Just call Yuri Foreman the “Rodney Dangerfield” of the boxing world - he “just can’t get no respect”. Despite holding the WBA light middleweight title, few people consider him to be an elite-level fighter. Much of this comes from his lack of pedigree before winning the title - before beating Daniel Santos for the title in November 2009, Foreman had a lack of wins against quality opponents. Also hurting him in gaining respect in the boxing community is his lack of power. He has a perfect 28-0 record but has racked up just 8 KOs during his career - hardly numbers that make him considered to be a dangerous opponent.
So it’s clear that Foreman has a lot of gain and also a lot to lose in his fight on June 5 against Miguel Cotto. The sheer nature and location of the fight automatically elevates its importance - it’s the first fight held at the new Yankee Stadium since it was opened two years ago. But the bout clearly means much more to Foreman’s career than the historical footnote that would come with opening boxing at the site with a win.
Beating Cotto would finally give Foreman a signature victory against a world-class opponent. Beating Cotto would make it very difficult for critics to claim that Foreman is a one-trick pony or a champion created by careful selection of opponents. Unlike Foreman, Cotto is one of the most highly-respected fighters of his generation. He’s considered a warrior who has fought his share of battles over the years and is ready for any obstacle. A victory over Cotto would proven to many people that Foreman’s blazing hand speed and defensive prowess can lead him to victory against even the toughest opponent.
Despite having a distinguished career and place in the Hall of Fame already cemented, Cotto also has a lot on the line in this fight as well. His last fight was a brutal contest against Manny Pacquiao which saw him battered like never before. Although he showed the heart of a champion and refused to quit, he was unable to deal with the speed and precision of Pacquiao’s punches, leading to the fight being stopped by referee Kenny Bayless in the 12th round. It was an embarrassing defeat for one of the proudest fighters in the sport.
Continue reading here
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Pacquiao vs Mayweather : Americans Crucified Pacquiao
By : Ricky Bobby
Pacquiao – Mayweather fight is one of the biggest and expected fight of the year. But it seems the ball is still rolling and unsure if this fight will happen. Let me stand first on my title, sorry but I’m not being a racist here or something. I just want to clarify and see why people in the US now doubts Manny Pacquiao on using PEDs.
For me Pacquiao is right when he filed a lawsuit against Mayweather and his camp on the issue of using PEDs. Manny Pacquiao runs in boxing for almost 15 years and he has a clean record. I don’t know why Floyd Mayweather pull this string of making some allegation that the number 1 pound for pound fighter is on PEDs.
This is the trend and people now thinks and doubt Pacman because of Floyd’s allegation.
After reading some post from other writer they seem to side on Mayweather now, look at the boxing industry on this point. For me it’s better to watch a UFC pay per view event more than watching a boxing match but unless if Pacman is fighting then make sure I will be watching his fight.
Boxing is now getting boring fights, some says Boxing is not just only knock outs because it’s a sweet science.
On the other why the Sports commission is allowing Mayweather to dictate the fight? The NSAC should be looking also on this point if Mayweather cut this crap on insisting a “CLEAN SPORT” then NSAC should be doing it also in other boxing fights.
Now some of the people hates and even doubt Pacman on his career but the Filipino Pride is not moved because of this issue regarding his performance.
Right now I have to agree on the blood testing but I’m not really into it just to make the fight happen. NSAC is doing there job for decades now and Floyd is trying to make a move that the commission is not doing their position well enough.
Well if Mayweather insists more than 14 days then I suggest that Pacquiao should stop negotiating with Mayweather, he better hang up his gloves and serve the people.
Me, agreeing on Mayweather’s antics of blood testing is just to have Pacquiao a chance of beating Floyd Mayweather’s face badly.
Article Source: http://worldailynews.com/pacquiao-vs-mayweather-americans-crucified-pacquiao/1221/
Pacquiao – Mayweather fight is one of the biggest and expected fight of the year. But it seems the ball is still rolling and unsure if this fight will happen. Let me stand first on my title, sorry but I’m not being a racist here or something. I just want to clarify and see why people in the US now doubts Manny Pacquiao on using PEDs.
For me Pacquiao is right when he filed a lawsuit against Mayweather and his camp on the issue of using PEDs. Manny Pacquiao runs in boxing for almost 15 years and he has a clean record. I don’t know why Floyd Mayweather pull this string of making some allegation that the number 1 pound for pound fighter is on PEDs.
