Amir Khan could make his long-awaited US debut on the same bill as Manny Pacquiao's superfight with Floyd Mayweather.
That showdown between the world's two best fighters has been marked down for March 13 in Las Vegas and Freddie Roach wants Khan to appear with his pal Pacman.
Khan's profile Stateside has gone up another notch following his sensational 76-second demolition of New Yorker Dmitriy Salita in the first defence of his WBA light-welterweight crown and Roach feels he is ready to conquer America.
"I would love for Amir to fight on the undercard of Manny's next fight," said Roach, who wants Khan to spar with Pacquiao for the Mayweather showdown.
"Amir would be ready by March, no problem, for another world title defence.
"There are a lot of big names for him now, here in Britain, and in the States. Marquez is one, while (Jose Luis) Castillo is making a comeback and has told me he wants to fight Amir.
"The only guy I don't want him to fight is Manny and I want him to spar with him before Mayweather.
"Amir's speed is good for Manny and Amir is the only guy who can keep up with Manny in the gym. When they train, they are like machines."
Roach missed Khan's first knockdown of Salita inside 10 seconds because he was climbing down the steps to his seat in the corner and even he was stunned by his protege's speed and power.
Khan flattened the previouslyunbeaten Salita with a lightning leftright hook combination and then forced the WBA's No.1 challenger to take an eight count under another flurry of punches before finishing him off with a left hook. Roach is delighted with Khan's progress under his tutelage at his Wild Card gym in Los Angeles and believes he can win world titles all the way up to middleweight.
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/more-sport/boxing/2009/12/07/amirican-dream-115875-21878933/
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Bad Left Hook Best of the Decade - Super Featherweight
Now that 2009 is getting close to wrapping up, it means this decade is almost over. Before the end of the year, I hope to get through all the weight classes, presenting to you some choices for the best fighter in a given weight class in the decade. I'm not going in any particular order here, but we'll get through all 17 weight classes.
When voting, please only consider the time that the fighter was in the specified weight class during this decade. Also, I'm not going to count obvious ballot stuffing when I tally these up at the end of the year.
In the 00's, the 130 pound weight class was mostly a transition division. Lots of the top fighters of the decade passed through the division at one point or another, but very few top fighters stayed there for an extended period of time. Most of the guys who did stick around in the weight class are actually in the other options for consideration - there are probably about 20 guys at least marginally worth a mention in this weight class, but the poll only holds 10 spots.
Marco Antonio Barrera - The Baby Faced Assassin went only 5-2 at the weight, but all of them were title fights, and he unified belts at one point during his reign. He also fought only the highest level of competition at the weight. His wins came against Erik Morales, Robbie Peden, Rocky Juarez (twice) and Mzonke Fana. His two losses came near the tail end of his career, when a clearly faded Barrera lost to Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez.
Diego Corrales - Chico went 6-2 at the weight in the decade, including three title defenses. His best wins include Angel Manfredy, Derrick Gainer, Joel Casamayor and Justin Juuko. His losses came to Floyd Mayweather and Joel Casamayor.
Acelino Freitas - "Popo" went 9-0 at the weight, most of them title defenses, during the decade before moving up and also capturing a title at lightweight. He also unified titles and became lineal champion for a while. Brazil's best boxer of the last 20 years, Popo's best wins came over Joel Casamayor, Jorge Barrios, Daniel Attah, Javier Jauregui and Barry Jones. All but two of the victories came by way of knockout.
Juan Manuel Marquez - Marquez only had three fights in the weight class, but two of them were dominant wins against Marco Antonio Barrera and Rocky Juarez, and the third was a split decision loss to Manny Pacquiao in a fight that many felt Marquez won.
Floyd Mayweather, Jr. - Mayweather only spent two years at the weight during the decade, and many of his better wins in the weight class came in the '90's, but he's here because many think he was the greatest 130 pounder of all time, and because he does own a couple of very good wins at the weight. Pretty Boy went 4-0 in the weight in the decade, including decisive victories over Chico Corrales, Carlos Hernandez and Jesus Chavez.
Erik Morales - Morales went 6-3 in the weight class, although the fights were almost exclusively against top competition, and the losses came after he was well faded. The best win of this period (and in retrospect, possible the best win of his career) came against Manny Pacquiao, Pacquiao's only loss this decade. Other key wins include Jesus Chavez, Carlos "El Famoso" Hernandez, Guty Espadas Jr. and Rodney Jones. The losses came to Pacquiao (twice) and Marco Antonio Barrera.
Manny Pacquiao - Pacman went 7-1 at the weight, and during the course of his time at the weight, ascended up the pound for pound charts. He went 2-1 against Erik Morales and also earned wins over Marco Antonio Barrera, Oscar Larios, Jorge Solis and Hector Velasquez. The biggest of his wins, however, was a highly contested decision over fellow pound for pound entrant Juan Manuel Marquez that many felt Pacquiao lost.
Others for consideration: Jesus Chavez, Carlos Hernandez, Humberto Soto, Sirimongkol Singwancha, Joel Casamayor, Jorge Barrios, Joan Guzman, Rocky Juarez, Robbie Peden, Nate Campbell, Mzonke Fana, Malcolm Klassen
http://www.badlefthook.com/2009/12/24/1142490/bad-left-hook-best-of-the-decade
When voting, please only consider the time that the fighter was in the specified weight class during this decade. Also, I'm not going to count obvious ballot stuffing when I tally these up at the end of the year.
In the 00's, the 130 pound weight class was mostly a transition division. Lots of the top fighters of the decade passed through the division at one point or another, but very few top fighters stayed there for an extended period of time. Most of the guys who did stick around in the weight class are actually in the other options for consideration - there are probably about 20 guys at least marginally worth a mention in this weight class, but the poll only holds 10 spots.
Marco Antonio Barrera - The Baby Faced Assassin went only 5-2 at the weight, but all of them were title fights, and he unified belts at one point during his reign. He also fought only the highest level of competition at the weight. His wins came against Erik Morales, Robbie Peden, Rocky Juarez (twice) and Mzonke Fana. His two losses came near the tail end of his career, when a clearly faded Barrera lost to Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez.
Diego Corrales - Chico went 6-2 at the weight in the decade, including three title defenses. His best wins include Angel Manfredy, Derrick Gainer, Joel Casamayor and Justin Juuko. His losses came to Floyd Mayweather and Joel Casamayor.
Acelino Freitas - "Popo" went 9-0 at the weight, most of them title defenses, during the decade before moving up and also capturing a title at lightweight. He also unified titles and became lineal champion for a while. Brazil's best boxer of the last 20 years, Popo's best wins came over Joel Casamayor, Jorge Barrios, Daniel Attah, Javier Jauregui and Barry Jones. All but two of the victories came by way of knockout.
Juan Manuel Marquez - Marquez only had three fights in the weight class, but two of them were dominant wins against Marco Antonio Barrera and Rocky Juarez, and the third was a split decision loss to Manny Pacquiao in a fight that many felt Marquez won.
Floyd Mayweather, Jr. - Mayweather only spent two years at the weight during the decade, and many of his better wins in the weight class came in the '90's, but he's here because many think he was the greatest 130 pounder of all time, and because he does own a couple of very good wins at the weight. Pretty Boy went 4-0 in the weight in the decade, including decisive victories over Chico Corrales, Carlos Hernandez and Jesus Chavez.
Erik Morales - Morales went 6-3 in the weight class, although the fights were almost exclusively against top competition, and the losses came after he was well faded. The best win of this period (and in retrospect, possible the best win of his career) came against Manny Pacquiao, Pacquiao's only loss this decade. Other key wins include Jesus Chavez, Carlos "El Famoso" Hernandez, Guty Espadas Jr. and Rodney Jones. The losses came to Pacquiao (twice) and Marco Antonio Barrera.
Manny Pacquiao - Pacman went 7-1 at the weight, and during the course of his time at the weight, ascended up the pound for pound charts. He went 2-1 against Erik Morales and also earned wins over Marco Antonio Barrera, Oscar Larios, Jorge Solis and Hector Velasquez. The biggest of his wins, however, was a highly contested decision over fellow pound for pound entrant Juan Manuel Marquez that many felt Pacquiao lost.
