I?LL probably pass up this opportunity to watch Manny Pacquiao kick Floyd Mayweather?s butt up close.
First off, since the tickets are quite pricey, my best shot is to get accredited as part the media officially covering the fight. This way, since I?ll be covering the fight for Sun.Star Cebu I will be given a media credential and therefore, won?t be needing a ticket.
Now, this alone is not a cinch because of the numerous media outlets who will be covering the biggest fight in boxing history and the limited slots available.
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Boxing magazines, sports rags, television networks, fight websites from all over the wold?they will all be sending their guys to cover the fight.
Sun.Star Cebu is a community paper with the widest circulation in the country, but in terms of significance, we pale in comparison to the sports-exclusive media organizations that will be fighting for elbow room.
Still, I wanted to hold out for hope, but when I realized that it was Mayweather Promotions in charge of the credentials, I knew it was probably best that I stay put.
This early, reports have been coming out alleging discrimination and selective treatment in the media accreditation process.
Worse, Philboxing founder and owner Dong Secuya informed me that in case I get my accreditation there is no assurance that I would be able to watch it ringside. Ergo, there?s a chance that I?ll be ushered into a room with the other not-so-important media people, and watching the proceedings onscreen.
Well, no way am I traveling all the way to Las Vegas, USA just to watch Manny and Floyd duke it out on a screen when I can do that same thing here.
Bottom line? No ticket, no trip.
So I?m sitting my ass right here. I?ll be doing the post-fight analysis online for Sun. Star Cebu and I?ll also be giving commentary on the fight for the hottest station in creation, Y101.
CALENDAR. On the brighter side, I?ll be flying to our country?s capital this weekend to cover Pinoy Pride 30 featuring Donnie Nietes and Nonito Donaire.
It doesn?t really get any bigger than this. The two most popular fighters in Philippine boxing, outside of Manny Pacquiaom, all in one fight card.
Nietes will be defending his WBO light flyweight crown against Gilbert Parra of Mexico. Parra is a banger with a record of 19 -2, with 17 via the short route.
He likes to trade shots with his opponents and carries some serious pop on those fists. This should be an interesting fight. But as long as Donnie stays out of range, I predict him to box Parra?s ears silly and win via unanimous decision.
Donaire (33-3, 21KOs) is admittedly taking it easy for his comeback fight. He will be matched up against William Prado (22-4, 15KOs) for the vacant NABF super bantamweight title.
I expect Donaire to follow through on his promise to box more and not rely too much on his power. Of course, I also expect him to eventually unleash that booming left hook and end the fight prematurely.
On March 31, we will be holding our SAC-SMB Sports Awards for the best of Cebu sports for the year 2014.
We hold this prestigious event annually as we want to recognize the athletes that brought pride and glory to Cebu.
Be there at the Ayala Activity Center if you want to hobnob with Cebu?s best athletes.
LAST ROUND. It?s on a dear friend who is an inspiration and joy to most women, Joan Avenido-Arevalo who recently celebrated her birthday. Cheers!
