LOS ANGELES, California, United States of America — The fistic war will be won on the power of punches, not with the quality of gloves, but Manny Pacquiao yesterday lost some perceived points when the Nevada State Athletic Commission suddenly ruled in favor of Erik Morales and ordered both combatants to use the thickly padded Winning brand for their March 19 showdown.
In a stunning twist, Pacquiao was disallowed the use of the Cleto Reyes gloves which he has worn since he started his successful stint here in the United States in 2001.
Trainer Freddie Roach, visibly displeased, yesterday bared he has received a call from Nevada State Athletic Commissioner Marc Ratner withdrawing the permission previously granted Pacquiao to wear the thinner Mexican-made Reyes brand.
As stated in the fight contract, which the commission brought out at the last minute, both boxers will don the Winning (not Winnings as previously reported) gloves that Morales has originally chosen.
“We cannot do anything about it; a contract reads as a contract reads,” Roach told the Inquirer as he watched Pacquiao spar before a big crowd wearing the Winning brand.
How come Morales was allowed his choice when he’s no longer a champion?
“Manny could use the Reyes gloves, but as it turned out, when Bob Arum negotiated with Murad (Muhammad), they agreed to what Morales liked,” Roach explained.
Roach rued that Murad made a crucial move “without asking anybody.”
Roach admitted Pacquiao was not familiar with the required Winning gear but they have bought a pair and the famous fighter has been trying it.
“It’s definitely thicker,” Roach said.
Roach said Pacquiao had told him the last-minute change does not matter.
But on Friday, Roach bared with visible gladness that Pacquiao had been allowed to use the fight gear of his preference.
Although Pacquiao would not admit it, he had been bothered by reports that he too would be required to use the gloves of Morales’ choice.
Team Pacquiao felt the thicker pads of Winning could lessen the impact of Pacquiao’s feared power punches.
Roach had surmised Morales insisted on the Winning gloves because the Mexican warrior needed more cushion for his brittle hands.
Pacquiao did not appear the least bothered by the reversal as he thrilled fans at the Wild Card Boxing Club where he sparred for six rounds, including a colorful, witty session with world 122-lb champ Israel Vasquez.
It was an open day at Wild Card and Pacquiao took time out to autograph his T-shirts which an enterprising assistant marketed for $20 each.
Pacquiao has invited Filipino Luisito Espinosa to attend the fight after the former world champion called from San Francisco.
Pacquiao continued to be besieged by fans and friends asking for tickets.
He spars for a final three rounds Monday before heading for fight-site Las Vegas.