This is the trend and people now thinks and doubt Pacman because of Floyd’s allegation.
After reading some post from other writer they seem to side on Mayweather now, look at the boxing industry on this point. For me it’s better to watch a UFC pay per view event more than watching a boxing match but unless if Pacman is fighting then make sure I will be watching his fight.
Boxing is now getting boring fights, some says Boxing is not just only knock outs because it’s a sweet science.
On the other why the Sports commission is allowing Mayweather to dictate the fight? The NSAC should be looking also on this point if Mayweather cut this crap on insisting a “CLEAN SPORT” then NSAC should be doing it also in other boxing fights.
Now some of the people hates and even doubt Pacman on his career but the Filipino Pride is not moved because of this issue regarding his performance.
Right now I have to agree on the blood testing but I’m not really into it just to make the fight happen. NSAC is doing there job for decades now and Floyd is trying to make a move that the commission is not doing their position well enough.
Well if Mayweather insists more than 14 days then I suggest that Pacquiao should stop negotiating with Mayweather, he better hang up his gloves and serve the people.
Me, agreeing on Mayweather’s antics of blood testing is just to have Pacquiao a chance of beating Floyd Mayweather’s face badly.
Article Source: http://worldailynews.com/pacquiao-vs-mayweather-americans-crucified-pacquiao/1221/
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Pacquiao relents on pre-fight tests
By Roy Luarca
MANILA, Philippines—This time, Manny Pacquiao is giving Floyd Mayweather Jr. little room to reject their proposed megabuck bout on Nov. 13.
After thumbing down Mayweather’s demand for Olympic drug testing and canceling their fight set on March 13, congressman-elect Pacquiao is now willing to deviate from his hard-line stance.
Pacquiao, intent on forging what could be boxing’s biggest showdown ever, said he is now amenable to undergo random drug and urine testing 14 days before the fight.
Originally, Pacquiao wanted the tests to be held at least 24 days before the fight, saying blood extraction procedures made him weak.
The 31-year-old Pacquiao said he felt weak when he fought and lost by unanimous decision to Erik Morales the first time they met in March 2005 as a result of the late tests.
Pacquiao went on to beat the Mexican great in their next two bouts.
“Whatever is agreed upon, it’s OK with me,” Pacquiao said in Filipino. “I trust Mr. (Bob) Arum on this matter.”
Pacquiao, who’s been proclaimed as winner of Sarangani’s lone congressional district, flew in from Gen. Santos City on Tuesday to meet with President-apparent Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.
The seven-division champ shot a Ginebra commercial on Wednesday and visited his commercial building in Manila’s Quiapo district Thursday night with confidant Rex “Wakee” Salud.
Pacquiao, who will take a crash course on governance at the University of the Philippines, said he’s willing to be tested two weeks before fight night provided that the amount of blood to be taken would be minimal.
Projected to enrich both fighters by at least $40 million, the Pacquiao-Mayweather fight was almost sealed before a last-minute demand by the American for random testing derailed negotiations.
Known for his intense focus when in training, Pacquiao said he sees no conflict in his duties as a congressman and as a fighter.
Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/professional/professional/view/20100521-271181/Pacquiao-relents-on-pre-fight-tests
MANILA, Philippines—This time, Manny Pacquiao is giving Floyd Mayweather Jr. little room to reject their proposed megabuck bout on Nov. 13.
After thumbing down Mayweather’s demand for Olympic drug testing and canceling their fight set on March 13, congressman-elect Pacquiao is now willing to deviate from his hard-line stance.
Pacquiao, intent on forging what could be boxing’s biggest showdown ever, said he is now amenable to undergo random drug and urine testing 14 days before the fight.
Originally, Pacquiao wanted the tests to be held at least 24 days before the fight, saying blood extraction procedures made him weak.
The 31-year-old Pacquiao said he felt weak when he fought and lost by unanimous decision to Erik Morales the first time they met in March 2005 as a result of the late tests.
Pacquiao went on to beat the Mexican great in their next two bouts.
“Whatever is agreed upon, it’s OK with me,” Pacquiao said in Filipino. “I trust Mr. (Bob) Arum on this matter.”
Pacquiao, who’s been proclaimed as winner of Sarangani’s lone congressional district, flew in from Gen. Santos City on Tuesday to meet with President-apparent Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.