Others for consideration: Jesus Chavez, Carlos Hernandez, Humberto Soto, Sirimongkol Singwancha, Joel Casamayor, Jorge Barrios, Joan Guzman, Rocky Juarez, Robbie Peden, Nate Campbell, Mzonke Fana, Malcolm Klassen
http://www.badlefthook.com/2009/12/24/1142490/bad-left-hook-best-of-the-decade
Monday, December 28, 2009
Pacquiao vs Mayweather in Dallas
We asked the readers who they liked in the Paul Williams vs Sergio Martinez and Amir Khan vs Dmitiry Salita fights. The readers got it right in both fights. 88% backed Williams to win while 12% thought Martinez had the right stuff. Everyone was right about Amir Khan who received 100% of the votes. No one can question the winner of the Khan fight but a few arguments can be made about the winner of the Williams - Martinez bout.
And that's why I asked the readers today who they thought won the Williams Martinez fight. 70% of you feel Martinez did enough while 30% agreed with at least one of the judges decisions. Yes, it was a close fight, and it could have gone to either man but for one judge to score the fight 119-110 in favor of Williams is sick. Something needs to be done with the judging of a fight and it needs to happen NOW!
We wanted to know where you thought the Manny Pacquiao - Floyd Mayweather fight should take place if it happens. We gave the three most talked about locations Las Vegas, Dallas, and New Orleans. They say that everything is bigger in Texas and that's exactly where our readers think the biggest fight in boxing history should take place. Dallas received 55% of the votes while New Orleans came in second with 28%. Surprisingly Las Vegas only received 17% of the voting. I don't care where this fight takes place as long as it takes place.
http://www.braggingrightscorner.com/perraultpacquiaomaydallas120709.html
And that's why I asked the readers today who they thought won the Williams Martinez fight. 70% of you feel Martinez did enough while 30% agreed with at least one of the judges decisions. Yes, it was a close fight, and it could have gone to either man but for one judge to score the fight 119-110 in favor of Williams is sick. Something needs to be done with the judging of a fight and it needs to happen NOW!
We wanted to know where you thought the Manny Pacquiao - Floyd Mayweather fight should take place if it happens. We gave the three most talked about locations Las Vegas, Dallas, and New Orleans. They say that everything is bigger in Texas and that's exactly where our readers think the biggest fight in boxing history should take place. Dallas received 55% of the votes while New Orleans came in second with 28%. Surprisingly Las Vegas only received 17% of the voting. I don't care where this fight takes place as long as it takes place.
http://www.braggingrightscorner.com/perraultpacquiaomaydallas120709.html
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Pacquiao vs. Mayweather 2010 fight
Pacquiao vs. Mayweather 2010 fight could be back on, if reports that are surfacing serve as any indication. Pacquiao is said to have all but cancelled the fight with his reluctance to agree to Olympic-style drug testing. Mayweather agreed to the testing, and doesn’t want to fight Pac Man unless he will succomb to testing.
Some think that Floyd Mayweather is overreacting, and that he is making the demands because he wants Pacquiao off his A-game. You see, Pacquiao doesn’t like to get his blood drawn because he feels it makes him weak. This psychological issue could be enough to give Mayweather an advantage.
On the other hand, others feel that Pacquiao’s reluctance to take Olympic Style drug testing makes him look suspicious. They think that they Pac Man could possibly be dappling in the world of performance enhancing drugs.
Pacquiao isn’t resisting the issue of drug testing – he is just refusing to have his blood drawn. The Pac Man has suggested that he will take the same drug tests used by the MLB and NFL. This would include urinalysis and other means of drug testing.
Mayweather’s promoter maintains that they Olympic style drug testing would ensure that the best sportsmanship was experienced during the fight. Pacquiao’s promoter has said that the fight is off.
Maybe there is a third theory. Maybe this tug of war that is taking place between Pacquiao and Mayweather is really a way to pump up the popularity of the fight? After all, there’s a lot of money at stake here. The fight would most likely be shown on pay-per-view, and would cost consumers between $60 and $80.
Video about the fight can be found here.
Pacquiao vs. Mayweather fight will take place on March 13th in Las Vegas – that is, if the fighters can come to an agreement. Pacquiao vs. Mayweather 2010 fight will be officially announced on January 11, 2010.
http://www.techbanyan.com/tag/pacquiao-vs-mayweather-2010-fight/
Some think that Floyd Mayweather is overreacting, and that he is making the demands because he wants Pacquiao off his A-game. You see, Pacquiao doesn’t like to get his blood drawn because he feels it makes him weak. This psychological issue could be enough to give Mayweather an advantage.
On the other hand, others feel that Pacquiao’s reluctance to take Olympic Style drug testing makes him look suspicious. They think that they Pac Man could possibly be dappling in the world of performance enhancing drugs.
Pacquiao isn’t resisting the issue of drug testing – he is just refusing to have his blood drawn. The Pac Man has suggested that he will take the same drug tests used by the MLB and NFL. This would include urinalysis and other means of drug testing.
Mayweather’s promoter maintains that they Olympic style drug testing would ensure that the best sportsmanship was experienced during the fight. Pacquiao’s promoter has said that the fight is off.
Maybe there is a third theory. Maybe this tug of war that is taking place between Pacquiao and Mayweather is really a way to pump up the popularity of the fight? After all, there’s a lot of money at stake here. The fight would most likely be shown on pay-per-view, and would cost consumers between $60 and $80.
Video about the fight can be found here.
Pacquiao vs. Mayweather fight will take place on March 13th in Las Vegas – that is, if the fighters can come to an agreement. Pacquiao vs. Mayweather 2010 fight will be officially announced on January 11, 2010.
http://www.techbanyan.com/tag/pacquiao-vs-mayweather-2010-fight/
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather Fiasco Adds Another Feather to MMA's Cap
If it's true that boxing and mixed martial arts are mutually exclusive, then Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. are doing the sweet science a grave disservice.
For the record, I see no reason why that conditional would be true—there's certainly enough time in the day for both, and logic argues for the pair to complement each other rather than detract.
As for those who prefer MMA to boxing and using myself as one example, the disillusionment with boxing has little to do with the existence of the Ultimate Fighting Championship and its competitors.
It's more about the existence of Don King, Bob Arum, and their lesser spawn.
Nevertheless, there seems to be a growing culture war between the two, perhaps born of their inherent pugilistic tendencies.
The aforementioned Arum lists amongst his many accolades this blinder in which he describes the UFC fan base as "skinhead white guys watching people in the ring who...also look like skinhead white guys."
Nor is he too impressed with the fighters or, as Bob puts it, the "guys rolling around like homosexuals on the ground" (keep watching for the rebuttal by Bas Rutten, pretty classic stuff there).
UFC President Dana White cannot play the innocent either, although his shots have been lobbed more directly at Arum as opposed to the overall sport or supporters.
Regardless, the schism seems to be very real and that means the Pacquiao/Mayweather superfight represents an ENORMOUS opportunity for the sweet science to reclaim some of its lost territory.
The currently "dead" bout would've seen the greatest thing going in the heavier gloves square off against the hombre some argue he replaced.
In other words, pick your superlative and use it to describe anything about the fight.
Profitability, public anticipation, capacity for promotion, whatever.
The UFC is gaining ground at an almost exponential rate and nothing would throw a hitch in its' giddy-up like a fantastic, high profile boxing match.
One that would hold the fight world's attention through multiple UFC cards (including the big boy, UFC 110 in Sydney, Australia).
Furthermore, if it turned out to be a classic once the gladiators got inside the ropes, the buzz would last for months.
Yet it looks to be stiff and getting stiffer in the morgue. Even worse, the dreaded "S" word has reared its ugly head, or are we calling it the dreaded acronym these days?
As in "PED?"
Whichever it is, the subject's been broached in boxing and there's no going back now (although the UFC shouldn't get too cocky—anyone who saw that dude, allegedly Frank Mir, demolish Cheick Kongo knows its day is coming soon enough).
