Based on their respective biographies and track records, Bob Arum and Jerry Jones love nothing more than a challenge.
So to these two rich guys and sporting giants, one from pro football and one from boxing, I lay down a challenge.
I am challenging Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys and that swanky, new stadium in Arlington, Tx., to match Arum’s generous gesture towards the rebuilding of earthquake racked Haiti.
Top Rank chief Arum said the company would donate $1 from every ticket it sells through the end of the year to aid for Haiti.
The plan will start with a featherweight card at Madison Square Garden on Saturday, where a turnout of about 5,000 is expected.
“For a fight like this, it might be a few thousand, but for March 13 it could be 40 or 50,000,” Arum said.
On March 13, Filipino hero Manny Pacquiao takes on US-based Ghanian Joshua Clottey at the $1.2 billion-dollar Cowboys Stadium.
Top Rank (Chris Farina) Photo
So why wouldn’t Jones, a great promoter in his own right, want to match Uncle Bob and match at least dollar for dollar what the fight promoter will give to Haiti aid?
Then all boxing fans, and I bet there will be 40,000 in the house to watch Manny and Joshua plus Mexican star Antonio Margarito, can know that two bucks out of their ticket cost is going to Haiti.
It sets a great tone for what should be a historic night for boxing, what with the Pinoy Idol performing before by far the largest crowd to see him, in his 56th professional bout.
Top Rank (Chris Farina) Photo
The facility, home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys , is being configured for 40,000 fans, but can seat more depending on demand.
Arum said he wasn’t sure how many tickets would be sold the rest of the year because there is no accurate way to predict how many shows will be put together, who will headline the shows and where they will take place.
“Hopefully, other promoters will join us,” Arum said.
I wouldn’t be surprised to if Jones decides not only to match Arum but to up the ante.
Anyway it goes, the beleaguered people of Haiti will be the winners for a change.
And so will Arum and Jones, as per usual.
