Who?s next? With Pacquiao?s resounding victory over David Diaz, many are wondering who?s next for the Filipino champion. Trainer Freddie Roach said Ricky Hatton at 140 pounds is an option for next year (Hatton is set to fi ght Paulie Malignaggi this fall) in New York. Also, undefeated Edwin Valero of Venezuela but he might not be cleared to fi ght in Nevada. Pinoy power:
Besides Manny Pacquiao, another Filipino fi ghter made an impressive showing during the undercard at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino last Saturday. Dennis Laurente of Palompon, Leyte, Philippines knocked down Steve Quinonez twice in the fourth round before referee Kenny Bayless called off the fi ght. Laurente landed a solid right hook to Quinonez?s chin for the first knockdown. A few seconds later, Laurente dropped Quinonez again with a left cross to the head.
Sorry Laker fans:
Fresh from their NBA title victory earlier this month, members of the Boston Celtics team were in attendance watching the Pacquiao vs. Diaz fight. Pacquiao was very well aware of their attendance. At the post fight press conference, Pacquiao said “I?m so happy not only because I won tonight but the Boston Celtics were here watching me fight.”
Other star sightings
: Apl. de.Ap and Will.I.Am of Black Eyed Peas, Mike Tyson, WBC Champion Andre Berto, Nicole Angela, and the Pussy Cat Dolls. Where are the Mexicans? Unlike Pacquiao?s previous fights with Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Juan Manuel Marquez, there were no flag wearing and bearing Mexicans among the crowd. The Mexican anthem was not sung pre-fight.
Low attendance:
The announced 8,362 in attendance were nearly 1,000 less than Pacquiao?s fight against Juan Manuel Marquez in March. Arum blamed the high gas prices.
After party:
After the fight, Pacquiao fans celebrated at Club MIX in Mandalay Bay. Those who couldn?t get in, attended the Main Events Party at Rum Jungle. (AJ)