The seven-division champ shot a Ginebra commercial on Wednesday and visited his commercial building in Manila’s Quiapo district Thursday night with confidant Rex “Wakee” Salud.
Pacquiao, who will take a crash course on governance at the University of the Philippines, said he’s willing to be tested two weeks before fight night provided that the amount of blood to be taken would be minimal.
Projected to enrich both fighters by at least $40 million, the Pacquiao-Mayweather fight was almost sealed before a last-minute demand by the American for random testing derailed negotiations.
Known for his intense focus when in training, Pacquiao said he sees no conflict in his duties as a congressman and as a fighter.
Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/professional/professional/view/20100521-271181/Pacquiao-relents-on-pre-fight-tests
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Pacquiao visits Aquino, offers support
By Maila Ager
MANILA, Philippines – World Boxing champion and now Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao visited Senator Benigno Aquino III in his home Tuesday night, a spokesman for the winning presidential candidate said Wednesday.
“Manny Pacquiao paid a courtesy call to Aquino at his home in Times street last night together with his wife Jinkee and his entourage. They talked about the situation in Sarangani and he expressed his support for the President as a member of the House [of Representatives],” said Edwin Lacierda.
Aquino, in a text message to INQUIRER.net on Wednesday, confirmed the meeting, saying, "We met last night."
It was Pacquiao who sought the meeting with Aquino, according to sources who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to media.
The first source said the meeting lasted for only less than an hour.
But during the meeting, the same source said, Pacquiao made no explanation or offered no apologies to Aquino as to why he supported his rival in the presidential race, Senator Manny Villar.
"Walang paliwanag kung bakit nag Villar o nagpaumanhin. It was a friendly meeting [He did not offer any explanation or apology as to why he supported Villar]," said the source.
During the campaign, Pacquiao came out with a television advertisement criticizing Aquino, saying "Laban ng Laban wala namang napatunayan [Always fighting but has not proven anything]."
But this issue, the source said, did not crop up in the meeting.
The second source confirmed Lacierda’s statement, saying the discussion was only about Pacquiao's concerns in his province.
"Nakikipagkaibigan lang siya [Pacquiao]...He's reaching out," said the first source.
Asked why Aquino entertained Pacquiao despite his support for Villar during the elections, the source said, "He's just very polite."
Article Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20100519-270907/Pacquiao-visits-Aquino-offers-support
MANILA, Philippines – World Boxing champion and now Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao visited Senator Benigno Aquino III in his home Tuesday night, a spokesman for the winning presidential candidate said Wednesday.
“Manny Pacquiao paid a courtesy call to Aquino at his home in Times street last night together with his wife Jinkee and his entourage. They talked about the situation in Sarangani and he expressed his support for the President as a member of the House [of Representatives],” said Edwin Lacierda.
Aquino, in a text message to INQUIRER.net on Wednesday, confirmed the meeting, saying, "We met last night."
It was Pacquiao who sought the meeting with Aquino, according to sources who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to media.
The first source said the meeting lasted for only less than an hour.
But during the meeting, the same source said, Pacquiao made no explanation or offered no apologies to Aquino as to why he supported his rival in the presidential race, Senator Manny Villar.
"Walang paliwanag kung bakit nag Villar o nagpaumanhin. It was a friendly meeting [He did not offer any explanation or apology as to why he supported Villar]," said the source.
During the campaign, Pacquiao came out with a television advertisement criticizing Aquino, saying "Laban ng Laban wala namang napatunayan [Always fighting but has not proven anything]."
But this issue, the source said, did not crop up in the meeting.
The second source confirmed Lacierda’s statement, saying the discussion was only about Pacquiao's concerns in his province.
"Nakikipagkaibigan lang siya [Pacquiao]...He's reaching out," said the first source.
Asked why Aquino entertained Pacquiao despite his support for Villar during the elections, the source said, "He's just very polite."
Article Source: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20100519-270907/Pacquiao-visits-Aquino-offers-support
Monday, May 17, 2010
Pacquiao: Political win won't affect my ring performance
abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – Seven-division world champion Manny Pacquiao assured his fans that he can still fight in blockbuster bouts even if he takes on a new role as congressman of Sarangani Province.
In an Agence France-Presse article, Pacquiao said: “It just needs discipline. You just need time management.”