Manny Pacquiao can make all the legal rumblings he wants, but he's a public figure so any claim for defamation against Floyd Mayweather Sr. is a non-starter.
Unless the elder Mayweather has some proof or sincerely convincing evidence that Pacquiao did NOT take performance-enhancing drugs and that probably doesn't exist.
It's an uncomfortable truth athletes and fans will have to accept, but the mere fact that the Filipino fighter has torn through a professional sport in the Steroid Era removes speculation over his possible usage from the "malicious" category needed to secure the charge for remarks made against a public persona.
I've referenced the story before, but Tim Montgomery and Marion Jones have both admitted to doping despite never failing an Olympic drug test—the most stringent applied as far as I know.
This means, until testing protocols are developed that can actually catch the guilty parties with credible reliability, suspicion and/or public debate over the topic will very rarely be legally actionable (so long as the individual is a public figure).
For those who don't trust a random blogger, law students call it "New York Times malice."
All this means is the whispers will continue as long as Manny Pacquiao refuses to surrender to the testing. Perhaps longer.
Is it fair?
Of course not—boxing rules don't require Olympic-style testing for any other fights so why should this one be any different?
Was it wise of Floyd Mayweather's camp to use the ploy?
Of course not.
Now the most visible and beloved face boxing has must face questions and unwarranted accusations about his training regimen and chemical intake.
Now, Pac-Man's claim to be superstitious of needles despite being plastered with tattoos looks awful, despite the difference in needle used.
Now, his willingness to submit to MLB/NFL/NBA-style testing seems fatuous given the known users who populate those ranks.
Now, his insistence on some semblance of a testing schedule sends up red flags and, even worse, it gives Bob Arum another chance to open his mouth.
According to this 78-year-old man, the United States Anti-Doping Agency's refusal to acquiesce to a schedule or testing limitation is "ludicrous."
Uh, no Bob, it's honoring the definition of "blind" and "random" tests, i.e. it's quite the opposite of "ludicrous."
Imagine, living that long without acquiring an ounce of integrity.
Wow.
All of this is bad for Manny Pacquiao, but it's also bad for boxing.
And that's good for mixed martial arts.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/314312-pacquiao-vs-mayweather-fiasco-another-feather-in-mmas-cap
For the record, I see no reason why that conditional would be true—there's certainly enough time in the day for both, and logic argues for the pair to complement each other rather than detract.
As for those who prefer MMA to boxing and using myself as one example, the disillusionment with boxing has little to do with the existence of the Ultimate Fighting Championship and its competitors.
It's more about the existence of Don King, Bob Arum, and their lesser spawn.
Nevertheless, there seems to be a growing culture war between the two, perhaps born of their inherent pugilistic tendencies.
The aforementioned Arum lists amongst his many accolades this blinder in which he describes the UFC fan base as "skinhead white guys watching people in the ring who...also look like skinhead white guys."
Nor is he too impressed with the fighters or, as Bob puts it, the "guys rolling around like homosexuals on the ground" (keep watching for the rebuttal by Bas Rutten, pretty classic stuff there).
UFC President Dana White cannot play the innocent either, although his shots have been lobbed more directly at Arum as opposed to the overall sport or supporters.
Regardless, the schism seems to be very real and that means the Pacquiao/Mayweather superfight represents an ENORMOUS opportunity for the sweet science to reclaim some of its lost territory.
The currently "dead" bout would've seen the greatest thing going in the heavier gloves square off against the hombre some argue he replaced.
In other words, pick your superlative and use it to describe anything about the fight.
Profitability, public anticipation, capacity for promotion, whatever.
The UFC is gaining ground at an almost exponential rate and nothing would throw a hitch in its' giddy-up like a fantastic, high profile boxing match.
One that would hold the fight world's attention through multiple UFC cards (including the big boy, UFC 110 in Sydney, Australia).
Furthermore, if it turned out to be a classic once the gladiators got inside the ropes, the buzz would last for months.
Yet it looks to be stiff and getting stiffer in the morgue. Even worse, the dreaded "S" word has reared its ugly head, or are we calling it the dreaded acronym these days?
As in "PED?"
Whichever it is, the subject's been broached in boxing and there's no going back now (although the UFC shouldn't get too cocky—anyone who saw that dude, allegedly Frank Mir, demolish Cheick Kongo knows its day is coming soon enough).
Manny Pacquiao can make all the legal rumblings he wants, but he's a public figure so any claim for defamation against Floyd Mayweather Sr. is a non-starter.
Unless the elder Mayweather has some proof or sincerely convincing evidence that Pacquiao did NOT take performance-enhancing drugs and that probably doesn't exist.
It's an uncomfortable truth athletes and fans will have to accept, but the mere fact that the Filipino fighter has torn through a professional sport in the Steroid Era removes speculation over his possible usage from the "malicious" category needed to secure the charge for remarks made against a public persona.
I've referenced the story before, but Tim Montgomery and Marion Jones have both admitted to doping despite never failing an Olympic drug test—the most stringent applied as far as I know.
This means, until testing protocols are developed that can actually catch the guilty parties with credible reliability, suspicion and/or public debate over the topic will very rarely be legally actionable (so long as the individual is a public figure).
For those who don't trust a random blogger, law students call it "New York Times malice."
All this means is the whispers will continue as long as Manny Pacquiao refuses to surrender to the testing. Perhaps longer.
Is it fair?
Of course not—boxing rules don't require Olympic-style testing for any other fights so why should this one be any different?
Was it wise of Floyd Mayweather's camp to use the ploy?
Of course not.
Now the most visible and beloved face boxing has must face questions and unwarranted accusations about his training regimen and chemical intake.
Now, Pac-Man's claim to be superstitious of needles despite being plastered with tattoos looks awful, despite the difference in needle used.
Now, his willingness to submit to MLB/NFL/NBA-style testing seems fatuous given the known users who populate those ranks.
Now, his insistence on some semblance of a testing schedule sends up red flags and, even worse, it gives Bob Arum another chance to open his mouth.
According to this 78-year-old man, the United States Anti-Doping Agency's refusal to acquiesce to a schedule or testing limitation is "ludicrous."
Uh, no Bob, it's honoring the definition of "blind" and "random" tests, i.e. it's quite the opposite of "ludicrous."
Imagine, living that long without acquiring an ounce of integrity.
Wow.
All of this is bad for Manny Pacquiao, but it's also bad for boxing.
And that's good for mixed martial arts.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/314312-pacquiao-vs-mayweather-fiasco-another-feather-in-mmas-cap
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Pacquiao-Mayweather at Big Dome?
With millions of sports fans around the world already excited about the Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr. fight on March 13, 2010, Araneta Coliseum owner Jorge “Nene” Araneta has expressed interest in hosting the classic fight here.
All Filipinos have a stake in this fight,” said Araneta, the dapper millionaire land developer who was at ringside during the unforgettable “Thrilla in Manila” held at the Big Dome in 1975. “So it is only fair that it be held here where even minimum wage earners can afford to watch their boxing hero in action,” added the Araneta Group’s chair and CEO.
During the Big Dome’s inaugural event on March 16, 1960, over 30,000 delighted spectators witnessed boxing great Gabriel “Flash” Elorde knock out then champion Harold Gomes of the United States in the seventh round of their world junior lightweight championship.
The price of a general admission ticket was only P0.60, a price which was very affordable then.
What followed was a succession of blockbuster boxing events, but one coliseum event that stood out was the “Thrilla in Manila” held on Oct. 1, 1975.
On that fateful day, legendary boxer Muhammad Ali successfully retained his world heavyweight crown against a fiercely determined Smokin’ Joe Frazier before a capacity hometown crowd and millions of television viewers around the world.
That title bout is now considered the greatest boxing match of all time and installed the Cubao coliseum as a major venue in the global arena.
The Big Dome is also the permanent home to the “Olympics of Cockfighting,” the World Slasher Cup hosted by the Pinkatasi of Champions and the Araneta Group, as well as the country’s most prestigious beauty contest, the annual Binibining Pilipinas pageant.
