Pacquiao seemed unable to pull the trigger in the early rounds. When he landed an occasional clean punch, he followed with a flurry that was mostly blocked by Mayweather. Pacquiao was unable to make Mayweather stand and fight, and Mayweather commanded the ring almost effortlessly.

The fight’s failure to deliver on its hype resulted in social media outrage among casual fans. They are disgusted that Mayweather won by “running away” for twelve rounds. They are offended that the perceived “better person” didn’t win over the “bad guy.” They feel deceived and used.

Casual fans won’t accept this disappointment. Next time, they’ll ignore the hype and not buy the fight.

Those involved decided to promote Mayweather vs. Pacquiao as the most anticipated boxing match since Ali-Frazier I. Their profits will allow them to live with their decision. But in failing on this opportunity, boxing can’t live with their decision—and it may die with it.

Feel free to contact the author on Twitter or LinkedIn.

Posted on 05/03/2015

By: William Holmes

Good vs. Evil. Southpaw vs. Orthodox. Offense vs. Defense.

There was a lot of contrasts between the two boxers involved in tonight’s main event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada that was discussed ad nauseam amongst the media and boxing fans in the days leading up to this event. But finally, fight fans get to see these two icons settle it inside the ring.

There was a red carpet set up by the organizers of tonight’s Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao Pay-Per-View event as celebrities from all over arrived to watch the mega bout of the century. As typical for big Las Vegas fights, the arena had a lot of empty seats for the undercard, but was obviously filled by the start of the main event.

The Mexican national anthem was sung first by Julio Lopez, the Filipino national anthem was performed first by the Gail and the Word Chorale and sung second while the national anthem of the United States was performed last by actor Jamie Foxx.

The Las Vegas crowd was largely in support of Manny Pacquiao who entered first and booed Floyd Mayweather Jr. as he entered the ring last.

The following is a round by round recap of tonight’s main event.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0) vs. Manny Pacquiao (57-5-2); WBC, WBA, WBO Welterweight Titles

ROUND ONE:

Mayweather’s size advantage is very noticeable when he is standing next to Pacquiao. Both fighters look to be in incredible shape. They touch gloves at the start of the round. Mayweather is pawing his jab out there and throws an early hard right hand that misses. Pacquiao throws and misses a two punch combination. Mayweather lands a check left hook on Mayweather when he comes forward. Mayweather lands two jabs on Pacquiao. Pacquiao is short with his punches. Mayweather lands a hard straight right hand on Pacquiao. Mayweather is fighting at the distance he wants to fight to be at. The crowd is loudly chanting for Pacquiao. Mayweather flicks out and misses a straight right hand. Pacquiao seems hesitant to get inside of Mayweather’s range. Mayweather lands a hard right hand on Pacquiao’s chin. Good jab by Pacquiao. Mayweather ties up with Pacquiao as soon as he gets in. Clear 10-9 Round for Mayweather.

ROUND TWO

Pacquiao looks disappointed with his first round performance in the corner. Pacquiao rushes forward with a lunging right hook but misses. Mayweather fighting moving backwards and is stuck near a croenr but lands a straight right hand. Pacquiao throws a three punch combo and Mayweather ties up immedatiely. Mayweather misses with a lead straight right hand. Mayweather backing into a corner and misses with two lead right hands. Mayweather ties up with Pacquiao when they get close again. Pacquiao lands a body shot and Mayweather ties up again. The crowd is loudly cheering on Pacquiao. Mayweather lands a straight right hand. Mayweather misses a jab and Pacquiao ducks under a Mayweather lead hook. Pacquiao diving in on Mayweather and lands a three-punch combination. Pacquiao lunges forward at the end of the round but doesn’t land. 10-9 Mayweather

ROUND THREE

Freddie Roach can be heard telling his fighter to use more footwork and combinations. Pacquiao is landing under 20%. Mayweather barely misses with a lead right hand and backs out of Pacquiao;s attack. Pacquiao rushes forward with a two punch combination but misses again. Good straight right to the body by Mayweather. Pacquiao catches Mayweather with a right hand as he comes forward. Pacquiao lands a body punch and Mayweather ties up. Mayweather backs up to the ropes again and Pacquiao misses with a bomb. Pacquiao throws a combination and Mayweather holds on again. Mayweather misses with a lead straight right, but follows it up with another right and connects. Mayweather ties up with Pacquiao again when he gets in tight. Mayweather misses with a jab. Mayweather barely misses with an overhand right. Pacquiao lands a right jab. But Mayweather answers with a cross to the body. Pacquiao lands a right hook and then lands two punches at the end. Better round for Pacquiao, but still 10-9 Mayweather.

ROUND FOUR

Mayweather is controlling the center of the ring so far in this fight. Mayweather misses with an early lead right and then a right to the body. Pacquiao rushes forward and throws two hard punches, but Mayweather ducks under them. Pacquiao with two punches and follows it up with two more punches. Mayweather misses with a right, and Pacquiao had him momentarily trapped in a corner. Pacquiao attacking to the body when he comes forward. Mayweather lands a counter right on Pacquiao and follows with two jabs. Pacquiao lands a left hand that stuns Mayweather and Mayweather covers up b th ropes. Pacquiao gets the crowd in it’s feet and Pacquiao lands more shots on a covering up Mayweather and a right hook. Pacquiao lands a counter right hook but Mayweather lands a good jab. Pacquiao ducks right under a right hand counter form Mayweather. Good right hand fomr Mayweather and Pacquiao answers and lands his own ppunch. Good right hook by Pacquiao. 10-9 Pacquiao.

ROUND FIVE

Pacquiao had his best round of the night in the fourth. They touch gloves at the start of the fifth round. Mayweather lands an early jab. Mayweather throws a right to the body but misses. Pacquiao rushes forward but just misses. Pacquiao with a straight left to the body and Mayweather answeres with a jab. Pacquiao misses with a left hook. Mayweather is sticking his jab at the guard of Pacquiao but follows with a straight right hand. Pacquiao lands a good jab. Mayweather answers with his own jab. Mayweather backs into a corner and ties up after missing with a punch. Pacquiao not as active this round as the last round. Mayweather is nibmle on his feet and stays away from the ataacks of Pacquiao. 10-9 Mayweather.

ROUND SIX

Pacquiao opens up the sixth round with a hard straight right hand but is chasing Mayweather around the ring. Mayweather misses with a straight right and Pacquiao ducks under it. The refere warns Mayweather for holding. Pacquiao lands a good straight left to the body of Mayweather. Mayweather ties up on Pacquiao again after moving away from the ropes. Pacquiao lands a good left hand that stuns Mayweather. Pacquiao lands shots on Mayweather’s body and Mayweather shkaes his head no at Pacquiao. Pacquiao attacking with combinations by the ropes. Pacuqiao lands a straight left. Pacquiao is on the attack with good quick combos. Good jab by Mayweather. Pacquiao lands a few punches on Mayweather by the corner. 10-9 round for Pacquiao.

ROUND SEVEN

They touch gloves at the start of the seventh round. Mayweather throws and lands a right hook and Pacquiao backs away. Godo right to the body by Mayweather. Mayweather is coming forward on Pacuqiao and Pacquiao lands a straight right. Good jab by Mayweather momentarily knocks Manny backwards. Good jabs by Mayweather. Pacquiao comes forward and Mayweather ties up again. Mayweather lands a straight right on Pacquiao. Mayweather is moving, almost running, away from Pacuqiao when he comes forward on the attack. Mayweather with a good jab on Pacquiao. Pacquioa with a good two punch combination that backs Mayweather up. Good jab form Mayweather. Pacuqiao with a good right hook upstairs after throwing a body punch. Close round, but 10-9 Mayweather.

ROUND EIGHT

Mayweather flicking out several jabs at Pacquiao. Pacuqiao barelymises with a straight left but follows it up later with a straight left hand that lands and a left. Pacuqiao missees with a bomb of a right hook. Good lead left by Pacquiao. Good short left by Pacquiao. The crowd is chanting for Manny again. Pacuqiao lands a jab on Mayweather as he comes forward. Good lead right by Mayweather and Pacquiao shakes it off. Pacquiao lands a left to the body of Mayweather. Mayweather lands two left hooks in a row on Pacquiao. Mayweather reach is giving Pacquiao a lot of problems. Pacuqioa lands a counter jab on Mayweather. Mayweather lands a good right hand on Pacquiao. 10-9 Mayweather.

ROUND NINE

Pacquiao throws out and misses a straight left hand. Pacuqiao misses a straight left again. Good jab by Mayweather. Good straight left by Pacquiao has Mayweather backing into the ropes. Pacquiao lunges forward again and Mayweather clinches with Pacquiao. Good jab by Pacquiao. Mayweather lands a short left hook and Pacquiao answers with a straight left to Mayweather’s chin. Pacquiao missees with a left and Mayweather lands a straight right hand. Good jab by Mayweather to stop Pacquiao’s attack. Mayweather barely misses with a straight right hand. Pacuqoa lands a three punch combo on Mayweather near the end of the round but Mayweather later lands a good straight right hand. 10-9 Pacquiao, but could go either way.