Pacquiao was proclaimed congressman-elect of Sarangani Province after scoring a landslide victory over Roy Chiongbian.
However, he said that boxing will have to take a back seat for the moment.
“For now, I will focus on service,” he declared.
“I am happy that I won and that people voted for me but it is also a great responsibility and so I must help my countrymen.”
The Ring Magazine pound-for-pound king said he plans to help his constituents by providing them with medical assistance, education and livelihood programs.
Fight for the country
Two sports analysts also believe that Pacquiao’s newfound job will not have much effect on his performance inside the boxing ring.
Bill Velasco and Boyet Sison, co-hosts of ANC’s “Hardball,” both think that even as Pacquiao functions as representative of Sarangani Province, the boxer will remain focused once he starts training again for a possible fight in November.
Velasco, who is also a sports columnist for The Philippine Star, said the boxing superstar can designate some of his work to his men. Continue reading here...
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MANILA, Philippines – Seven-division world champion Manny Pacquiao assured his fans that he can still fight in blockbuster bouts even if he takes on a new role as congressman of Sarangani Province.
In an Agence France-Presse article, Pacquiao said: “It just needs discipline. You just need time management.”
Pacquiao was proclaimed congressman-elect of Sarangani Province after scoring a landslide victory over Roy Chiongbian.
However, he said that boxing will have to take a back seat for the moment.
“For now, I will focus on service,” he declared.
“I am happy that I won and that people voted for me but it is also a great responsibility and so I must help my countrymen.”
The Ring Magazine pound-for-pound king said he plans to help his constituents by providing them with medical assistance, education and livelihood programs.
Fight for the country
Two sports analysts also believe that Pacquiao’s newfound job will not have much effect on his performance inside the boxing ring.
Bill Velasco and Boyet Sison, co-hosts of ANC’s “Hardball,” both think that even as Pacquiao functions as representative of Sarangani Province, the boxer will remain focused once he starts training again for a possible fight in November.
Velasco, who is also a sports columnist for The Philippine Star, said the boxing superstar can designate some of his work to his men. Continue reading here...
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Saturday, May 15, 2010
Khan overpowers Malignaggi in US boxing debut
Former British Olympian Amir Khan fashioned a stunning American debut, easily stopping Paulie Malignaggi in the 11th round of a one-sided fight .
The 23-year-old Khan retained his World Boxing Association super lightweight title with a technical knockout of Brooklyn native Malignaggi.
Khan (23-1, 17 KOs) was clearly the better fighter, landing jabs and head shots. Referee Steve Smoger finally stopped the bout at 1:25 of the 11th round after the 29-year-old Malignaggi failed to put up a defence.
"I think with my speed I can catch any fighter," Khan said. "I knew I was going to catch him and I could see him getting his head knocked back. I could see him get frustrated."
Malignaggi's face was swollen and he had to plead with the ringside doctor before the 11th round just to let him continue.
Malignaggi (27-4) didn't argue with the decision, tapping his chest and congratulating Khan on the win.
Up next in the 140 pound class for Khan could be fighters such as Marcos Maidana and fellow titleholders Timothy Bradley and Devon Alexander.
This was the second title defence for Khan, who landed 132 more punches than the American.
"He knows how to win rounds, man," Malignaggi said. "He has a lot of ability."
Read more at news.smh.com.au
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The 23-year-old Khan retained his World Boxing Association super lightweight title with a technical knockout of Brooklyn native Malignaggi.
Khan (23-1, 17 KOs) was clearly the better fighter, landing jabs and head shots. Referee Steve Smoger finally stopped the bout at 1:25 of the 11th round after the 29-year-old Malignaggi failed to put up a defence.
"I think with my speed I can catch any fighter," Khan said. "I knew I was going to catch him and I could see him getting his head knocked back. I could see him get frustrated."
Malignaggi's face was swollen and he had to plead with the ringside doctor before the 11th round just to let him continue.
Malignaggi (27-4) didn't argue with the decision, tapping his chest and congratulating Khan on the win.
Up next in the 140 pound class for Khan could be fighters such as Marcos Maidana and fellow titleholders Timothy Bradley and Devon Alexander.
This was the second title defence for Khan, who landed 132 more punches than the American.
"He knows how to win rounds, man," Malignaggi said. "He has a lot of ability."