Known as the country’s mecca of sports and entertainment, the Big Dome is the centerpiece of the 35-hectare Araneta Center. It was here where Pacquiao won his first major boxing crown early in his checkered career.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view/20091217-242463/Pacquiao-Mayweather-at-Big-Dome
All Filipinos have a stake in this fight,” said Araneta, the dapper millionaire land developer who was at ringside during the unforgettable “Thrilla in Manila” held at the Big Dome in 1975. “So it is only fair that it be held here where even minimum wage earners can afford to watch their boxing hero in action,” added the Araneta Group’s chair and CEO.
During the Big Dome’s inaugural event on March 16, 1960, over 30,000 delighted spectators witnessed boxing great Gabriel “Flash” Elorde knock out then champion Harold Gomes of the United States in the seventh round of their world junior lightweight championship.
The price of a general admission ticket was only P0.60, a price which was very affordable then.
What followed was a succession of blockbuster boxing events, but one coliseum event that stood out was the “Thrilla in Manila” held on Oct. 1, 1975.
On that fateful day, legendary boxer Muhammad Ali successfully retained his world heavyweight crown against a fiercely determined Smokin’ Joe Frazier before a capacity hometown crowd and millions of television viewers around the world.
That title bout is now considered the greatest boxing match of all time and installed the Cubao coliseum as a major venue in the global arena.
The Big Dome is also the permanent home to the “Olympics of Cockfighting,” the World Slasher Cup hosted by the Pinkatasi of Champions and the Araneta Group, as well as the country’s most prestigious beauty contest, the annual Binibining Pilipinas pageant.
Known as the country’s mecca of sports and entertainment, the Big Dome is the centerpiece of the 35-hectare Araneta Center. It was here where Pacquiao won his first major boxing crown early in his checkered career.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/metro/view/20091217-242463/Pacquiao-Mayweather-at-Big-Dome
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Manny Pacquiao: God Appeared and Assured me of Power and Strength
Filipino boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao said God appeared to him early in his professional boxing career and told him to have unconditional faith in him. God assured him of power and strength, Pacquiao revealed.
WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao revealed his winning secret during his 31st birthday celebration in his hometown in General Santos CIty Philippines.
The Filipino boxing icon said God appeared to him when he was just starting out in his professional boxing career and recalled what he heard.He said God promised him strength and power. He said God told him: “Just trust me, I will not leave you, I will not abandon you.”
These are some of the the words that Pacquiao said God told him. And this is the reason why every time he climbs the ring to face his opponent, he would kneel and pray in his corner.
“Win or lose, I will pray at the corner to thank God for all the blessings” he said.
Pacquiao was brought up as a religious person by his mother.
The popular Filipino boxer is scheduled to face American boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr. on March 13 in what appears to be next year's biggest boxing event
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/284299
WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao revealed his winning secret during his 31st birthday celebration in his hometown in General Santos CIty Philippines.
The Filipino boxing icon said God appeared to him when he was just starting out in his professional boxing career and recalled what he heard.He said God promised him strength and power. He said God told him: “Just trust me, I will not leave you, I will not abandon you.”
These are some of the the words that Pacquiao said God told him. And this is the reason why every time he climbs the ring to face his opponent, he would kneel and pray in his corner.
“Win or lose, I will pray at the corner to thank God for all the blessings” he said.
Pacquiao was brought up as a religious person by his mother.
The popular Filipino boxer is scheduled to face American boxer Floyd Mayweather, Jr. on March 13 in what appears to be next year's biggest boxing event
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/284299
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Manny Pacquiao Tops the 10 Greatest Fighters of The 2000s
The Best Fighters of the Millennium
Below is my list of the greatest fighters of the past 10 years. I provided their record in the millennium as a reference point. I attempted to rank each fighter by their record, quality of opponents, and domination of quality opponents.
1). Manny Pacquiao: 23-1-2. Only a loss to Eric Morales diminishes the exploits of the greatest figher of the millennium. The quality of his opponents is what sets Manny apart from any other fighter. His wars against Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Juan Manual Marquez gave him the nickname 'The Mexican Assassin'.
His move up in weight class, and subsequent destruction of De La Hoya, Hatton, and Cotto, put him into a category to himself. Only recent steroid whispers have dampened his legacy.
2). Joe Calzaghe: 19-0. 'The Pride of Wales' was the second best fighter of the millennium. Period. He had convincing, if not dominating wins, over Bernard Hopkins, Roy Jones Jr., Jeff Lacy, and Mikkel Kessler. He retired undefeated.
What's more, I never saw him in real trouble. Bernard Hopkins couldn't do anything with him but hold since he was that outclassed in hand speed. Roy Jones Jr. looked like a journeyman fighter against Calzaghe.
3). Paul Williams: 38-1. One loss to Carlos Quintana that was quickly avenged. The knock on Williams has been the supposed quality of his opponents. However, big wins over both Antonio Margarito and Winky Wright put to the rest that argument. What's even more impressive was his win against Margarito came at a time when Margarito was most likely using casts in his wraps.
He is perhaps the most dangerous and avoided fighter in the boxing ranks right now. I can't blame Kelly Pavlik for pulling out of their fight. He's tall, relentless, extremely quick, and has excellent power. I'd love to see him get a major payday against either Pacquiao or Mayweather.
4). Floyd Mayweather Junior: 18-0. Pretty Boy Floyd has been a dominating force in the millennium, but a suspicious lack of quality opponents is a huge tarnish on his perfect record. Only Jose Luis Castillo and perhaps Marquez stand out as formidable opponents.
Also, his record lacks knockouts against a plethora of substandard opponents. Really, he couldn't knock out Carlos Baldomir, DeMarcus Corley, or even Zab Judah?
5). Bernard Hopkins: 14-3. Two very puzzling losses to Jermaine Taylor dampen his record in the millennium. However, his quality of opponents is impressive so a few losses should be expected. He fought, and beat, Felix Trinidad, Oscar De La Hoya, Winky Wright, Kelly Pavlik, and Antonio Tarver, and he did it all at an age when most fighters are in decline.
6). Chad Dawson: 28-0. 'Bad' Dawson was undefeated in the millennium with significant wins against the likes of Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson. It will be interesting to see if he drops down in weight to the super middleweight division. That division is unquestionably the darling of the fight world right now with talent galore. He's running out of quality opponents at the light heavyweight class.
7). Juan Manuel Marquez: 20-3-1. His most recent loss against Mayweather has diminished his status a bit. Marquez fought two wars against Manny Pacquiao, one of them resulting in a draw. He had significant wins against Marco Antonio Barrera, Rocky Juarez, Joel Casemoyer, and Juan Diaz. A devastating body puncher and an absolute warrior.
8). Vic Darchinyan: 33-2-1. If you haven't watched Darchinyan fight, you've really missed out. A southpaw who simply loads up with his right and comes straight after his opponent. He's brash and cocky and tough as nails. A recent loss to Joseph Agbeko tarnishes his record, but he's been fairly unbeatable throughout the millennium.
9). Chris John. 30-1. The knock on John is a lack of quality of opponents. He fights out of Indonesia, and until his win over Marquez, nobody had even heard of him. He's mostly fought no-names out of Asia. However, his undefeated records is impressive, as are wins over Juan Manuel Marquez and Rocky Juarez.
10). Winky Wright: 14-2-1. Yes, he's lost his last two fights against Paul Williams and Bernard Hopkins. Still, Wright beat Shane Mosley (twice), Felix Trinidad, and Ike Quartey. In my opinion, Winky should have gotten much bigger fights earlier in his career and never garnished the respect he deserved.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/314227-ten-greatest-fighters-of-the-00s
Below is my list of the greatest fighters of the past 10 years. I provided their record in the millennium as a reference point. I attempted to rank each fighter by their record, quality of opponents, and domination of quality opponents.
1). Manny Pacquiao: 23-1-2. Only a loss to Eric Morales diminishes the exploits of the greatest figher of the millennium. The quality of his opponents is what sets Manny apart from any other fighter. His wars against Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, and Juan Manual Marquez gave him the nickname 'The Mexican Assassin'.