ROUND TEN

Both fighters are in the center of the ring and pawing jabs at each other. Pacquiao is short with his jabs, but lands a good hard straight left to the body of Mayweather. Pacuqioa barely misses with a straight left to Mayweather’s chin. Mayweather lands a good straight right hand. Pacquiao lands a few short shots and has Mayweather backing up. Good jab by Mayweather. Good straight right hand by Mayweather. Pacquaio lands a short right hook on Mayweather. Mayweather is backing into the corner again and Pacquiao lands a left to the body of Mayweather. Pacuqiao throws a three punch combo and lands only one punch. Mayweather leans on Pacquiao when he gets in tight. Mayweather misses with a straight right hand and Pacquiao answers with a good jab. Pacquiao outworking Mayweather this round, 10-9 Pacquiao.

ROUND ELEVEN

Mayweather should be ahead on the cards at this point. Good right hook by Mayweather at start of the round and he stuns Pacquiao. Pacquiao barely misses with a straight left hand. Pacquiao with a straight left to the body, and Mayweather answers with a two punch counter. Mayweather ducks under a combo by Pacquiao. Pacquiao lands a body shot on Mayweather. Pacquiao lands a straight left on Mayweather and follows it with a left hook. Mayweather takes a left to the body. Pacquiao more active this round so far. Mayweather lands a straight right on Pacuqiao. Mayweather fights out of the corner and lands a good jab coming out, and follows it with a straight right hand. Mayweather lands a good left hook upstars on Pacquiao. Mayweather misses with a wild right hook. Good jab to the body by Mayweather. 10-9 Mayweather.

ROUND TWELVE

Pacquiao needs a knockout to win. They embrace at the start of the twelfth round. The crowd is loudly chanting for Pacquiao. Mayweather lands a quick jab. Pacquiao is pressing forward but unable to land many punches. Good straight right by Mayweather. Good straight left by Pacquiao. Straight jab by Mayweather. Pacquiao lands a left to the body. Pacquiao misses with a straight left. Pacquiao needs to press more. Pacquiao mises with a left. Pacquiao is chasing Mayweather but Mayweather is playing it safe. Pacquiao lunging forward again but misses. 10-9 Mayweather.

Judges’ scores were 118-100, 116-112 (twice), a dominating unanimous decision for Floyd “Money” Mayweather, while the fight was scored 117-112 for Mayweather by Boxing Insider.

Posted on 05/02/2015

By: William Holmes

The number of media in Las Vegas to cover tonight’s Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao bout is gigantic as many who were used to covering the bout inside the MGM Grand Arena when in Las Vegas had to be regulated to either the spacious yet crowded media tent or the cramped studio rooms outside the arena doors.

Two bouts were on the televised portion of the undercard as Vasyl Lomachenko faced Gamalier Rodriguez for Lomachenko’s WBO Featherweight championship and Leo Santa Cruz put his undefeated record on the line against Jose Cayetano in the featherweight division.

The opening bout of the night was between Vasyl Lomachenko (3-1) and Gamalier Rodriguez (25-2-3) for Lomachenko’s WBO Featherweight Title.

Lomachenko is a southpaw and Rodriguez fought out of an orthodox stance. Lomachenko was hesitant with his offense in the first round, but was able to land an occasional jab. Rodriguez found some success with hooks to the body and at one point connected with a right hook to the head left hook to the body combination.

Lomachenko opened up the second round with a straight left to the body, and later followed it up with a straight left to the head followed by a right jab. Rodriguez was able to connect with a straight right over the top of Lomachenko’s jab to the body, but Lomachenko had the best punch of the round with a lead left uppercut followed by a triple jab.

Lomachenko began to open up more in the third round and was able to land quick pop shots and then deftly move out of the way before Rodriguez could capitalize with a counter. Rodriguez was able to land a few shots, but it appeared Lomachenko was beginning to find his rhythm.

Before the start of the fourth round, Rodriguez could be heard telling his corner that he has having problems with his hand. Lomachenko opened up his offensive attack even more in the fourth and was landing combinations at will. He opened up a cut over the right eye of Rodriguez. Lomachenko ended the fourth round with a great combination right hook and a hard uppercut.

Rodriguez lost a point in the fifth round, but it mattered little as Lomachenko was widely leading on the scorecards and was turning Rodriguez and landing punches for fun.. Lomachenko’s best combination in the fifth round was a double left hook to the head.

Lomachenko’s domination continued in the sixth round, but he was warned by the referee for a low blow that he threw in retaliation for a low blow by Rodriguez. Lomachenko scored a knockdown in the seventh after a combination to the body that forced Rodriguez to take one knee, but the latter man was able to get back to his feet at the count of eight and survive the round.

Rodriguez was deducted another point for a low blow in the ninth round and he was peppered with a variety of punches from a variety of angles in the entire round. By the tenth round, the announcers were openly wondering if Rodriguez’s corner would stop the fight, as he got battered and went down for the second time of the night from two right hooks and stayed down for entire count.

Vasyl Lomachenko wins by knockout at 0:50 of the ninth round.

The final bout on the undercard was between Leon Santa Cruz (29-0-1) and Jose Cayetano (17-3) in the featherweight division. This was Santa Cruz’s first fight in the featherweight division, but Cayetano took the fight on a few weeks notice and Santa Cruz looked much larger than Cayetano at the fighter introductions.

Santa Cruz fought out of a traditional orthodox stance while Cayetano fought out of southpaw stance. Santa Cruz, in typical fashion, applied the pressure early on and was moving behind his jab and attempted to trap Cayetano in the corner. Santa Cruz at one point appeared to have stunned Cayetano by the corner with a two-punch combination, but Cayetano recovered and actually did a decent job countering Santa Cruz.

Santa Cruz continued to use his size to his advantage in the second round and was landing hard right hands. Santa Cruz was moving Cayetano from corner to corner and applying incredible pressure, but Cayetano somehow was able to stay on his feet.

Santa Cruz continued to pound Cayetano whenever he was by the ropes in the third round and landed hard body and head combinations. Cayetano was able to land some shots of his own, but Santa Cruz was able to shake those off easily.

Cayetano had no answer for Santa Cruz’s pressure in the fourth and fifth rounds as both boxers switched stances from orthodox to southpaw and back again consistently, but it was Santa Cruz who was landing an incredibly high number of punches and was moving towards a clean sweep on the scorecards. There was a quick stoppage in the fifth round to cut some loose tape on Santa Cruz’s glove.

By the sixth round, Santa Cruz’s domination was so complete the announcers spent most of the time talking about a potential matchup with Abner Mares in the featherweight division.

Santa Cruz’s high volume of punches and high work rate continued in the seventh and eighth round, but Cayetano was able to land some good counters in the eighth that made that round semi-competitive.

Cayetano clearly needed a stoppage in the final two rounds to win the fight and he showed incredible heart throughout the fight, but he was simply not on Santa Cruz’s level and was giving up too much in size.

The final scores were 100-90 on all three scorecards for Leo Santa Cruz.

Posted on 05/02/2015

By: William Holmes

The fight that everyone has been waiting for will finally take place on May 2nd at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada as Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao meet to unify the WBC, WBA, and WBO Welterweight Championships.

Three fights are currently scheduled to be on the pay per view telecast. In addition to the main event, Top Rank’s Vasyl Lomachenko, the WBO Featherweight Champion, will put his title on the line against Galamlier Rodriguez and Al Haymon’s prized featherweight Leo Santa Cruz will be facing off against Jose Cayetano.

The following is a preview of all three televised bouts.

Vasyl Lomachenko (3-1) vs. Galamlier Rodriguez (25-2-3); WBO Featherweight Title

Vasyl Lomachenko is perhaps the best one loss boxer to hold a world title.

He’s a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and won the gold twice in the World Amateur Championships. He’s considered by many to be one of the best amateur boxers ever.

Rodriguez doesn’t have the amateur pedigree of Lomachenko, but he has held regional world titles in the featherweight division and he has been competing as a professional for nearly nine years.

Lomachenko will be giving up about an inch-and-a-half in height and four inches in reach to Rodriguez, and both are still in their athletic primes.

Lomachenko was challenged as a professional immediately as he defeated a 25-3 Jose Ramirez in his first professional fight and challenged Orlando Salido for the WBO Featherweight title in his second professional fight. Salido, a rugged veteran who knows all the tricks of the trade, came in overweight and fought a rough and rugged fight to win a close, and controversial, split decision.

But Lomachenko was able to recover from that loss and outclass a very good Gary Russell Jr. in the next bout and he followed that up with a wide twelve round decision with only one hand over Chonlatarn Piriyapinyo in his very next bout.

Rodriguez’s biggest wins have come against Orlando Cruz, Rafael Tirado, and Alicio Castaneda. His two losses came earlier in his career when he lost to David Rodela and Juan Garcia in 2009 and 2008 respectively.

This should be an easy fight for Lomachenko, as Rodriguez will not be able to match the pure boxing ability of his opponent.

Leo Santa Cruz (29-0) vs. Jose Cayetano (17-3); Featherweights

Unfortunately for fight fans, this fight will repeats a common theme on the undercard: a good, talented, young boxer facing off against an opponent with little to no chance at beating him.

