There is nothing quite like the anticipation that takes place during the week of a big fight. Boxing is a sport different than any other in that there are several events and festivities that surround the fight itself, all building up the excitement and hype towards the contest.
Despite being four days away from the WBO Welterweight title fight between Manny Pacquiao and Joshua Clottey at Dallas Cowboys Stadium, there seems to be a buzz already picking up in the city as the main event fighters as well as some key undercard pugilists have already made their presence known.
Top Rank photographer Chris Farina has been charting the moves of Pacquiao, Clottey, and Humberto Soto, who squares off with former champion David Diaz as a key undercard attraction. The Las Vegas based photographer insists that all of the pre fight festivities serve towards a build up of the event itself. Below are some of the telling storylines and images from Dallas this week.
Pacquiao’s arrival and early morning run
Late last night Manny Pacquiao arrived in Dallas and was greeted by promoter Bob Arum. Pacquiao could also be seen exchanging some serious words with trainer Freddie Roach later on in the evening. Along with Pacquiao was his wife Jinkee, who will be showing her husband support during the contest. For the past eight plus years of his life Pacquiao has found himself in huge championship showdowns and the responsibilities of fight week is nothing new to him at this point.
Early this morning Pacquiao went running with dog ‘Pacman’ at nearby Mustang-Panther Stadium. Wearing a bright red, custom suit from Nike, Pacquiao seems to be in good spirits as he put in his work while also stopping to smile and enjoy the moment. The workout typically taper off during fight week, as the focus simply turns to making sure the fighter’s mental state is in the right frame of mind. From the looks of things Pacquiao seems to be ready to go.
To see images of Pacquiao’s arrival and early morning run click HERE
Clottey talks to the media
It has been no secret that Accra, Ghana’s Joshua Clottey is looked at the outsider in this contest, as the -800 odds against him reflect such a reality. Despite being considered one of the world’s top five Welterweights, Clottey is going up against a whirlwind of a fighter who has been on a menacing tear and seems to be improving with each contest.
Despite all of that Clottey has exuded a striking confidence heading into the contest and could be found talking to the press yesterday during Media day in Dallas. Clottey has answered a variety of questions, from his confusion in the corner, his thoughts on Pacquiao, and his chances during the contest. By all accounts Clottey had a solid training period in South Florida and he should present a serious test for Pacquiao on Saturday night.
To see images of Clottey speaking to the media and working out please click HERE
Humberto Soto going for Lightweight glory
Since upsetting Rocky Juarez in August of 2005, Los Mochis’ Humberto Soto has been one of the more overlooked prizefighters in the sport of boxing. Combining excellent range, solid skills, and a willingness to mix it up on the inside, the former WBC Jr. Lightweight champion will be attempting to win a belt in a second weight class when he meets former champion David Diaz for the WBC Lightweight strap on Saturday night. It’s a big opportunity for Soto and he gave his thoughts to the press yesterday.