Read more at news.smh.com.au
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Roach files libel rap for 'drug slurs' vs Pacquiao, Khan
abs-cbnNEWS.com
MANILA, Philippines – Prized boxing trainer Freddie Roach has filed a libel complaint against former world champion Paulie Malignaggi for his “drug slur” against superstar Manny Pacquiao and UK’s Amir Khan.
According to a report by Telegraph.co.uk’s Gareth Davies, Roach filed the libel rap against the former International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior welterweight champion several weeks ago for implying that Pacquiao and Khan might be using performance enhancing drugs (PEDs).
“Amir and Manny work with me and my trainers. I know what goes on in my gym and I've had enough of this rubbish. That's why we've issued a libel suit,” said Roach.
Malignaggi is set to battle Khan in New York City on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) for the World Boxing Association (WBA) junior welterweight title.
The boxers nearly came to blows during the official weigh-in on Friday (Saturday in Manila) when tension between the fighters and their entourages sparked a hysterical outbreak of pushing and shoving that security officers had to break up.
"Paulie brought it up that Amir might be on something because he trains with us. My guys are clean. It's an insult because the success of my fighters is down to hard work," said Roach.
Malignaggi has repeatedly been harping about Pacquiao possibly taking drugs since he has been able to beat bigger opponents like Miguel Cotto and Oscar de la Hoya.
“I'm not a complete idiot that just accuses people of something without having my reasons to believe what it is I'm saying,” Malignaggi said in an earlier report. Continue reading here
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MANILA, Philippines – Prized boxing trainer Freddie Roach has filed a libel complaint against former world champion Paulie Malignaggi for his “drug slur” against superstar Manny Pacquiao and UK’s Amir Khan.
According to a report by Telegraph.co.uk’s Gareth Davies, Roach filed the libel rap against the former International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior welterweight champion several weeks ago for implying that Pacquiao and Khan might be using performance enhancing drugs (PEDs).
“Amir and Manny work with me and my trainers. I know what goes on in my gym and I've had enough of this rubbish. That's why we've issued a libel suit,” said Roach.
Malignaggi is set to battle Khan in New York City on Saturday (Sunday in Manila) for the World Boxing Association (WBA) junior welterweight title.
The boxers nearly came to blows during the official weigh-in on Friday (Saturday in Manila) when tension between the fighters and their entourages sparked a hysterical outbreak of pushing and shoving that security officers had to break up.
"Paulie brought it up that Amir might be on something because he trains with us. My guys are clean. It's an insult because the success of my fighters is down to hard work," said Roach.
Malignaggi has repeatedly been harping about Pacquiao possibly taking drugs since he has been able to beat bigger opponents like Miguel Cotto and Oscar de la Hoya.
“I'm not a complete idiot that just accuses people of something without having my reasons to believe what it is I'm saying,” Malignaggi said in an earlier report. Continue reading here
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MORALES: Mayweather-Pacquiao must get done
By Robert Morales
source presstelegram.com
A lot happened during the first failed negotiations for a fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao. From insults to insinuations to accusations, these were not peace talks.
Pacquiao filed a defamation suit against Mayweather, his uncle and trainer, Roger; his father, Floyd Sr.; and Golden Boy executives Oscar De La Hoya and Richard Schaefer for comments about Pacquiao's possible use of performance-enhancing drugs.
(We accent the word "possible" because Pacquiao never tested positive for PEDs).
The contentious nature of the first round of discussions makes one wonder if a second round will bear fruit. Also, how bad would it be for boxing if it can't get the top two pound-for-pound fighters to square off in what would be one of the most anticipated fights in history and would break all monetary and pay-per-view records?
Bob Arum, who promotes Pacquiao, scoffed when asked about that.
"I don't want to dwell on the negative and I don't want to really answer that question that way," Arum said. "I would say it would be absolutely great for the sport for the fight to happen and it would focus the entire world's attention on the sport of boxing.
"That is the way I would look at that situation rather than look at how bad it would be if it didn't happen."
Schaefer likely will handle Mayweather's side - Golden Boy helps Mayweather promote his fights - and played his own game of dodge ball when the subject was broached.
"I would love to see it," Schaefer said. "But you don't always see Kobe and LeBron in the NBA Finals. You don't always see Brazil and Italy in the World Cup finals. We haven't seen the two best MMA pound-for-pound fighters against each other. And the list goes on and on.
"Would I love to see it? Absolutely."