Leo Santa Cruz is one of Mexico’s best boxers currently fighting and he has never been defeated. He won the world amateur championships at the age of fifteen and he has a significant amateur experience edge over Cayetano. Leo Santa Cruz also has a significant edge in power over Cayetano. He has stopped seventeen of his opponents while Cayetano has only stopped eight.

Cayetano has spent his entire career fighting in Mexico, and this will be his first fight in the United States. He has only won two of his last four fights, including his last fight against a seven loss Enrique Bernache. He has no significant or notable victories.

Santa Cruz has stopped three of his past five opponents, and his resume includes wins over Jesus Ruiz, Manuel Roman, Cesar Seda, Victor Terrazas, Eric Morel, and Alberto Guevara.

Of all the fights on the undercard, this appears to be the biggest mismatch. Anything less than a stoppage victory or a near clean sweep on the judges’ scorecards will be considered disappointing for Santa Cruz.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0) vs. Manny Pacquiao (57-5-2); WBC/WBA/WBO Welterweight Titles

If you were a fan of boxing in the past fifteen years, you probably don’t need a preview for this fight. It has been discussed ad nauseam for the past six years and most fight fans already have an idea on who they think would win.

Most would agree that neither fighter is in their athletic prime. Floyd Mayweather is thirty-eight and it’s apparent that his legs don’t allow him to be as nimble around the ring as he used to be, and Manny Pacquiao is thirty-six and he doesn’t have the devastating power that he used to have.

But both are still clearly top five pound for pound boxers, if not top two.

The biggest physical observation about the two participants is the size difference. Mayweather is the bigger fighter and he will have about an inch-and-a-half to a two-inch height advantage as well as a five-inch reach advantage.

Pacquiao has faced bigger men for most of his career, but not many have the incredibly long welterweight reach of Floyd Mayweather and Pacquiao has never faced someone who’s bigger than him and can also, at the very least, match his hand speed.

Mayweather has achieved greater amateur success than Pacquiao, who turned professional at the age of sixteen. But Pacquiao has had more stoppages than Mayweather. Pacquiao has stopped thirty-eight of his opponents while Mayweather has only stopped twenty-six. However, Pacquiao has not had a stoppage victory since 2009, and whatever power edge he may have had over Mayweather appears to be gone.

Both Pacquiao and Mayweather have defeated the who’s who of boxing in the past fifteen years. Both have defeated the likes of Juan Manuel Marquez, Ricky Hatton, Shane Mosley, Oscar De La Hoya, and Miguel Cotto. Mayweather has also defeated the likes of Arturo Gatti, Marcos Maidana, Canelo Alvarez, Robert Guerrero, and Victor Ortiz. Pacquiao has also defeated the likes of Joshua Clottey, Timothy Bradley Jr., Chris Algieri, Brandon Rios, and Antonio Margarito.

Manny Pacquiao’s losses have come to Juan Manuel Marquez by a brutal knockout, a terrible split decision loss to Timothy Bradley Jr., a loss that he later avenged to Erik Morales, and two losses early on in his career in Asia. It appears from watching Manny’s past fights that a patient, accurate, counter puncher gives Pacquiao the most problems.

Mayweather has never been defeated, but he has shown some kinks in his armor. Many felt that Mayweather lost his first fight to Jose Luis Castillo, who was able to swarm Mayweather and land an occasional clean left hand. But Mayweather was able to win very convincingly in the rematch. Mayweather at times had difficulty against southpaw Zab Judah in the early parts of their fight, but was able to take control of the later rounds and win convincingly. Mayweather’s only other “close” fights were to Miguel Cotto, who was able to land an occasional left jab and decent body shots and to Marcos Maidana who was able to rough Mayweather up when in tight.

Even though Mayweather is a polarizing character and can be hard to like, there’s no arguing with his immense talent and his perfect record.

Pacquiao’s aggressive southpaw style could give Mayweather’s shoulder roll defense problems in the first half of the fight, but Mayweather is one of the best at making adjustments and it is likely he’ll be able to use his significant reach to his advantage over the smaller Pacquiao.

Pacquiao’s straight left will be the key for him winning the fight. His power shot will come at a slightly different angle than what Mayweather’s shoulder roll defense is used to, and if he can stun Mayweather, he can follow that up with swarming combinations and maybe stop him early. But that’s a big if, and as Mayweather has shown in preovious fights such as his bout against Shane Mosley, he can take a hard punch and recover quickly.

There are many involved in boxing want Pacquiao to win, and his style is unique and one that Mayweather has not seen before, but it’s difficult imagine a situation in which Pacquiao leaves Saturday as the victor.

But this is boxing, and it only takes one punch to drastically change one’s fate.

Posted on 05/02/2015

By Ivan G. Goldman

This is the week of nerves.

Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather have begun to ease up on the training that kept their minds occupied for weeks. So now the magnitude of the fight itself, which always hovered above them but at some kind of distance, is a demon leering at them from no more than an arm’s length away.

The waiting game begins for Mayweather and Pacquiao

When they’ve got almost nothing to do except concentrate on making the weight, they have time and energy to think, and thoughts wash over them like ice water.

They know that once inside the ring, their instincts will take over.

Or will they?

Can they really go twelve hard rounds against this guy? They think about certain moves they must watch for, but they can’t fall for feints either. A tricky business, boxing.

The fighters console themselves with the knowledge of their own formidable skills and determination. But they know the opponent is also a really dangerous dude and very, very difficult to beat. Only a split second of lapsed concentration can bring disaster.

It’s the knockout that makes the fight game so different. You can’t lose a basketball or football game if you’re way ahead with ten seconds left on the clock. They both understand the possibilities. But maybe it’s the other guy who will crumble under this pressure.

Meanwhile writers clustered from around the world have to find something to write about, and the fighters no longer give them new material. They’re hunkered down behind a wall of security and have no time for the same questions they’ve already answered the same way a thousand times. It’s been a great camp and I’m as ready as I’ve ever been, blah, blah, blah.

Sportswriters always need an angle for their stories. I was particularly impressed with the one Bill Dwyre of the Los Angeles Times came up with this morning: “We are here to report the news,” he said, and “there is none.”

But when your employer is paying you salary plus expenses, you have to come up with something anyway. The promoters also demand you produce a steady stream of words built on no new facts of interest. That’s why they’re giving you a seat that they could sell for $50,000 in the scalping bazaar. You’re a professional – come up with something!

Maybe the odds are moving in one direction or another. Find a family member or somebody from the team and come back with something not entirely terrible, preferably some tidbit no one else has.

Listen, if you’re a stuck writer, I feel for you. So here’s a list of topics:

The fight will be dull

The fight will be great

The undercard stinks.

What a great undercard!

Nobody gives a damn about the undercard.

The pay-per-view numbers will be much better than expected.

The projected numbers are a fantasy.

Forget about a knockout.

It can’t possibly go the distance.

The cutmen are ready.

The scalpers are ready.

Look, there’s a Showtime guy working with an HBO guy!

Boxing is a dead sport anyway.

Hmm, it appears to be breathing.

Anybody seen Al Haymon?

Posted on 05/02/2015

“Las Vegas Metro spokesman Larry Hadfiel: (With traffic) Plan in advance, because decisions on where you’re going will not be made while you’re sitting there in traffic”

Laila Ali: “There have been times I’ve wanted to reach out to him and have a conversation with him, because I see a little boy even though he’s a grown man. I see a broken person. I know when you have money and you have ‘power’ and you have all these yes people around you, sometimes you don’t have that person to pull you aside and give it to you straight.

So every once in awhile, I’m just like, ‘You know what? I need to reach out to Floyd and I need to have a conversation with him.’ Because I don’t hate him. I dislike the way that he acts. I dislike the way that he treats people. And obviously, I’m definitely not down with this beating on women because that’s very cowardly. But…he needs somebody to reach out to him and guide him.”

Laila Ali then released this statement: I don’t like my words being twisted or taken out of context, so let me make something clear…Floyd Mayweather, Jr. is one of the best boxers in the game, and no one can diminish his professional accomplishments. As a pioneer in boxing and humanitarian, my father Muhammad Ali is The Greatest Of All Time and he set the bar high for ALL boxers to follow. Just because I proudly proclaim that my dad is The Greatest, in no way does that mean I am dissing Floyd. I don’t allow anyone to dictate to me how I feel about myself, so I am certainly not going to try tell someone else how confident they should or shouldn’t be. The Mayweather-Pacquiao rematch is one of the biggest events boxing has seen in years. This fight has re-energized our fans and gotten millions of people around the world excited again about boxing. Instead of being an unnecessary distraction to these two fighters, let’s kill the “spin cycle” and misquotes now. Put the spotlight back where it belongs….on tomorrow’s history-making fight in Vegas. Laila Ali

Nigel Collins, ESPN.com boxing: I’ve never bought into the opinion that Mayweather would easily outbox Pacquiao. I thought it was a 50-50 fight when the match was first talked about years ago and I still think it’s a 50-50 fight today. If, however, Pacquiao is as aggressive as Marcos Maidana was in his first fight with Mayweather, I can see Manny prevailing a competitive contest. He’s much faster than Maidana and significantly more accurate with his punches, which would allow him to outwork Floyd and win a close decision.

Teddy Atlas, ESPN boxing analyst: Pacquiao by controversial decision.

