The Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) training headquarters in Baguio can play a big part in Manny Pacquiao’s preparation for Mexican Oscar Larios, who the Filipino slugger locks horns with on July 2 at the Araneta Coliseum.
This was revealed by ABAP chief Manny Lopez upon learning that Pacquiao’s handlers are looking for a site to put up a makeshift training camp in the City of Pines.
”The ABAP training center in Baguio is well-equipped. The facilities there are complete,” said Lopez. ”I would like to offer it to Pacquiao and the (amateur) boxers there would be willing to give way when he gets in.”
Pacquiao’s chief backer, San Miguel Corp., said it would look for a venue where it could bring in imported boxing equipment such as a ring, punching bag, speed ball and double-end bag for Pacquiao’s use for an estimated four weeks.
Lopez said the ABAP gym at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex pales in comparison with that of its Baguio counterpart.
”Malayong-malayo sa ganda at dami ng gamit ng Manila gym compared with the one in Baguio,” said Lopez. ”Manny has the gym all for himself everyday during his training schedule.”
Actually, Pacquiao will begin his training on May 8 at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood, where he and Freddie Roach will come up with a gameplan aimed at negating the height advantage and aggressive fighting style of the 5-9 Larios.
Pacquiao leaves for the US on May 4 or 5. (Nick Giongco)