His move up in weight class, and subsequent destruction of De La Hoya, Hatton, and Cotto, put him into a category to himself. Only recent steroid whispers have dampened his legacy.
2). Joe Calzaghe: 19-0. 'The Pride of Wales' was the second best fighter of the millennium. Period. He had convincing, if not dominating wins, over Bernard Hopkins, Roy Jones Jr., Jeff Lacy, and Mikkel Kessler. He retired undefeated.
What's more, I never saw him in real trouble. Bernard Hopkins couldn't do anything with him but hold since he was that outclassed in hand speed. Roy Jones Jr. looked like a journeyman fighter against Calzaghe.
3). Paul Williams: 38-1. One loss to Carlos Quintana that was quickly avenged. The knock on Williams has been the supposed quality of his opponents. However, big wins over both Antonio Margarito and Winky Wright put to the rest that argument. What's even more impressive was his win against Margarito came at a time when Margarito was most likely using casts in his wraps.
He is perhaps the most dangerous and avoided fighter in the boxing ranks right now. I can't blame Kelly Pavlik for pulling out of their fight. He's tall, relentless, extremely quick, and has excellent power. I'd love to see him get a major payday against either Pacquiao or Mayweather.
4). Floyd Mayweather Junior: 18-0. Pretty Boy Floyd has been a dominating force in the millennium, but a suspicious lack of quality opponents is a huge tarnish on his perfect record. Only Jose Luis Castillo and perhaps Marquez stand out as formidable opponents.
Also, his record lacks knockouts against a plethora of substandard opponents. Really, he couldn't knock out Carlos Baldomir, DeMarcus Corley, or even Zab Judah?
5). Bernard Hopkins: 14-3. Two very puzzling losses to Jermaine Taylor dampen his record in the millennium. However, his quality of opponents is impressive so a few losses should be expected. He fought, and beat, Felix Trinidad, Oscar De La Hoya, Winky Wright, Kelly Pavlik, and Antonio Tarver, and he did it all at an age when most fighters are in decline.
6). Chad Dawson: 28-0. 'Bad' Dawson was undefeated in the millennium with significant wins against the likes of Antonio Tarver and Glen Johnson. It will be interesting to see if he drops down in weight to the super middleweight division. That division is unquestionably the darling of the fight world right now with talent galore. He's running out of quality opponents at the light heavyweight class.
7). Juan Manuel Marquez: 20-3-1. His most recent loss against Mayweather has diminished his status a bit. Marquez fought two wars against Manny Pacquiao, one of them resulting in a draw. He had significant wins against Marco Antonio Barrera, Rocky Juarez, Joel Casemoyer, and Juan Diaz. A devastating body puncher and an absolute warrior.
8). Vic Darchinyan: 33-2-1. If you haven't watched Darchinyan fight, you've really missed out. A southpaw who simply loads up with his right and comes straight after his opponent. He's brash and cocky and tough as nails. A recent loss to Joseph Agbeko tarnishes his record, but he's been fairly unbeatable throughout the millennium.
9). Chris John. 30-1. The knock on John is a lack of quality of opponents. He fights out of Indonesia, and until his win over Marquez, nobody had even heard of him. He's mostly fought no-names out of Asia. However, his undefeated records is impressive, as are wins over Juan Manuel Marquez and Rocky Juarez.
10). Winky Wright: 14-2-1. Yes, he's lost his last two fights against Paul Williams and Bernard Hopkins. Still, Wright beat Shane Mosley (twice), Felix Trinidad, and Ike Quartey. In my opinion, Winky should have gotten much bigger fights earlier in his career and never garnished the respect he deserved.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/314227-ten-greatest-fighters-of-the-00s
Monday, December 21, 2009
A Christmas tale starring Richard Schaefer, Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and a little Zab Judah
I had a page of nasty notes to heap upon Richard Schaefer for Christmas today, but I do have some memory among my remaining brain cells so I pushed the 'delete' button on them after remembering he was a pretty decent person to me on more than a few occasions without really knowing who I was.
However, he has to answer for the hypocrisy of the Shane Mosley vs. Zab Judah deal and his, Golden Boy, and Team Mayweather's decision to go after Manny Pacquiao on this silly, already smelly as dead fish, steroid/ blood testing issue which at least could push this fight to the alleged backup date of May 1 and all of its implications.
And Bob Arum isn't helping matters with his phony drama queen antics by suggesting my favorite fighter next to Judah, "Yo Paulie" Malignaggi is the threatened replacement! Tim Bradley yes, "Yo Paulie" no.
To even mention "Yo Paulie" in the same paragraph as Mayweather, Jr. and Pacquiao is blasphemy. I'm glad Malignaggi seems to have a sense of humor about it.
All that being said, here is the deal. Mosley confessed under oath a while back in the infamous BALCO case that he took illegal steroids but didn't know what they were. I guess it worked, I don't remember or care nor does it matter.
But last year when a percolating fight between Mosley and Judah was developing, the Judah side was pushing for blood testing, above and beyond the scope of the Nevada State Athletic Commission scope, which as we all know now...drum roll please...only tests urine.
So, maybe in a moment of defensive panic or confusion, the usually calm and cool Schaefer says "no" to the blood testing for Mosley vs. Judah. That what the NSAC does status quo is good enough for Golden Boy! He outsmarted himself.
Mosley vs. Judah never happened.
So what was good enough for his client and minority partner, Mosley that day, wasn't going to be good enough for Pacquiao here in this case on Christmas Day today, 77 days out from March 13.
So my question here for Schaefer is: Why the hell not?
Why this obvious two - faced maneuver? Why, now can't you admit to your client, Mayweather, you have been caught in a big-time public contradiction, and the best thing to do is to have him pee in a cup, collect his $25-40 mil March 13, and basically shut the hell up, and let's be done with this crap.
Maybe lower the pay-per-view fee for the public $10 as an informal apology? Let us get something out of this. Haven't we suffered enough?
That's what I'm talking about!
The moral of this story is of course that Zab Judah should be grateful he lives in a country that has a great commission such as the NSAC that even let's him fight there after all the crap he has pulled.
I didn't need those notes after all.
Merry Christmas everyone!
http://www.examiner.com/x-11372-Dallas-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m12d25-A-Chrismas-tale-starring-Richard-Schaefer-and-Floyd-Mayweather
However, he has to answer for the hypocrisy of the Shane Mosley vs. Zab Judah deal and his, Golden Boy, and Team Mayweather's decision to go after Manny Pacquiao on this silly, already smelly as dead fish, steroid/ blood testing issue which at least could push this fight to the alleged backup date of May 1 and all of its implications.
And Bob Arum isn't helping matters with his phony drama queen antics by suggesting my favorite fighter next to Judah, "Yo Paulie" Malignaggi is the threatened replacement! Tim Bradley yes, "Yo Paulie" no.
To even mention "Yo Paulie" in the same paragraph as Mayweather, Jr. and Pacquiao is blasphemy. I'm glad Malignaggi seems to have a sense of humor about it.
All that being said, here is the deal. Mosley confessed under oath a while back in the infamous BALCO case that he took illegal steroids but didn't know what they were. I guess it worked, I don't remember or care nor does it matter.
But last year when a percolating fight between Mosley and Judah was developing, the Judah side was pushing for blood testing, above and beyond the scope of the Nevada State Athletic Commission scope, which as we all know now...drum roll please...only tests urine.
So, maybe in a moment of defensive panic or confusion, the usually calm and cool Schaefer says "no" to the blood testing for Mosley vs. Judah. That what the NSAC does status quo is good enough for Golden Boy! He outsmarted himself.
Mosley vs. Judah never happened.
So what was good enough for his client and minority partner, Mosley that day, wasn't going to be good enough for Pacquiao here in this case on Christmas Day today, 77 days out from March 13.
So my question here for Schaefer is: Why the hell not?
Why this obvious two - faced maneuver? Why, now can't you admit to your client, Mayweather, you have been caught in a big-time public contradiction, and the best thing to do is to have him pee in a cup, collect his $25-40 mil March 13, and basically shut the hell up, and let's be done with this crap.