Lou DiBella: “It’s the biggest fight I’ve ever seen in my whole life.I remember as a kid, Ali-Frazier, hearing how big of an event that was. I was around a lot of big fights, but the enormity of this blows my mind.”

Michael Bernam, In Demand: “We fully anticipate that his will be our highest-grossing boxing event ever. We could possibly reach our highest buy number as well, although that is much less of a certainty.”

Matt Baird, DISH Network “The response we have seen to the Mayweather versus Pacquiao fight has been tremendous, and we expect this fight to be DISH’s most popular pay-per-view fight to date.”

Manny Pacquiao: “(I was) thanking him for the fans that the fight will happen. I think, I believe that the fight must happen because the fans deserve it.”

Floyd Mayweather: “I’ve dedicated myself to the sport of boxing for over 20 years, and I’m ready,”

Todd Grisham, ESPN Friday Night Fights: Anyone expecting an exciting, toe-to-toe thriller on Saturday night is delusional. Yes, Pacquiao can certainly deliver that type of fight but Mayweather has never, and will never. Look back at his 47 wins. They mostly look the same. He pretty much just picks his spots, employs incredible defense and wins on points in less than spine-tingling performance. Same thing happens here. Mayweather by decision.

Jonathan Coachman, ESPN Radio: There is a reason Floyd Mayweather is undefeated despite all of the out of the ring troubles. My heart is very different than my head here. I believe this fight will go the distance and Mayweather will win a unanimous decision. Floyd just doesn’t knock people out.

Jim Ross, Former WWE Announcer: “Mayweather wins. Pacquaio should be really happy he’s getting this fight. Trying to be a politician, he’s a singer, and maybe it is that he’s compensating for the skills he’s lost in the ring.”

Jon Taffer, ‘Bar Rescue’: “They are both incredible champions and it’s going to be an epic fight! If I had to choose, I would pick Floyd Mayweather. He’s a no BS kind of guy just like me.”

Ross Greenburg, Former Head of HBO Sports: “There’s going to be a lot of people who are disappointed with their seat location,” he said. “We used to have a thing — if we get you in the building be happy, But it’s tough to tell Denzel Washington that, or Jay Z and Beyonce.” (Bloomberg)

Vanessa Doleshal: “There has been extreme fallout, Hotels are dropping rates dramatically. They thought the demand was going to be more than what it was.”

Glen Lerham, Stubhub: “No individual ticket for any event has ever sold for more,”

Cameron Papp, Stubhub: People are watching the market trying to figure out how to buy the cheapest ticket. They’re listing it at that price to see if they will win the lottery,” Papp said. “I’m 99 percent sure they won’t get that price.”

Anonymous Ticket Broker: “It’s an embarrassment. We lost a significant amount of money”

Gene Kilroy, Ali’s former business Manager: “If Ali was fighting today, they’d be delivering his money in a Brinks truck because of closed-circuit TV. That’s where the money is today,” “The media is 80 percent larger today,” said Kilroy,(LVRJ)

Jason Simbal, Cantor Gambling: “I’m expecting 50 to 60 percent of what the Super Bow does,” said , vice president of risk management at Cantor Gaming, as he stood in the middle of a busy sports book operation within The Venetian. “The Super Bowl does about $200 million to $220 million per year for the past couple of years, this will be about half that, 60 percent of that number.”

Jim Lampley “There’s a delicate tension that goes with this production,” Lampley said. “Everyone knows these are two networks with conflicting business interests.” (NY Daily News)

Posted on 05/02/2015

The bout needs no introduction. Nor do many of the names who will appear on this list. Still, each person quoted here will be identified with what he or she is best known for. Most are experts of the fight game. Some, however, are just interesting characters. In case you missed it, Enjoy part one of our series here.

TEDDY ATLAS (Trainer, Commenator): “I think Pacquiao has a good chance,” claims the most entertaining mouthpiece in boxing. “The greatest strength of Floyd Mayweather is also his greatest weekness – his defense. He goes into it too much sometimes. He doesn’t throw enough.” Yet Atlas isn’t afraid to weigh in on Pacquiao, either.“He’s (Manny’s) got the foot speed to get to Floyd when he has to get to him.” (ES NEWS)
Prediction: Leaning Towards Pacquiao

ABEL SANCHEZ (Trainer): “I see Floyd being a little too ring smart for Manny,” says the man behind one Gennady Golovkin. “I think it’s going to be a difficult first four or five rounds, but after that I think Floyd figures him out.” And that, according to Sanchez, will tell the tale. “I see a decision,” he says. (Boxing Socialist)
Prediction: Mayweather

EVANDER HOLYFIELD: “Mayweather won’t win, because from what I’ve seen, boxing doesn’t want nobody to get out [of the sport] undefeated, They want to keep the money in the sport by doing things to make it happen this way: Somebody beats the man, and then somebody beats the man who beat the man, and then somebody beats the man who beat the man who beat the man who beat the man. Then it’s going to be a matter of whether Mayweather is going to fight again, whether he feels like he has made enough money to say, ‘I ain’t got to fight,'”(Sports on Earth)
Prediction: Pacquiao

MICHELLE RODRIGUEZ (Actress): “Oh snap, I wish it were Pacquiao man,” claims the snappy star, “but Mayweather’s a monster.” Even without a script, those lines are well delivered.
Prediction: Mayyweather

DAVID HAYE (Heavyweight Boxer): “Everybody who has eyeballs needs to see this fight,” the outspoken Brit claims. “This is the first fight I’ve ever known that doesn’t need press conferences.” Still, Haye is more than just bluster. “The smart money,” he claims thoughtfully, “obviously goes on Mayweather…Mayweather has never let his emotions get the better of him.” True enough. “It’s hard to be against him,” adds Haye. (IFLTV)
Prediction: Mayweather

LAMONT PETERSON (Junior Welterweight Boxer): “I have to go with Mayweather,” says the slick Washington DC native, “but it’s a close fight.” Hopefully it won’t end as controversially as Peterson’s last fight (a narrow decision loss to Danny Garcia did. “I say 50/40,” Peterson claims, laying down his own unique odds. (ESNews)
Prediction: Mayweather

GERRY COONEY (Former Heavyweight Boxer): “I’m a Manny Pacquiao fan,” Cooney admits, “but I don’t think he can win. I think Floyd is too good.” (Newsday)
Prediction: Mayweather

MARV ALBERT (PBC Broadcaster): “Five years ago it certainly would have been a better fight to watch,” the iconic broadcaster admits. “But I think that Pacquiao’s going to have a difficult time, even though I know Freddie wants him to go in there like, crazed.” In the end, Albert thinks it all comes down to Mayweather’s superior skill set. “I really think that I give a slight edge to Mayweather on a decision,” he says. (Newsday)
Prediction: Mayweather

AL MICHAELS (PBC Broadcaster): “I would think Mayweather.” Michael’s says. “I think Mayweather will figure out a way to win the fight.” Yet he too, think the whole thing may have come about too late. “I think the most interesting thing about this fight to me,” he claims, “is three years ago it would have been a better fight – you have to think.” (Newsday)
Prediction: Mayweather

ALEX RODRIGUEZ (New York Yankee): Like Mayweather, Rodriguez is a big time athlete who’s all too familiar with controversy. So, does he think Floyd will carry the night on May 2nd? “I’m very, very limited in my knowledge about boxing,” the world’s most infamous Yankee admits. Still, he’s going with Floyd. (nj.com)
Prediction: Mayweather

BARRY HUNTER (Trainer): “I would pretty much pick Floyd,” claims the esteemed corner man. “I think it will be more of a chess match.” To Hunter, it’s all about Mayweather avoiding temptation. “If Floyd does what Floyd and doesn’t change anything, doesn’t play up to the crowd or the media…he should come out of the fight unscathed,” Hunter says. (International Business Times)
Prediction: Mayweather

ANGEL GARCIA (Trainer): As far as Danny’s father is concerned, the key for Pacquiao is to “not go in slugging too hard, and going all crazy. He needs to take his time a bit. He needs to throw his left hand, and come back with his overhand right. He needs to keep his head moving.” Indeed Garcia believes being overly aggressive can be dangerous for the Filipino legend. “When Manny gets involved in the hype,” he says, “that’s when he gets clipped.” (International Business Times)
Prediction: Mayweather

RICKY HATTON (Former Opponent of Mayweather and Pacquiao): If anyone knows how good these two fighters are, it’s Hatton. For the talented Brit has been knocked out by both men in major fights. “Forget this particular era,” he says. “Mayweather versus Pacquiao is one of the biggest fights of all time.” So, who takes it, Ricky? “Floyd always finds a way to win,” he claims, “no matter the style, and that’s the reason that I make him a slight favorite over Manny.” (The Ring)
Prediction: Mayweather

ANDRZEJ FONFARA (Light Heavyweight Contender): “Mayweather KO,” he claims. “Sixth to eighth round, or decision.” (Dontaes Boxing Nation)
Prediction: Mayweather

DANNY GARCIA (JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION): “I’ll be there, I thinks it’s whoever shows up that night to win the fight. But if I had to bet on somebody, I’d have to bet on Floyd Mayweather.” (HoopJab)
Prediction: Mayweather