Read more here...
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source presstelegram.com
A lot happened during the first failed negotiations for a fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao. From insults to insinuations to accusations, these were not peace talks.
Pacquiao filed a defamation suit against Mayweather, his uncle and trainer, Roger; his father, Floyd Sr.; and Golden Boy executives Oscar De La Hoya and Richard Schaefer for comments about Pacquiao's possible use of performance-enhancing drugs.
(We accent the word "possible" because Pacquiao never tested positive for PEDs).
The contentious nature of the first round of discussions makes one wonder if a second round will bear fruit. Also, how bad would it be for boxing if it can't get the top two pound-for-pound fighters to square off in what would be one of the most anticipated fights in history and would break all monetary and pay-per-view records?
Bob Arum, who promotes Pacquiao, scoffed when asked about that.
"I don't want to dwell on the negative and I don't want to really answer that question that way," Arum said. "I would say it would be absolutely great for the sport for the fight to happen and it would focus the entire world's attention on the sport of boxing.
"That is the way I would look at that situation rather than look at how bad it would be if it didn't happen."
Schaefer likely will handle Mayweather's side - Golden Boy helps Mayweather promote his fights - and played his own game of dodge ball when the subject was broached.
"I would love to see it," Schaefer said. "But you don't always see Kobe and LeBron in the NBA Finals. You don't always see Brazil and Italy in the World Cup finals. We haven't seen the two best MMA pound-for-pound fighters against each other. And the list goes on and on.
"Would I love to see it? Absolutely."
Read more here...
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Thursday, May 13, 2010
Promoter Bob Arum Calls Manny Pacquiao 'The Pinacle'
By Lem Satterfield
Bob Arum's nearly 43 years in boxing began with the Muhammad Ali victory over George Chuvalo, and it was his first of 26 fights involving the man many call "The Greatest."
A 78-year-old Harvard graduate and attorney, Arum also handled every fight of Marvelous Marvin Hagler's career, as well as substantial portions of those of Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, Oscar De La Hoya and Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Arum also helped to mastermind the comeback of George Foreman, who became the oldest man to win a heavyweight championship when he knocked out Michael Moorer in the 10th-round at the age of 45 in November of 1994.
But when it comes to experiences with fighters, there is nothing that ranks higher in Arum's stable than the promotional ride that he has taken with 31-year-old, Manny Pacquiao, a seven-division champion whose cross-over appeal has transformed him into an international super star.
"Muhammad Ali was a beloved figure in his prime, but also a reviled figure. There were people on both sides of the political spectrum, particularly regarding the war in Vietnam. The ones that opposed it loved Ali, and the ones who were in favor of it didn't," Arum told FanHouse during an interview in December.
"But until he was long-retired, Ali was never the universally admired figure in this country and around the world like Manny Pacquiao, who is someone different," said Arum. "Anybody who is aware of Manny Pacqiao loves him, admires him, and there are no haters. There is no right or left when it comes to Manny Pacquiao. That's made him a more, universally revered figure than Muhammad Ali."
Pacquiao is 51-3-2, with 38 knockouts, including victories in his past 12 consecutive match ups and eight knockouts during that time.
But the fight that would top off Arum's career, which is in its twilight, would be a megabout between unbeaten Floyd Mayweather (41-0, 25 KOs), and, Pacquiao.
It is a bout that stands to rake in upwards of $40 million for each combatant, making it the richest and most lucrative in the history of boxing.
A previous attempt at making Mayweather-Pacquiao for March 13 failed during a negotiations' impasse over random drug testing.
But during a national conference call on Wednesday, Arum said that he is motivated to be a part of one of the most significant fights of his time.
"Yeah, to be involved in a big fight like Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather," said Arum, "that would be one of the great experiences of my career."
Arum said that he has reserved the date of Nov. 13 for the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, and The Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
On March 13, Pacquiao scored a unanimous decision victory over Joshua Clottey (35-4, 20 KOs) in the first-ever boxing match to be held at The Dallas Cowboys' Stadium, earning $12 million before a crowd of 51,000.
Arum has regenerated the notion of bouts in outdoor stadiums, following up with a June 5, WBA junior middleweight (154 pounds) championship fight featuring titlist, Yuri Foreman (28-0, eight KOs), of Brooklyn, and, Puerto Rico's three-time, former world champion, Miguel Cotto, at the new Yankees' Stadium.