Maybe lower the pay-per-view fee for the public $10 as an informal apology? Let us get something out of this. Haven't we suffered enough?
That's what I'm talking about!
The moral of this story is of course that Zab Judah should be grateful he lives in a country that has a great commission such as the NSAC that even let's him fight there after all the crap he has pulled.
I didn't need those notes after all.
Merry Christmas everyone!
http://www.examiner.com/x-11372-Dallas-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m12d25-A-Chrismas-tale-starring-Richard-Schaefer-and-Floyd-Mayweather
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Pacquiao planning to file defamation suit against Mayweather and his camp
SARANGANI, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao says he is planning to file a defamation lawsuit against Floyd Mayweather Jr., the fighter's father, and Golden Boy Promotions
In a statement posted Friday on his website, Pacquiao claims that his character has been damaged and tarnished by accusations he says are untrue.
"Enough is enough," Pacquiao said in the statement. "These people, Mayweather Sr., Jr., and Golden Boy Promotions, think it is a joke and a right to accuse someone wrongly of using steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs. I have tried to just brush it off as a mere pre-fight ploy but I think they have gone overboard."
The proposed megafight between Pacquiao and Mayweather is in danger because the sides have failed to find a compromise to a dispute over blood testing. Promoter Bob Arum declared the bout dead Thursday.
Arum had set a Thursday deadline for an agreement on testing, the only issue not resolved for the planned March 13 fight. But with the Mayweather camp still insisting on using the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency to conduct the tests, Arum said there wasn't much left to discuss.
"These people think they are doing the sport a great service. They are not," Pacquiao added. "To Floyd, despite all these accusations, may your Christmas be merry and I will see you in court, soon, too."
At the core of the dispute is the insistence of the Mayweather camp of using Olympic-style drug testing for the fight, even though both fighters have never been linked to any performance-enhancing substances. Under Nevada regulations, boxers are generally only tested just before the fight and in the dressing room afterward, and only urine is given.
"I have instructed my promoter, Bob Arum, head of Top Rank Inc., to help me out in the filing of the case as soon as possible because I have had people coming over to me now asking if I really take performance-enhancing drugs and I have cheated my way into becoming the No. 1 boxer in the world," Pacquiao said.
Mayweather's camp wants blood tests that can find things urine tests can't, such as use of human growth hormone, and they want them done by USADA from the time the fight is signed until the fight is held. Pacquiao's side has agreed to both urine and blood testing, but doesn't want testing immediately before the fight because Pacquiao believes giving blood so soon before a fight will weaken him.
Pacquiao's website states that Mayweather's camp is "asking too many unrealistic and unprecedented items on the bargaining table, including that of an Olympic-style drug testing."
"I maintain and assure everyone that I have not used any form or kind of steroids and that my way to the top is a result of hard work, hard work, hard work and a lot of blood spilled from my past battles in the ring, not outside of it," Pacquiao's statement said. "I have no idea what steroids look like, and my fear in God has kept me safe and victorious through all these years.
"Now, I say to Floyd Mayweather Jr., don't be a coward, and face me in the ring, mano-a-mano, and shut your big, pretty mouth, so we can show the world who is the true king of the ring."
http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5hyD96Iw9t7Yc665PvR0dnF_oxhMA
In a statement posted Friday on his website, Pacquiao claims that his character has been damaged and tarnished by accusations he says are untrue.
"Enough is enough," Pacquiao said in the statement. "These people, Mayweather Sr., Jr., and Golden Boy Promotions, think it is a joke and a right to accuse someone wrongly of using steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs. I have tried to just brush it off as a mere pre-fight ploy but I think they have gone overboard."
The proposed megafight between Pacquiao and Mayweather is in danger because the sides have failed to find a compromise to a dispute over blood testing. Promoter Bob Arum declared the bout dead Thursday.
Arum had set a Thursday deadline for an agreement on testing, the only issue not resolved for the planned March 13 fight. But with the Mayweather camp still insisting on using the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency to conduct the tests, Arum said there wasn't much left to discuss.
"These people think they are doing the sport a great service. They are not," Pacquiao added. "To Floyd, despite all these accusations, may your Christmas be merry and I will see you in court, soon, too."
At the core of the dispute is the insistence of the Mayweather camp of using Olympic-style drug testing for the fight, even though both fighters have never been linked to any performance-enhancing substances. Under Nevada regulations, boxers are generally only tested just before the fight and in the dressing room afterward, and only urine is given.
"I have instructed my promoter, Bob Arum, head of Top Rank Inc., to help me out in the filing of the case as soon as possible because I have had people coming over to me now asking if I really take performance-enhancing drugs and I have cheated my way into becoming the No. 1 boxer in the world," Pacquiao said.
Mayweather's camp wants blood tests that can find things urine tests can't, such as use of human growth hormone, and they want them done by USADA from the time the fight is signed until the fight is held. Pacquiao's side has agreed to both urine and blood testing, but doesn't want testing immediately before the fight because Pacquiao believes giving blood so soon before a fight will weaken him.
Pacquiao's website states that Mayweather's camp is "asking too many unrealistic and unprecedented items on the bargaining table, including that of an Olympic-style drug testing."
"I maintain and assure everyone that I have not used any form or kind of steroids and that my way to the top is a result of hard work, hard work, hard work and a lot of blood spilled from my past battles in the ring, not outside of it," Pacquiao's statement said. "I have no idea what steroids look like, and my fear in God has kept me safe and victorious through all these years.
"Now, I say to Floyd Mayweather Jr., don't be a coward, and face me in the ring, mano-a-mano, and shut your big, pretty mouth, so we can show the world who is the true king of the ring."
http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5hyD96Iw9t7Yc665PvR0dnF_oxhMA
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Official Boxing Venue for Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Jr
Official Boxing Venue for Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Jr
What is known? That the highly anticipated HBO Pay-Per-View TV event of Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Maweather Jr. will happen on March 13th. Steve Kim of MaxBoxing has confirmed that much in his recent reporting. What is not know? Which Venue will host the mega event. Folks, this is a big money fight and some big money players are throwing some serious cash to host the fight.
Earlier this week the LA Times reported an unnamed source close to the negotiations as stating the official word
on the venue and the fight itself could come late Thursday (today).
The two biggest and perhaps the only two names in left in the running (Staples Center in LA was ruled out because of high taxes) are the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, which has a seating capacity of 17,157 and the new 1.2 billion dollar complex, the Dallas Cowboys Stadium. (To see the incredible seating capacity of the Cowboys Stadium, read further.)
Lawyer and Key adviser to Manny Pacquiao, Franklin Gacal, was quoted today (Thursday) by Nick Giongco for the Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation in regards to who he feel will host the mega event. Gacal who is part of team Pacquiao and was actually on his way to celebrate at the birthday party of Manny Pacquiao's, stated: "With the Casino and all the betting that's going to take place, Las Vegas will eventually get the right to host the fight." Gacal went on to add that with all the revenue on the table for this fight, he can't see Las Vegas allowing itself to lose out to Dallas.
Hey, Did you know the world's largest TV in the world hangs from the roof of the Cowboys Staduim? That's right...the world's largest 1080p HDTV. So why did I mention this? Most of us Boxing fans are already familiar with the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, so here is an excerpt from Wikipedia on the Dallas Cowboys Stadium:
"Cowboys Stadium is a domed stadium with a retractable roof in Arlington, Texas, for the National Football League's Dallas Cowboys. It replaced the partially-covered Texas Stadium, which opened in 1971, as the Cowboys' home. It was completed on May 27, 2009 and seats 80,000, but is expandable to hold up to 111,000 through the use of standing areas.
Official Boxing Venue
What is known? That the highly anticipated HBO Pay-Per-View TV event of Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Maweather Jr. will happen on March 13th. Steve Kim of MaxBoxing has confirmed that much in his recent reporting. What is not know? Which Venue will host the mega event. Folks, this is a big money fight and some big money players are throwing some serious cash to host the fight.