BIG SHOW (WWE Star, Former Mayweather Opponent): “I think that’s why he’s still very pretty, that’s why he’s hard to hit.” “He can hit hard, He’s just not there when you go to hit him back.” (Sky Sports)
Prediction: Mayweather

MARK WAHLBERG (Actor): “I’m going with team PacMan” (ShoSports)
Prediction: Pacquiao

SHAQUILLE O’NEAL (NBA Star): “Mayweather, Seventh round. Knockout.” (ShoSports)
Prediction: Mayweather

BILL MAHER (Television Personality): “Mayweather’s going to win”
Prediction: Mayweather

TOM BRADY (New England Patriot): “It’s always about the money,” (ShoSports)
Prediction: Mayweather

JAMIE FOXX (Actor): “This has been a long time coming,” the long time Hollywood star says. So, in the end, who does the Oscar winner think will have his hand raised? “It’s Money May”
Prediction: Mayweather

LOU DIBELLA (Promoter): “I think Floyd wins the fight, I haven’t picked against Floyd in many, many, many years, I’m not going to start now.” (Tha Boxing Voice)
Prediction: Mayweather

DIDDY (Entertainment Mogul): “This fight is going to come down to heart. Mayweather’s the champion” (ShoSports)
Prediction: Mayweather

CHARLES BARKLEY (NBA Legend): “Manny is an aggressive person. He got punches coming from every angle.”
Prediction: Pacquiao

LIVE SCHRIEBER (ACTOR): “Never discount Manny’s ability”
Prediction: Pacquiao

MICHAEL STRAHAN: (NFL Star, Television Personality): Anybody who makes the jump from pro football to morning television host must be a well-rounded individual. And in Strahan’s case, that means he knows a bit about boxing. “Mayweather, he’s an artist,” says the morning man. (ShoSports)
Prediciton: Mayweather

TITO ORTIZ (MMA Fighter): “Mayweather is just a little more slicker. I think Mayweather will pull it off. Decision.” (ThaBoxingVoice)
Prediction: Mayweather

“STONE COLD” STEVE AUSTIN (WWE): “Am I gonna throw down some money to watch Manny Pacquiao take on Floyd Mayweather? I tell you what, I’m gonna bypass on spendin my hundred bucks because I think uhhh… I think Floyd Mayweather is gonna handily win this fight.
I’d love to see Pacquiao win this thing and upset Floyd Mayweather but it just ain’t gonna happen. Mayweather Has so much talent, he’s so damn quick and fast… I mean he’s had the career that he’s had… and that’s with all due respect to Manny Pacquiao… he’s a legend in his own country and around the world.” (Steve Austin Pod Cast)
Prediction: Mayweather

PAULIE MALIGNAGGI (Welterweight): “I think early on Floyd will be Floyd and it will be a pretty tedious affair. I don’t expect the fight to start fast, although I do expect Manny to try to start fast. I don’t think you can come out with surprises and see Manny starting slow because the slower the pace the worse it is for Manny. So I don’t think there are any surprises there.

“If Manny’s going to have a shot at winning this he’s better off starting fast. I think it’s to his own detriment if he doesn’t start fast. So I think you see an attempt at starting fast by Manny.” (Grantland)

Prediction: Mayweather

CARL FROCH (Super Middleweight Champion): After winning his share of big fights, most recently an epic war against fellow Brit George Groves, Froch knows what it means to be part of an epic matchup. “There’s a lot of emotional money on Pacquiao,” the man known as “The Corbra” claims, “because a lot of people want him to win, but my money’s on Mayweather on points.” (SkySports)
Prediction: Mayweather

OSCAR DE LA HOYA: “the smart money is on Mayweather, Look, it’s Las Vegas, Mayweather’s hometown. His picture’s on the side of the MGM. The close rounds are going to go to Mayweather. It’s big business. It’s no secret.” (LA Times)
Prediction: Mayweather

GEORGE FOREMAN (Former Heavyweight Champion): “If we’ve got good judges this time, It’s go Pacquiao. He’ll (Mayweather) hurt his right hand. He can’t get a knockout. So he’ll just have to cruise on in and win or lose the fight just by a couple of points.” (The Independent)
Prediction: Pacquaio

KELL BROOK: “He’s never lost before, he knows how to win and it’s Vegas.” (The Independent)
Prediction: Mayweather

SHANE MOSELY: “I think Mayweather’s going to out-point Pacquiao by moving, evading punches, and being able to do combinations.” (The Independent)
Prediction: Mayweather

MIGUEL COTTO: “I’m rooting, for Manny Pacquiao. I think the quickness of Manny is going to have a big impact on Floyd’s performance.” (The Independent)
Prediction: Pacquiao

Keanu Reeves (Actor): “I’ve been watching him for many years, and he’s such a great champion and from the outside, he’s a remarkable person from what’s he’s doing. It’s seems like when the fire gets hotter he just gets more hot. He’s just like on it… and it looks like he’s having fun.” (ABS-CBN)
Prediction: Pacquiao

JUAN MANUEL MARQUEZ: You don’t get to find many fighters as esteemed as the great Marquez. Not only has he become one of the most respected fighters on earth, he’s lost to both Mayweather and Pacquiao. Oh, and he’s knocked Manny stone cold. So, what’s he make of Saturday’s fight? “I think Mayweather has the perfect style to win this fight,” he says. “But if Pacquiao connect(s) (with) one power punch, maybe Mayweather has a problem.” (EsNews)
Prediction: Mayweather

SYLVESTER STALLONE (Actor): “Manny, “I think he’s a super fighter, but also this guy’s (Mayweather), a super, super fighter who has never tasted defeat because he’s a chess player.” (Tecate, Sports Illustrated)
Prediction: Mayweather

LARRY MERCHANT: “When a guy has been faster than everybody he’s ever fought,and suddenly he gets into the ring with somebody who’s as fast or almost as fast or maybe a little faster, it can change everything, and that’s one of the things we don’t know.” (Tecate, Sports Illustrated)
Prediction: Pacquiao

Amir Khan: “This is a fight that the world has been wanting to see for so long and it’s great that it is now upon us. Floyd and Manny are two legendary fighters and it is only right that we get to see them share the ring together. I have no doubt that this is going to be a tremendous matchup and will be extremely exciting for as long as it lasts. Manny has hand speed and fast feet that will cause Floyd some problems early on, but as it progresses I expect Floyd to make the adjustments he tends to make to counter that before pulling away on the scorecards. Both fighters still have so much to give and on Saturday night I’m sure they’re going to produce something very special for the fans.”

Chris Algieri: “Styles make fights and I believe this is a style that suits Floyd. Floyd is the smartest fighter in the game. He will be able to pick up on certain flaws and exploit them. Manny is going to make him work in there and I believe that the first few rounds are going to be very interesting. Manny is a different and smarter fighter than he was before the Marquez knockout. If Manny comes in shape the way that he did against me, and if Floyd has missed a step at all, then I see Pacquiao giving him all kinds of trouble. Ultimately though, I see Mayweather winning a decision.”

Paulie Malignaggi: “I am taking Mayweather by wide decision or a late-round stoppage. He has too much variation to his arsenal. Pacquiao is fun to watch, but his one-dimensional approach won’t be enough on Saturday night.”

Danny O’Connor: “I am going with Mayweather. He is too smart to fall into anyone’s game plan, other than his own. I predict a decision based off of his superior boxing ability.”

Chris Rock (Comedian): Here is Chris Rock’s view on the blockbuster fight.

Read part 1 of The Experts” Pick Floyd Mayweather vs Manny Pacquaio here

Posted on 05/02/2015

By: William Holmes

The following is the final Boxing Insider special edition notebook for the upcoming Mayweather vs. Pacquiao super bout, set for May 2nd in Las Vegas, Nevada. This notebook covers most of the news and notes that have been emerging from their respective camps as we lead into fight week.

Pacquiao “Look a Like” Nearly Causes a Stampede at MGM Grand

The anticipation for Saturday’s fight has reached a level not seen for any fight in a very long time, and the hysteria caused a large scene at the MGM Grand this afternoon after the mistaken identity of an Asian man for Manny Pacquiao.

The lookalike was seen walking through the casino floor being escorted by security and a large mob of people started to follow them and took pictures causing a brief moment of chaos at the entrance of the MGM Grand Casino. Fight fans soon realized that it in fact was not Manny Pacquiao, but just goes to show the mania behind the event when the mere sight of a look a like nearly causes a stampede.

Pacquiao Mayweather Weigh-In Tickets Through the Roof

How much money is this fight bringing in?

The secondary market for the weigh in, not the fight card itself, is exploding and tickets are currently being resold for about $600 a pop. That’s $600 to watch two men weigh in wearing nothing but their underwear. Hopefully the pre weigh-in festivities will make it worth it for those spending that kind of money on a weigh in.

Celebrities Fighting for the Best Tickets to Mayweather-Pacquiao

The LA Times is reporting that celebrities will have to pay for a ticket to the upcoming Mayweather vs. Pacquiao fight and that nobody will get a complimentary ticket.

“They all can’t sit in the front row,” said Dena duBoef of Top Rank Inc., which represents Pacquiao. “Tickets and seating are probably the biggest nightmare for this fight.”

