This morning at the Fort, Fahsan 3K Battery climbed the scales ahead of Manny Pacquiao and tipped at 124 lbs. Manny followed shortly and the scales’ arrow pointed to 125 to the applause of the crowd who had in mind Manny’s announced weight of 129 the previous day.
The official weigh-in was supervised by Philippine Games and Amusements Board (GAB) Chairman Eduardo Villanueva together with GAB Commissioner Angel Bautista, Boxing Chief Noli Flores, ring physician Nasser Cruz and other GAB officials who made sure that the rumble would push through. Chairman Villanueva then conferred with the assigned ring officials for the rules of the bout.
Also present during the weigh-in were promoter Murad Muhammad, Pacquiao’s business manager Rod Nazario, trainer Freddie Roach and Fahsan’s manager and handlers.
The Pacquiao-Fahsan fight is scheduled for 12 rounds. Both fighters being heavy hitters, many believe it will end much earlier than that.
On the under-card, Philippine Lightweight champion Fernanco Montilla, who has specially prepared for this defense of his title by being one of the Manny’s sparring partners, squares off against challenger Ray Almonicar. WBO #6 bantamweight Z Gorres stakes his rating against Thai Chaiyong Distar. Why Gorres is rated as a bantamweight is a puzzle since Gorres is only a super-flyweight.
Official weights for the undercard are:
12 rounds – Fernando Montilla, 133 vs. Ray Almonicar, 132
10 rounds – Z Gorres, 114 vs. Chaiyong Distar, 113
10 rounds – Arnel Porras, 127 vs. Dexter Delada, 129
On the eve of this IBF eliminator fight between Pacquiao and Fahsan, the rumblings are starting to be felt. When they met near the weighing scale, Fahsan offered his hand to shake Manny’s hand which the latter gladly accepted. It will be different come fight night. After the customary touching of gloves before the bell rings to usher in the first round, expect a trading of bombs that will surely produce a “Yanig” sa Taguig!