Earlier this week the LA Times reported an unnamed source close to the negotiations as stating the official word
on the venue and the fight itself could come late Thursday (today).
The two biggest and perhaps the only two names in left in the running (Staples Center in LA was ruled out because of high taxes) are the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, which has a seating capacity of 17,157 and the new 1.2 billion dollar complex, the Dallas Cowboys Stadium. (To see the incredible seating capacity of the Cowboys Stadium, read further.)
Lawyer and Key adviser to Manny Pacquiao, Franklin Gacal, was quoted today (Thursday) by Nick Giongco for the Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation in regards to who he feel will host the mega event. Gacal who is part of team Pacquiao and was actually on his way to celebrate at the birthday party of Manny Pacquiao's, stated: "With the Casino and all the betting that's going to take place, Las Vegas will eventually get the right to host the fight." Gacal went on to add that with all the revenue on the table for this fight, he can't see Las Vegas allowing itself to lose out to Dallas.
Hey, Did you know the world's largest TV in the world hangs from the roof of the Cowboys Staduim? That's right...the world's largest 1080p HDTV. So why did I mention this? Most of us Boxing fans are already familiar with the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, so here is an excerpt from Wikipedia on the Dallas Cowboys Stadium:
"Cowboys Stadium is a domed stadium with a retractable roof in Arlington, Texas, for the National Football League's Dallas Cowboys. It replaced the partially-covered Texas Stadium, which opened in 1971, as the Cowboys' home. It was completed on May 27, 2009 and seats 80,000, but is expandable to hold up to 111,000 through the use of standing areas.
Official Boxing Venue
Friday, December 18, 2009
Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd May Wheather Jr. Fight
Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr. Fight Belongs at Cowboys Stadium
There is little doubt that the all-but-finalized fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. will be the biggest fight the sport has seen in the modern era. Pay-per-view sales will rake in tens of millions, while ticket sales are expected to go through the roof—all thirty thousand or less if Vegas and the traditionalists have their way.
Ever been to a live fight? I know I haven't, but I would love to go.
Forget that I live in the Dallas area. I would love to see this fight, period.
Emphasis on seeing it. Not watching it.
What does Cowboys Stadium offer that no other venue can? The perfect mix between the ability to yes, watch it, but also see it, hear it, feel it, smell it, and even taste it.
A sensory overload.
I have read that people enjoy travelling to Vegas to watch the fights on closed-circuit television at the MGM Grand. Are you kidding me? I can do that at home.
The naysayers bring up the shoddy record of Texas officiating, while the Texas heads have already assured both sides that they would gladly use outside referees.
What about the parties? The atmosphere?
Do you really think Texas can't provide it? This state loves doing things bigger than anyone. Dallas is the eighth-largest city in the nation. We will host a Super Bowl in 2011 and the NCAA men's basketball Final Four in 2014. Make no mistake, the town will put their best foot forward.
Another often cited negative is that the worst seats in Cowboys Stadium would mean that the fighters would look like ants. They won't be able to see! However, almost all of those people haven't been to the stadium.
I have, and as I sat at the top of the party pass area at the far end-zone, I watched that Monday Night Football game with my own eyes. Did I look up occasionally at the smaller of the four Texas-sized video monitors looming above? Of course, but my attention was on the field of play during the actual game.
I don't mean to say that the fans would have a great view from up top. However, neither you nor I have any idea what it might actually look like. That was the whole point of the cancelled tour of the stadium for the promoters.
Imagine having over 100,000 fans oohing and awing at every right-hook and uppercut.
Additionally, the video monitors should be a welcome addition, helping people sitting up top see the action.
With Jerry World's monstrous monitors they get to see everything. They can watch the game, concert, fight, or event unfold in crystal clear high definition on a larger-than-life screen.
Just seeing the screens on your own television isn't enough though. You have to actually witness them in person to understand the sheer size and clarity. Just like you have to see the fight in person to get the full benefit.
The stars will be there in force for this fight no matter where you have it. Many fans just want the chance to be in the same stadium for the fight, instead of watching it on a distant television screen.
============================================================================================
Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr.This is the of pound for pound king.
Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr.
There is little doubt that the all-but-finalized fight between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. will be the biggest fight the sport has seen in the modern era. Pay-per-view sales will rake in tens of millions, while ticket sales are expected to go through the roof—all thirty thousand or less if Vegas and the traditionalists have their way.
Ever been to a live fight? I know I haven't, but I would love to go.
Forget that I live in the Dallas area. I would love to see this fight, period.
Emphasis on seeing it. Not watching it.
What does Cowboys Stadium offer that no other venue can? The perfect mix between the ability to yes, watch it, but also see it, hear it, feel it, smell it, and even taste it.
A sensory overload.
I have read that people enjoy travelling to Vegas to watch the fights on closed-circuit television at the MGM Grand. Are you kidding me? I can do that at home.
The naysayers bring up the shoddy record of Texas officiating, while the Texas heads have already assured both sides that they would gladly use outside referees.
What about the parties? The atmosphere?
Do you really think Texas can't provide it? This state loves doing things bigger than anyone. Dallas is the eighth-largest city in the nation. We will host a Super Bowl in 2011 and the NCAA men's basketball Final Four in 2014. Make no mistake, the town will put their best foot forward.
Another often cited negative is that the worst seats in Cowboys Stadium would mean that the fighters would look like ants. They won't be able to see! However, almost all of those people haven't been to the stadium.
I have, and as I sat at the top of the party pass area at the far end-zone, I watched that Monday Night Football game with my own eyes. Did I look up occasionally at the smaller of the four Texas-sized video monitors looming above? Of course, but my attention was on the field of play during the actual game.
I don't mean to say that the fans would have a great view from up top. However, neither you nor I have any idea what it might actually look like. That was the whole point of the cancelled tour of the stadium for the promoters.
Imagine having over 100,000 fans oohing and awing at every right-hook and uppercut.
Additionally, the video monitors should be a welcome addition, helping people sitting up top see the action.
With Jerry World's monstrous monitors they get to see everything. They can watch the game, concert, fight, or event unfold in crystal clear high definition on a larger-than-life screen.
Just seeing the screens on your own television isn't enough though. You have to actually witness them in person to understand the sheer size and clarity. Just like you have to see the fight in person to get the full benefit.
The stars will be there in force for this fight no matter where you have it. Many fans just want the chance to be in the same stadium for the fight, instead of watching it on a distant television screen.
============================================================================================
Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr.This is the of pound for pound king.
Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Boxing Poll Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Jr
Boxing Poll Manny Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Jr - and the Winner is... See Results Now!
It's the mega event everyone wants, the proposed March 13th HBO Pay-per-view TV mega event, Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs Manny Pacquiao. People are talking about what venue the fight will be at, MGM Grand in Las Vegas, or the Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Texas. They are also talking about the Olympic style drug testing that both fighters will need to submit their blood and urine samples to check for illegal steroids or banned performance enhancements. So much to talk about, and the fight isn't even official yet.
Aside from venue and drug talk, folks are also talking about think will will this epic match up. In a recent and ongoing poll conducted by Newday.com, readers were asked to vote on who they think will win Floyd Mayweather Jr vs. Manny Pacquiao.
Here are the results of that Poll so far. These results are not scientific. The voting poll asked: Who would win in a fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao? Out of 551 votes calculated so far, the results are as follows:
86 votes for a total sum of 16% of voters believe Floyd Mayweather Jr will win in a romp.
247 votes for a total sum of 45% of voters believe Manny Pacquiao will win in a romp.
116 votes for a total sum of 21% of voters believe Mayweather will win by a close decision
102 votes for a total sum of 19% of voters believe Pacquiao will win by a close decision.
When it comes to victory by close decision, Mayweather Jr. just slightly edges out Pacquiao. When it comes to what fighter would win in a "romp", Pacquiao clearly dominates in the poll.
Overall - The winner of the Poll (As of Now...the Newsday.com poll is still open for more voting.)
Floyd Mayweather Jr. received 202 of the 551 total votes for a final tally of 37%
Manny Pacquiao received 349 of the 551 total votes for a final tally of 63%
According to readers of Newdays, Manny Pacquiao will be the clear winner.