Celebrities expected to be in attendance include Robert De Niro, Jesse Jackson, Sean Combs,

Clint Eastwood, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Michael J. Fox, Jerry Bruckheimer, Will Smith, Jimmy Kimmel, Ronda Rousey, Tom Brady, and nearly a dozen team owners.

Read more here.

Mayweather-Pacquiao Broadcasters May Pull Punches

Bob Raissman of the NY Daily News reported that due to Showtime and HBO networks working together, and due to the fact they have competing conflict of interests, fight fans may notice that the broadcasters will be pulling back some punches when they analyze and announce the fight. HBO’s broadcasters in particular have been critical of Mayweather I the past, but it’s expected that they will be more subdued on Saturday night. The PPV announce team will include Showtime’s Al Bernstein, Jim Gray, Steve Farhood and HBO’s Roy Jones Jr., Jim Lampley, Max Kellerman, and Harold Lederman.

Raissman’s story can be found here.

Global Eagle Entertainment to Broadcast Mayweather-Pacquiao Exclusively on Cruise Lines

Global Eagle Entertainment, a media and connectivity provider to the travel industry, has announced that its Maritime business group, GEE Maritime, will exlusively distribute the upcoming Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao boxing match to cruise lines worldwide. GEE Maritime is the exclusive distributor of this event to the Maritime market via MTN Communications satellite network, enabling those onboard a cruise line to view it.

Pacquiao’s Fight Camp Wanted Legal Online Streaming

Fight fans who wanted to stream Saturday’s fight will be disappointed that they won’t be able to pay to watch the fight online. Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank, told Bloomberg that his company wanted to offer fans a way to pay to watch the fight online, but Showtime and HBO vetoed the idea.

Neither HBO or Showtime is a stranger to streaming, but they probably weren’t interested since they wanted viewers to buy the $100 pay-per-view package. HBO, Showtime, and the promoters for the fight have also been aggressively pursuing illegal websites offering to stream the fight for free.

Read more at here.

Fight Knocks Out Six Cirque Du Soleil Shows

Norm Clarke of the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that six of eight Cirque du Soleil shows will shut down on Saturday to serve as venues for the closed-circuit broadcast of the fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao.

18,000 seats for the six Cirque du Soleil show venues were sold out.

Jerry Nadal, senior vice president of Cirque du Soleil was quoted as saying, “It’s not going to be an entertainment crowd anyway on Saturday.”

The projected numbers for the fight include 3 million buys and $74 million in gate revenue.

Re-Sale Ticket Prices Dropping

Darren Rovell of ESPN has reported that resale prices of tickets have been dropping. The meager 500 tickets released to the public sold out in a matter of minutes, but the resale market has started to fall. He reported that the average price of tickets sold on StubHub were sold for about $3,899, compared to $4,693 on Thursday.

One broker told Rovell that he believes even high rollers were scared off at the astronomical price of tickets.

Read more here.

WSJ’s Report on Where it All Began for Pacquiao

The Wall Street Journal reported that in General Santos City, you can see signs of the local hero’s success everywhere across the city.

The Journal noted how when Pacquiao was just 12 years old he used to earn money from fights and climb the tree’s branches and throw treats down to his classmates. He used to make 100 pesos ($3.50) a fight if he won and 50 pesos if he lost.

The journal also does an excellent job on informing their readers about Pacquiao’s upbringing which led him to boxing as well as how his town proudly shows off signs of their hero’s success as well as his several businesses that he currently owns.

Dana White to be a Credentialed Member of the Media

UFC President has made his love of boxing known to most and now he gets to attend the fight not as a paying fan, but as a credentialed member of the media.

Dana White will be working with Yahoo! Sports to provide analysis for the fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao. Dana White has stated that he believes Floyd Mayweather Jr. will defeated Manny Pacquiao inside the ring.

Filipinos Urged to Turn Off Appliances During Pacquiao Fight

It has been reported that the Philippine Electric Company has urged customers to turn off major appliances to help prevent outages that have recently plagued his province so people can watch Saturday’s fight.

Palawan Electric Cooperative secretary Rante Ramos said shutting down refrigerators in 15,000 households alone will reduce the demand for electricity in the province enough to compensate for the expected power deficit of 2 megaweatts when the fight is aired in the Philippines on Saturday.

Posted on 05/01/2015

By Jackie Kallen

​I have been in the boxing game for almost 40 years. I have been to countless weigh-ins. Far too many to count or remember. But the weigh-in for the Manny Pacquaio/Floyd Mayweather fight was like nothing I’ve ever witnessed. It was more than a weigh-in. It was an EVENT.

Mayweather and Pacquiao face off at wild weigh-in

To begin with, people had to pay to get in. That’s a first. The face value of the tickets was $10. By an hour before the doors opened, they were being scalped for up to $150. The arena filed up and hip hop star Doug E. Fresh controlled the mic for the preliminary action. Every smart phone in the place was held up and in use throughout the two hours.

​Before the actual weigh-ins started, a line-up of who’s who in boxing was stretched out across the stage. For a boxing fan, this was nirvana. To name a few of the fighters on hand:

Keith Thurmon
Paul Williams
Danny Jacobs
Ishe Smith
Paulie M
Terrance Crawford
Jesse Vargas
Danny Garcis
Shawn Porter
Mickey Bey
Lucian Bute
Deontay Wilder
J’Leon Love

​There were very obviously two entities at play here. The Manny team had Michael Buffer announcing. The Money Team had Jimmy Lennon Jr. announcing. They alternated duties. Highlight videos of each fighter was flashed on the huge screens around the arena.

When Mike Tyson walked in, the crowd erupted. He has certainly become a hero. He is beloved and respected.

​It would seem that there was an even number of fans for both men, but the Pacquiao followers were ten times more vocal than the Mayweather crowd. They held up signs, hoisted flags and screamed continuously. They made their loyalty seen and heard. They also showed their hatred for Floyd. When his face popped up on the big screen, they booed. When Manny’s face came onto the screen they hooped and hollered loudly.

​Manny seemed as happy as I’ve ever seen him. He smiled widely and played to his fans. He was relaxed, cheerful and having fun. Floyd, on the other hand, seemed more serious and focused. He wasn’t as light and playful, When the crowd booed him, he scowled. There was nothing about his demeanor that didn’t scream BUSINESS AS USUAL.

​Each man walked to the stage for the weigh-in with their huge entourages, while custom-made theme songs played in the background. The audience gasped as the two men stripped down to get on the scale. Both were ripped, cut, and in amazing shape. The percentage of body fat was pretty slim on that stage.

​Manny weighed in first and came in at 145 pounds. Floyd tipped the scale at 146 on the money. Both camps seemed satisfied. Bob Arum looked on, chomping on his chewing gum the whole time. Freddie Roach was calm and controlled. The Mayweather team was animated and verbal. The atmosphere was electric.

​This felt like an actual fight. The arena was sold out, the fans were boisterous, and the two boxers were in the building. The ring for the fight was set up in the middle of the floor, though it was eerily empty. Actor Liv Schrieber (Ray Donovan) caused quite a stir when he walked by.

​If the weigh-in is a small indication of what tomorrow night will be like, it’s going to be insane. There are women’s groups protesting Mayweather’s treatment of women and the celebs are starting to flock into town. You can’t get into the MGM without a room key and there are hustlers everywhere selling knock-off Tshirts and fake merchandise. Fake tickets are being offered and the hookers are ubiquitous.

It’s an unbelievable scene.

Posted on 05/01/2015

The MGM Grand in Las Vegas was sold out with over 12,000 in attendance for the biggest live weigh-in boxing has ever had.

Floyd Mayweather 146 lbs vs Manny Pacquiao 145lbs

The Under Card

Leo Santa Cruz 124.5 vs Jose Cayetano 125
Vasyl Lomachenko 125.5 vs Gamalier Rodriguez 126
Jesse Hart 166 vs. Mike Jimenez 168

Posted on 05/01/2015

We are less then 48 hours away from the biggest fight in boxing history and Las Vegas is already going crazy.

Tickets gossip: Bob Arum is said to have spent $10,000 on his ringside ticket. Manny Pacquaio purchased 900 tickets for friends and family at a cost of about $3/4 Million. HBO is also said to have spent $3 million dollars to buy celebrities tickets. Former UFC Champion Tito Ortiz is said to have spent $250,000 on 2 ringside tickets.

Career Earnings: $340 million Pacquiao’s career vs $420 million Mayweather’s career

John McCain: “I can’t afford a $10,000 ticket. I hate to pay $99 just to watch it on TV, but I will! I hope Pacquiao, but Mayweather is the quickest fighter I’ve ever seen.” (Bloomberg)

Jay Kornegay of the Westgate Las Vegas Superbook: “America has to bet this fight, Everyone coming to this town, they’re going to wager on this fight. And we think 70% of the action will come in from Thursday on.” (LA Times)

Mike Tyson: Floyd is “small scared man” … who’s so afraid for his own safety in public that he can’t take his kids to school without a security team. “Greatness is not guarding yourself from the people, greatness is being accepted by the people.”