Billed as "The Stadium Slugfest," Foreman-Cotto marks the return of boxing to a Yankees' home stadium for the first time since Sept. 28, 1976, when Arum promoted Muhammed Ali's 15-round decision victory over Ken Norton at the original Yankees' Stadium.
"The stadiums are important because they enable the most possible people to watch the event. It's not unique to boxing. Look at the NCAA. The Regional finals and the Final Four, all now take place in massive venues," said Arum, whose milestone will be the first boxing event at the new Yankees Stadium.
Continue reading here
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Bob Arum's nearly 43 years in boxing began with the Muhammad Ali victory over George Chuvalo, and it was his first of 26 fights involving the man many call "The Greatest."
A 78-year-old Harvard graduate and attorney, Arum also handled every fight of Marvelous Marvin Hagler's career, as well as substantial portions of those of Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, Oscar De La Hoya and Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Arum also helped to mastermind the comeback of George Foreman, who became the oldest man to win a heavyweight championship when he knocked out Michael Moorer in the 10th-round at the age of 45 in November of 1994.
But when it comes to experiences with fighters, there is nothing that ranks higher in Arum's stable than the promotional ride that he has taken with 31-year-old, Manny Pacquiao, a seven-division champion whose cross-over appeal has transformed him into an international super star.
"Muhammad Ali was a beloved figure in his prime, but also a reviled figure. There were people on both sides of the political spectrum, particularly regarding the war in Vietnam. The ones that opposed it loved Ali, and the ones who were in favor of it didn't," Arum told FanHouse during an interview in December.
"But until he was long-retired, Ali was never the universally admired figure in this country and around the world like Manny Pacquiao, who is someone different," said Arum. "Anybody who is aware of Manny Pacqiao loves him, admires him, and there are no haters. There is no right or left when it comes to Manny Pacquiao. That's made him a more, universally revered figure than Muhammad Ali."
Pacquiao is 51-3-2, with 38 knockouts, including victories in his past 12 consecutive match ups and eight knockouts during that time.
But the fight that would top off Arum's career, which is in its twilight, would be a megabout between unbeaten Floyd Mayweather (41-0, 25 KOs), and, Pacquiao.
It is a bout that stands to rake in upwards of $40 million for each combatant, making it the richest and most lucrative in the history of boxing.
A previous attempt at making Mayweather-Pacquiao for March 13 failed during a negotiations' impasse over random drug testing.
But during a national conference call on Wednesday, Arum said that he is motivated to be a part of one of the most significant fights of his time.
"Yeah, to be involved in a big fight like Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather," said Arum, "that would be one of the great experiences of my career."
Arum said that he has reserved the date of Nov. 13 for the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, and The Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
On March 13, Pacquiao scored a unanimous decision victory over Joshua Clottey (35-4, 20 KOs) in the first-ever boxing match to be held at The Dallas Cowboys' Stadium, earning $12 million before a crowd of 51,000.
Arum has regenerated the notion of bouts in outdoor stadiums, following up with a June 5, WBA junior middleweight (154 pounds) championship fight featuring titlist, Yuri Foreman (28-0, eight KOs), of Brooklyn, and, Puerto Rico's three-time, former world champion, Miguel Cotto, at the new Yankees' Stadium.
Billed as "The Stadium Slugfest," Foreman-Cotto marks the return of boxing to a Yankees' home stadium for the first time since Sept. 28, 1976, when Arum promoted Muhammed Ali's 15-round decision victory over Ken Norton at the original Yankees' Stadium.
"The stadiums are important because they enable the most possible people to watch the event. It's not unique to boxing. Look at the NCAA. The Regional finals and the Final Four, all now take place in massive venues," said Arum, whose milestone will be the first boxing event at the new Yankees Stadium.
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Monday, May 3, 2010
Pacquiao says he'll agree to drug testing with a 24-day cutoff
The biggest fight in boxing is now on the table.
Manny Pacquiao dominated Joshua Clottey over 12 rounds at Cowboys Stadium in March. Floyd Mayweather Jr., dominated Shane Mosley on Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
There are two issues at hand in the Mayweather-Pacquiao negotiations: the issue of money and the random Olympic-style drug testing. The two sides sat down earlier this year and the two fighters could not agree on the cut-off date for the random drug testing. Following Saturday's win over Mosley, Mayweather said the Pacquiao fight could not be made without Olympic-style drug testing.