Boxing Poll
It's the mega event everyone wants, the proposed March 13th HBO Pay-per-view TV mega event, Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs Manny Pacquiao. People are talking about what venue the fight will be at, MGM Grand in Las Vegas, or the Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Texas. They are also talking about the Olympic style drug testing that both fighters will need to submit their blood and urine samples to check for illegal steroids or banned performance enhancements. So much to talk about, and the fight isn't even official yet.
Aside from venue and drug talk, folks are also talking about think will will this epic match up. In a recent and ongoing poll conducted by Newday.com, readers were asked to vote on who they think will win Floyd Mayweather Jr vs. Manny Pacquiao.
Here are the results of that Poll so far. These results are not scientific. The voting poll asked: Who would win in a fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao? Out of 551 votes calculated so far, the results are as follows:
86 votes for a total sum of 16% of voters believe Floyd Mayweather Jr will win in a romp.
247 votes for a total sum of 45% of voters believe Manny Pacquiao will win in a romp.
116 votes for a total sum of 21% of voters believe Mayweather will win by a close decision
102 votes for a total sum of 19% of voters believe Pacquiao will win by a close decision.
When it comes to victory by close decision, Mayweather Jr. just slightly edges out Pacquiao. When it comes to what fighter would win in a "romp", Pacquiao clearly dominates in the poll.
Overall - The winner of the Poll (As of Now...the Newsday.com poll is still open for more voting.)
Floyd Mayweather Jr. received 202 of the 551 total votes for a final tally of 37%
Manny Pacquiao received 349 of the 551 total votes for a final tally of 63%
According to readers of Newdays, Manny Pacquiao will be the clear winner.
Boxing Poll
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Matt Aguilar: Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather Jr. superfight belongs in Cowboys Stadium
With a pair of pay-per-view fights drawing more than a million buys in 2009, boxing is enjoying a spike in popularity that it hasn't seen since Mike Tyson ruled the heavyweight division 20 years ago.
The sport's resurgence can be traced directly to the star attractions of those two successful PPV events -- Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. And it won't be long now before "Pac-Man" and "Money" square off in a proposed May 1, 2010, showdown that is all but guaranteed to smash previous PPV records and perhaps usher in a new era in boxing.
This is an unprecedented time in boxing. It is on the precipice of becoming important again. And the Pacquiao-Mayweather fight will dictate whether it gets there.
So why not make it as big as it can be?
A statement
While Las Vegas will always be boxing's capital, Pacquiao-Mayweather requires a grand stage if it hopes to catapult the sweet science back into the mainstream. And the new billion-dollar Dallas Cowboys Stadium is that grand stage.
Cowboys Stadium reportedly is a candidate to host Pacquiao-Mayweather, along with a proposed temporary 30,000 seat stadium on the Vegas Strip, the new Yankee Stadium, CitiField -- the new New York Mets stadium -- and the Superdome in New Orleans.
Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank already has said that Yankee Stadium and Mets Stadium are out for tax reasons. The Superdome is dated. And the temporary stadium proposal in Vegas fails to accommodate one major, undeniable possibility: rain.
The venue that makes the most sense is Cowboys Stadium.
It seats more than 100,000. It has the largest big-screen television on earth, making every seat in the house a good one. It has a retractable roof -- making the weather a non-factor. And it sits in Texas -- a state that is wildly passionate about its boxing.
Whether it's Oscar De La Hoya drawing 47,000 people to the Sun Bowl in El Paso or Julio Cesar Chavez and Pernell Whitaker drawing 65,000 to the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas supports major boxing events.
Arum is well aware of the Lone Star State's passionate, knowledgeable, predominantly Hispanic boxing fans. He saw it first hand with De La Hoya's appearance in the Sun Bowl. And with the Texas pay-per-view receipts that he counts.
Imagine the state's support of a monster event like Pacquiao-Mayweather.
If the point is to make this showdown the pugilistic equivalent of the World Series, NBA Finals and Super Bowl -- then it needs to be in Cowboys Stadium.
Only option
With the help of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, the money making potential and hype for this fight would be unprecedented. The entities that have ignored boxing for years -- the television networks, the national magazines and newspapers, the corporate sponsors -- would be forced to pay attention and recognize boxing as a renewed force.
And while Pacquiao-Mayweather always could end up at the MGM Grand or Mandalay Bay, it simply would be another big fight weekend in Vegas. In Dallas, it would be something never before seen.
Now that's making a statement.
Meanwhile, Vegas wouldn't be threatened. It will always be "Fight Town." It even would benefit if Pacquiao-Mayweather achieved the expected success in Cowboys Stadium, as it would energize the entire sport.
They say everything is bigger in Texas. Wouldn't it make sense, then, to put perhaps the biggest, richest fight of all time in Texas?
If the sport really wanted to capitalize on the momentum, and re-establish itself as a force, this is its chance. If it really wanted to make a statement, then Cowboys Stadium is the only option.
http://www.elpasotimes.com/ci_13887542?source=most_viewed
The sport's resurgence can be traced directly to the star attractions of those two successful PPV events -- Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. And it won't be long now before "Pac-Man" and "Money" square off in a proposed May 1, 2010, showdown that is all but guaranteed to smash previous PPV records and perhaps usher in a new era in boxing.
This is an unprecedented time in boxing. It is on the precipice of becoming important again. And the Pacquiao-Mayweather fight will dictate whether it gets there.
So why not make it as big as it can be?
A statement
While Las Vegas will always be boxing's capital, Pacquiao-Mayweather requires a grand stage if it hopes to catapult the sweet science back into the mainstream. And the new billion-dollar Dallas Cowboys Stadium is that grand stage.
Cowboys Stadium reportedly is a candidate to host Pacquiao-Mayweather, along with a proposed temporary 30,000 seat stadium on the Vegas Strip, the new Yankee Stadium, CitiField -- the new New York Mets stadium -- and the Superdome in New Orleans.
Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank already has said that Yankee Stadium and Mets Stadium are out for tax reasons. The Superdome is dated. And the temporary stadium proposal in Vegas fails to accommodate one major, undeniable possibility: rain.
The venue that makes the most sense is Cowboys Stadium.
It seats more than 100,000. It has the largest big-screen television on earth, making every seat in the house a good one. It has a retractable roof -- making the weather a non-factor. And it sits in Texas -- a state that is wildly passionate about its boxing.
Whether it's Oscar De La Hoya drawing 47,000 people to the Sun Bowl in El Paso or Julio Cesar Chavez and Pernell Whitaker drawing 65,000 to the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas supports major boxing events.
Arum is well aware of the Lone Star State's passionate, knowledgeable, predominantly Hispanic boxing fans. He saw it first hand with De La Hoya's appearance in the Sun Bowl. And with the Texas pay-per-view receipts that he counts.
Imagine the state's support of a monster event like Pacquiao-Mayweather.
If the point is to make this showdown the pugilistic equivalent of the World Series, NBA Finals and Super Bowl -- then it needs to be in Cowboys Stadium.
Only option
With the help of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, the money making potential and hype for this fight would be unprecedented. The entities that have ignored boxing for years -- the television networks, the national magazines and newspapers, the corporate sponsors -- would be forced to pay attention and recognize boxing as a renewed force.
And while Pacquiao-Mayweather always could end up at the MGM Grand or Mandalay Bay, it simply would be another big fight weekend in Vegas. In Dallas, it would be something never before seen.
Now that's making a statement.
Meanwhile, Vegas wouldn't be threatened. It will always be "Fight Town." It even would benefit if Pacquiao-Mayweather achieved the expected success in Cowboys Stadium, as it would energize the entire sport.
They say everything is bigger in Texas. Wouldn't it make sense, then, to put perhaps the biggest, richest fight of all time in Texas?
If the sport really wanted to capitalize on the momentum, and re-establish itself as a force, this is its chance. If it really wanted to make a statement, then Cowboys Stadium is the only option.
http://www.elpasotimes.com/ci_13887542?source=most_viewed
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