Mike Tyson: “I think it’s gonna be a knockout, I don’t think it’s gonna go the distance,”

Steven Espinosa, Showtime: “Usually we get day by day updates of where the cable operators are in terms of their buys,” Espinoza said. I can compare Wednesday to prior Wednesdays in prior pay-per-views. In general, that’s fairly accurate. On this particular week, we’re seeing numbers that have no precedent, so encouraging and so massive that you really can’t extrapolate anything from them.” (Daily Telegraph)

Scott Becher, Zimmerman Advertsing: “Tecate versus Corona was the greatest boxing undercard of all-time, and Tecate scored a knockout. Tecate wins not because it outspent Corona for the exclusive beer sponsorship. More important is its activation. It’s all about engaging fight fans. “Tecate is a longtime sponsor of Pacquiao, so they couldn’t miss the biggest fight of his career” (Las Vegas Review Journal)

Floyd Mayweather Sr: “To be honest with you, it’s not going to be much of a fight.

Floyd Mayweather Sr: “This fight has already been won. We can beat Manny any day, any time, any year, any moment.

Floyd Mayweather Sr: “Manny’s best performance was when he got knocked out by Juan Manuel Marquez.

Floyd Mayweather Sr: “I think it’s best for Floyd to choose what he wants to do at the end of the year. I think he should retire, because if he sticks around, somebody is going to get you sooner or later.”

Freddie Roach: “We’ve have trained so hard for this fight. This fight has two of the best fighters fighting each other.

Freddie Roach: “I’ve been training Manny for this fight for five years. We know all about him, we have covered all the bases. I think we have the winning formula to win this fight.

Freddie Roach: “If we were to lose to an undefeated fighter like this, there’s no shame in that.

Freddie Roach: “Floyd’s a good fighter, but he has picked his opponents. I don’t think he picked Manny. I think he was forced to take this fight.

Freddie Roach: “Manny was down to 143 pounds yesterday, so I told him to eat a good meal and then we will do a light workout later today. Tomorrow he will have breakfast in the morning and then get on the scale.”

Manny Pacquiao: “I want to give back to people in my country”

Bob Arum: “Without question, I’m sure that half of the money Manny earns in this fight is going to charity. That’s just how he is. He believes it’s his obligation to help the people of his country.”

Floyd Mayweather: “If I make $300 million, I’m not going to tell you. So I can tell you any number. When you get to this point, once you make so much money, there’s nothing you can buy anymore. A lot of times you think, ‘Oh, I can get this, I can get that.’ Once you get to a certain point, you can’t get nothing no more.”

Leonard Ellerbe: “Floyd Mayweather is going to try to take Manny Pacquiao’s head off, you can count on that, Floyd Mayweather is looking to finish him off”

Booker T (WWE): “(Manny) Pacquiao is going to come out there and do his best, But I think Mayweather is going to go out there and beat him in all facets of the fight. I think he’s going be a better defensive and offensive fighter. I think if it even got into a brawl, Mayweather would even win that due to the clinch. I think Mayweather is going to win the fight.” (Sporting News)

Freddie Roach: “I don’t think any fighter is afraid but I don’t think Mayweather wants this fight. He always gets to pick and choose opponents but not this one. Showtime was losing money so he didn’t get to pick this opposition like he usually does. Sometimes we do the things we have to do to please companies and try to make money.”

Mike Tyson: “Boxing’s different from when I boxed. These are businessmen up there. … And I’m a natural born killer, and I want to win, I want to win in dramatic fashion, and I want to hurt people. “I don’t like hurting people, I’m just so damn good at it.”

Oscar De La Hoya: “If (Manny) can start well in the first two rounds, then the fight can go in his direction.”

Sugar Ray Leonard: “All fighters have one last fight in them, if you look at [Muhammad] Ali against George Foreman and Ali won despite being expected to lose. With me it was Hagler, I knew I had one last fight in me. I believe that all applies to Manny Pacquiao.”

Floyd Mayweather: “Whoever bought a ticket, I love you guys. Thank you.”

Bob Arum: “I’m looking forward to being in the Philippines next week for the biggest victory parade ever in the history of the Philippines,” Arum said.

Harry Reid, US Senator: “stunning athletic event, one of the most significant athletic events in the last 50 years.” “I’m not picking a winner.” “Admittedly, I’m a little biased (For Pacquiao). He stood in my corner, He will always have my support.”

Rosie Perez, Acrtress: I can’t say. It just creates too much tension for me. I have a feeling who’s going to win. Who I want to win is a different story. But I think this could be anybody’s fight. If Pacquaio is aggressive early and hits the body and takes his breath and hurts him, then it could be Pacquiao. But if he doesn’t, it’s going to be Mayweather. (NY Post)

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel, president WBO: “In boxing, anything can happen, And in the end, the winner will be the boxing world and the boxing fan.”

Mauricio Sulaiman, president WBC: “I’m happy that May 2 will be the start of a new golden era for boxing”

Larry Merchant: “You put a gun to my head, and I’d have to pick Mayweather and hope that I’m wrong.” (Yahoo)

Zab Zubah: “We’ve known each other since about the age of fifteen…He was always the best coming out of Michigan; I was always the best coming out of New York…and then in ’06, we fought each other. That was crazy, you know what I mean? And since then, we’ve had a little fallback, but now we’re back together again. I put a post up on the picture on my Instagram, you know, ‘Brothers argue; brothers fight; but at the end of the day, we’re brothers…’So when he called on me for the left hand work, you know what I mean, I give him the best work. I give him what to prepare for, as a lefty, that a lefty’s going to bring to him…Saturday night – I’m going to have to step out there and be bold with this one – I see Floyd knocking him out…You can just tell in his eyes, the hunger.” (Yahoo)

Mayweather vs Pacquiao Undercard Press Conf:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I’m more than excited to be on this undercard. This is the biggest card I could have been on. I want to show the whole world who I am.

“I prepared very hard for this fight, like I always do. It’s going to be a historic night and I’m happy to be a part of that history.

“I know that everybody is here for Mayweather and Pacquiao but there will still be millions seeing me fight and I want to show them who Leo Santa Cruz is so that I can get a lot more fans.

“”I’m still young and there are many more fights to come. The fights the fans want, we’re going to give it to them. I know those fights are going to happen.

“I want to look spectacular and I want to get Cayetano out of there really fast. Sometimes these kind of fighters are the ones who give you the hardest fights because they come hungrier and have nothing to lose.

“Seeing my family here and having them in the arena on fight night is a huge motivation for me. I feel happier and more relaxed and I’m ready.

“I never underestimate a fighter. Any fighter in the ring is dangerous. I hope that Cayetano is ready so that we can give the fans a great show.”

JOSE CAYETANO

“I know that Leo Santa Cruz is a strong, difficult fighter but he also has weaknesses and that is what we prepared for, to give him a surprise.

“I’m a man that takes challenges and I’ve been preparing very hard, I’m always prepared for these types of fights. I’m very prepared and I feel very strongly that I will win.

“I came here for the opportunity to beat Leo Santa Cruz and for the opportunity to participate in such a grand event that is Mayweather vs. Pacquiao.

“I’m very happy and very grateful and very excited to get into the ring. It’s a huge commitment, the entire world will be watching me but that is why I accepted the fight, I know that if I beat him, bigger and better opportunities will come my way.

“I’m not nervous because it’s not the first time that I’ve faced a tough opponent. I’ve never faced a world champion but I’ve faced opponents that throw hard punches, so I’m not nervous, I’m excited.”

VASYL LOMACHENKO

“This is an opportunity to show everyone what I’m capable of doing and for millions of viewers to see that I can do it.

“The best fighters get the best opportunities in the ring, there are a lot of great fighters getting those opportunities including myself.

“It’s always a good feeling when people are saying good things about you.

“I’m very excited to be involved in a bout such as this one, May 2 will be a big show shown around the world. I’m very happy to be in the opening bout for this huge fight.”

GAMALIER RODRIGUEZ

“I’m looking forward to this big fight on Saturday. It’s a blessing to participate in this type of press conference and come Saturday, I will win! I’m sure of it. I will be champion.

“All of the attention toward Vasyl Lomachenko gives me motivation. I’ve been a fighter and a boxer since I was young and it’s added motivation to come out on top this weekend.

“I know that Lomachenko is a good and technical fighter but it doesn’t compare to my hunger and drive to be world champion.

“I wanted to take the opportunity during my speech at the press conference to let everyone know that I can here to fight. It’s going to be a hard fought battle and I’m very confident that I’ll win and become the champion this Saturday.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“I am so excited to be here today to discuss the great undercard which will be the lead-in to our long awaited, history making event taking place this Saturday night.

“The lead-in fight for Mayweather vs. Pacquiao will be a very exciting fight featuring Leo Santa Cruz and Jose Cayetano.

“Leo Santa Cruz is one of the classiest gentleman in the sport. He’s a very fan-friendly fighter and a Mexican warrior. He represents Mexico very well.”

BOB ARUM, Hall of Fame Promoter, Top Rank

“I know that every fighter deems it a tremendous honor to be part of this great event. We hope and believe that we will be presenting to the public through Mayweather Promotions and Top Rank, the best of boxing and the best fighters.

