MANILA, Philippines — While the actual bout has yet to happen, the fight between two tough sluggers has started a few days from the actual event scheduled June 28 in Las Vegas (June 29 in Manila).
Filipino boxer and modern-day hero Manny ?Pacman? Pacquiao is set to fight US-born fighter David Diaz in Mandalay Bay and Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Pacquiao has already won several belts under different weight classes, and is ready to take on the bigger — that is, in physical size — World Boxing Council lightweight champion Diaz in a 12-round fight that is expected to attract million of viewers worldwide.
Freddie Roach, Pacquiao’s trainer, has already made a prediction that Diaz needs a “miracle” to defeat the Filipino fighter. But analysts and observers have countered and said that Diaz is a big hitter that has more heft than Pacquiao. Jim Strickland, Diaz’s trainer, warned Pacquiao not to discount his fighter.
Pacquiao has decided to move up to the 135-pound weight class to face Diaz whose heft is now being touted as his strength. Meanwhile, boxing analysts said Pacquiao’s speed and strong punches remain his advantage.
Veteran Vic Drakulich was already appointed as the third man in the ring when the fight starts between Pacquiao and Diaz.
Judging the fight are CJ Ross, Gary Meritt and Paul Smith, according to the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
For updates about the fight, you can check out the Pacquiao Files or follow a blow-by-blow account on our Twitter page for the Pacquiao Files.
You can also catch the breaking news, running account and video clips about the fight from the Pacquiao Files.