"If Manny Pacquiao can take a blood and urine test then we have a fight,'' Mayweather said. "If not, no fight.''
According to several reports, Pacquiao watched the fight in the Philippines and afterwards spoke to Manilla radio station DZBB. Pacquiao said that he's willing to agree to the random blood testing, but only if the testing has a cutoff date of 24 days.
"For me, as long as the drug test is not done close to the match, I'll agree because if they'll get blood from me close to the match, it will be a disadvantage for me because I'm smaller and he's big,'' Pacquiao said.
Read More: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/mma/boxing/05/02/pacquiao.mayweather/#ixzz0mqd2zso0
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Manny Pacquiao dominated Joshua Clottey over 12 rounds at Cowboys Stadium in March. Floyd Mayweather Jr., dominated Shane Mosley on Saturday night at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.
There are two issues at hand in the Mayweather-Pacquiao negotiations: the issue of money and the random Olympic-style drug testing. The two sides sat down earlier this year and the two fighters could not agree on the cut-off date for the random drug testing. Following Saturday's win over Mosley, Mayweather said the Pacquiao fight could not be made without Olympic-style drug testing.
"If Manny Pacquiao can take a blood and urine test then we have a fight,'' Mayweather said. "If not, no fight.''
According to several reports, Pacquiao watched the fight in the Philippines and afterwards spoke to Manilla radio station DZBB. Pacquiao said that he's willing to agree to the random blood testing, but only if the testing has a cutoff date of 24 days.
"For me, as long as the drug test is not done close to the match, I'll agree because if they'll get blood from me close to the match, it will be a disadvantage for me because I'm smaller and he's big,'' Pacquiao said.
Read More: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/mma/boxing/05/02/pacquiao.mayweather/#ixzz0mqd2zso0
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Saturday, May 1, 2010
Mayweather dominates Mosley, stays unbeaten
LAS VEGAS -- Floyd Mayweather Jr. is usually content to just win a fight. This time, though, Money Mayweather wanted to earn his cash.
Fighting more aggressively than usual, Mayweather overcame a near knockdown in the second round Saturday night to dominate the rest of the way and win a lopsided 12-round decision over Shane Mosley in their welterweight showdown.
"I wanted to give the fans what they wanted to see, a toe-to-toe battle," Mayweather said. "It wasn't the same style for me but I wanted to be aggressive and I knew I could do it."
Boxing's biggest box office draw remained undefeated in 41 fights, but not before giving his fans and his corner a scare when a right hand to the side of his head buckled his knees a minute into the second, and he had to grab Mosley to avoid going down. Mosley landed another right later in the round, but the rest of the night belonged to Mayweather.
If he didn't please everyone, it was because he couldn't knock out Mosley. But Mayweather won every minute of every round after the second and the normally defensive-minded fighter kept after Mosley until the final bell in a masterful performance that earned him every dollar of his guaranteed $22.5 million payday.
"I think we could have pressed the attack a lot earlier, and then we could have got the knockout," Mayweather said.
Read more at forbes.com
Watch Online of the Mayweather-Mosley boxing fight at Boxing Live.
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Fighting more aggressively than usual, Mayweather overcame a near knockdown in the second round Saturday night to dominate the rest of the way and win a lopsided 12-round decision over Shane Mosley in their welterweight showdown.
"I wanted to give the fans what they wanted to see, a toe-to-toe battle," Mayweather said. "It wasn't the same style for me but I wanted to be aggressive and I knew I could do it."
Boxing's biggest box office draw remained undefeated in 41 fights, but not before giving his fans and his corner a scare when a right hand to the side of his head buckled his knees a minute into the second, and he had to grab Mosley to avoid going down. Mosley landed another right later in the round, but the rest of the night belonged to Mayweather.
If he didn't please everyone, it was because he couldn't knock out Mosley. But Mayweather won every minute of every round after the second and the normally defensive-minded fighter kept after Mosley until the final bell in a masterful performance that earned him every dollar of his guaranteed $22.5 million payday.
"I think we could have pressed the attack a lot earlier, and then we could have got the knockout," Mayweather said.
Read more at forbes.com
Watch Online of the Mayweather-Mosley boxing fight at Boxing Live.
P.S.
Join me at PEOPLESTRING.COM
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