“Vasyl Lomachenko is considered to be the greatest amateur fighter of all time. Now, he looks for the same type of success he had as an amateur in the professional ranks. But this will be a very competitive fight, because Gamalier Rodriguez is a Puerto Rican who comes to fight and believes that he can upset Vasyl.

“A lot of the young men up here believe they are the next big thing in boxing, and many will be. But I know that Vasyl Lomachenko will be a big superstar in the sport of boxing.”

Posted on 04/30/2015

Bob Arum: “Rematch? This has been the most painful experience of my promotional career and you want me to talk about a F-N rematch? I’m a citizen of the United States of America and there’s a provision under the constitution that protects me from cruel and unusual punishment.”

Floyd Mayweather: “I love my children, It’s been bothering me a lot that three of them I haven’t been able to see. That’s been bothering me a lot because, you know how women are sometimes.”

Floyd Mayweather to Katie Couric about the incident: “Did I kick, stomp, and beat someone? No, that didn’t happen. I look in your face and say, ‘No, that didn’t happen.’ Did I restrain a woman that was on drugs? Yes, I did. So if they say that’s domestic violence, then, you know what? I’m guilty. I’m guilty of restraining someone.”

Bob Arum: “We’re going to look with great care to see if people who consider themselves our competitors are breaking the law or not breaking the law, But I’m not going to say anything further about that.”

Floyd Mayweather: “They were telling you guys for years that they had paperwork and I was scared. It wasn’t true. The only thing with any situation was I wanted to be treated fair.”

Bob Arum: “I don’t like to write checks of an amount I don’t have in the bank. I can cover 25 so that’s the amount he will get fight night.”

Floyd Mayweather: “Let’s say I make $200 million, That means my kids for this fight will get $50 million apiece. I think I made a smart move.”

Bob Arum: “I’ve lived in this town since 1986, and in the ’70s I did fights, My wife, Lovee, has lived here since 1964. Todd, who is the president of my company, and Dena, the children of Lovee, were born here and lived their whole lives here, and we’re respected people in this community.

Bob Arum: “when the order goes out from somebody at the MGM that nobody at the MGM can talk to us, how do you think it makes us feel? How do you think it would make anybody feel? They ought to be ashamed of themselves. And they have one guy, taking an executive (Sturm) and wrapping around his finger, and that’s Haymon. And I ain’t ever gonna forget that.”

Will #MayPac go smoothly? Bob Arum: “One would hope so. But one would be a fool not to prepare ourselves for sneak attacks”

Floyd Mayweather Sr.: “He can’t punch, We ain’t worried about it. I’m gonna have Floyd walk his ass down. Simple as that”

George Foreman: “Talking honestly about what he thinks about “The Fight of the Century, This is major… boxing deserves something like this… I’m just happy the fight is happening, and it’s happening right now. Because everyone will get a chance to see what they wanted to see. If it had happened five years ago, there would have been some too young to enjoy [and] some old enough to say, ‘Hey, there was better days.’ But now everyone’s hungry for the matchup of the century. [These are] evenly matched fighters. It’s a fan’s fight, and it should be. It’s big.”

Floyd Mayweather Sr: ‘Look at all the millionaires who go broke. When you have this much money sometimes you can’t control it. Another hundred million, two hundred million on top of what you already have looks like a tall thing. But you can do all kind of things with money. ‘If Floyd does the right thing with his he will be alright for the rest of his life. But you can get through any amount in two years spending on possessions, trips, cars, women…… Most fighters go down that hole. And when they do the friends go the same way as the money. ‘It’s the way of life, man”

George Foreman: “That’s true… [Mayweather’s] got everything to lose. But boxing was invented for the underdog – for the smaller guy who doesn’t have a chance – to come up with a way to beat the bigger, stronger guy. That’s why I give it to Pacquiao. The sport was invented… for the lesser.”

George Foreman: On Advice He would Give Pacquiao: Gottlieb asked what advice Foreman would give to Pacquiao for this match: “Hey, just win this round,” Foreman said. “Every time you come back to the corner, you sit down on the stool, wave the towel over him and don’t say anything. The bell rings, go get him again. Do the same thing you did the first round all the way through the sixth or seventh round, and you’ll win.”(Doug Gottlieb Show)

Floyd Mayweather: “At the end of the day my daughter can’t eat no zero, She can’t spend a boxing ring.”

Bob Arum: “Manny is super confident and super relaxed. You’re going to see the best Manny…And you’re not going to see the best Floyd” I think Manny’s going to beat him up like he beat up De La Hoya,” forcing him to quit on his stool after nine rounds and retire the next year. Floyd’s legs aren’t the same. People have watched him in the gym. Floyd’s only chance is to stand there and try to knock Manny out. He has no chance against Manny as a defensive fighter. None. Pacquiao has the speed and the power. Oscar was bigger, too, a lot bigger than Floyd. He got beat up. And Floyd’s going to get beat up too.”

The following are the prepared statements made at yesterdays Press Conference:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I don’t have a prediction, but I’m excited. I’m confident and I feel for the first time that I’m ready for the fight.

“I’m so happy because that feeling and that focus that I had many years ago, is back. I’m confident and relaxed.

“My love and eagerness for this fight has made me especially interested.

“I would like to invite everyone to witness the great fight between Floyd and I this Saturday.

“I want to be an example and inspiration to people.

“Before I became a boxer, I used to sleep on the street. I can’t believe that I am in this position. The boy who didn’t have food and slept on the street can have this life.

“On Saturday our goal is to make the fans happy with our performance. Both of us will work very hard to entertain the fans and give a good fight.

“I hope that both Floyd and I do our best on Saturday and to put our name in boxing history.

“The most important thing I hope for is that after the fight I can talk with Floyd about being an inspiration to people all around the world.”

FLOYD MAYWEATHER SR., Mayweather’s Father & Trainer

“Whatever happens on Saturday, it’s going to be one-sided. Pacquiao is going to sleep.

“I’m a trainer, I know what’s going on with fighters. Pacquiao doesn’t have it.

“Everybody can say what they want to say. I’ve said it before, Pacquiao can’t punch. I’m not worried about it. I’m going to have Floyd walk him down.”

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Trainer

“When this fight was announced, Manny’s training level went way up. He’s really excited about this fight.

“I think we will win a decision and outpoint this guy. If the knockout comes then that will be a bonus.

“I think Manny likes to be the underdog. We like pulling upsets and doing things we’re not supposed to do. Manny is going to be that guy.

“We will put a lot of pressure on Floyd. Manny likes to exchange and with his hand speed, this fight will go in our favor.

“Manny is reckless, but that’s his style. He tries to win fights and people enjoy his fights. He gives it his all and sometimes you get knocked out, that’s part of boxing.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“The worldwide attention and interest in this event has been unbelievable and Floyd and Manny deserve it.

“Las Vegas has a rich history of hosting the biggest and best fights in the sport. Over the years Floyd Mayweather has made the MGM his home. This will be his 11th consecutive fight at MGM Grand and the 14th in his career.

“There are two great fighters that will be fighting on Saturday night and the focus needs to be on the fighters, no one else. The focus is on the fighters on Saturday night.

“On May 2, Floyd faces another huge challenge in fellow world champion Manny Pacquiao, in a fight that the whole world is waiting to see. Once again Floyd is out to prove that he is The Best Ever and I know he will on Saturday night.”

BOB ARUM, Hall of Fame Promoter, Top Rank

“This is a great promotion with two great fighters. I hope that this fight will help elevate the rest of boxing. I think based on the interest in this fight, there has been increased interest in boxing as well, and that’s great.

“People have spent a lot of time during this event watching Manny train, but more importantly, watching Freddie teach. It’s great to see two guys on the same wavelength, working on the strategy and then working it out in the ring.”

KEN HERSHMAN, President, HBO Sports

“The journey to this fight has been a remarkable one. In addition to the great writing and reporting that all the media has been doing, HBO has been putting on terrific programs for fight fans to enjoy and bring them closer to the sport.

“One important note for everyone, please order the pay-per-view Saturday night early, or if possible today or tomorrow. We expect that the ordering systems will be overwhelmed. Also, there will be two undercard events starting at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and those events can end at any time. We want to make sure that no one misses any of the main event. Tune-in and tune-in early.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

“This event is about two world-class athletes, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, who have been working for weeks and weeks, all of their lives really, to get to this precise moment.

“These two fighters have worked their entire lives to get to this moment.

“Floyd and Manny have great teams. Floyd will be the first one to tell you that his team deserves a lot of the credit for his success and I’ve heard Manny say very similar things.

“What makes this event so special and so historic, is that we have two once-in-a-generation athletes who will be meeting in the ring in about 72 hours. We are so proud to have been given the opportunity to be a part of such a highly anticipated event.”

RICHARD STURM, President of Entertainment & Sports for MGM Resorts International

“It is an honor for the MGM Resorts to house this highly anticipated event. Sports fans around the world will have the unique opportunity to watch two of boxing’s top champions, Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, as they go toe-to-toe at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

“Excitement for this event has resonated throughout our MGM Resorts properties and the entire Las Vegas community.

“We have created additional programming at the resorts including closed circuit viewing that gives fans the chance to experience MGM’s great championship fights.

“We just want to thank everybody involved in this great event. We’re excited, we’re proud and we can’t wait for Saturday night.”