LAS VEGAS — More than 20 years ago at the same hotel property where his legend was born, Manny Pacquiao spoke about his extraordinary longevity in the run-up to this weekend’s big fight at the T-Mobile Arena.
Arriving here early Monday night from Los Angeles, Pacquiao wondered aloud about his journey from a last-minute replacement to becoming a marquee name in the world’s biggest stage.
“I can never imagine that this would happen to me. I can’t imagine what I have done,” Pacquiao said five days before he shoots for the World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight crown of Cuban Yordenis Ugas.
“After 20 years, I am still here and still strong so I believe that’s God-given.”
There were times when it appeared his era had come to an abrupt end but Pacquiao managed to weather storm after storm.
“Look at all my contemporaries. They have all retired.”
Pacquiao turned professional in 1995 and has since amassed a record of 62-7-2 with 39 knockouts.
Now pushing 43, Pacquiao remains among the world’s most respected boxers on the strength of his long list of victims, many of whom he would join in the Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York.
Pacquiao grinned when reminded of his first time in one of the basic rooms of the MGM Grand.
Now, that type of room is home to his bevy of friends and followers who have either flown from the Philippines or across the vast American continent.
“That’s totally different,” Pacquiao said when told about his smashing US debut against Lehlo Ledwaba to win the International Boxing Federation super-bantamweight crown.
Holding court like royalty in one of the hotel’s super-luxurious suites, Pacquiao said he is right on track for Ugas, who was called in to replace the indisposed Errol Spence.
Even a major concern in the last few days before the bout, Pacquiao swears everything is in order and his buildup is right on track.
In fact, Pacquiao wolfed down a meal that was prepared for him by members of his staff and showed his satisfaction by rubbing his tummy.
“I am full. I ate a lot,” Pacquiao said.
The division limit is 147 lbs.
“I am 150 (lbs) right now because of the amount of food that I ate but that’s okay. No worries,” he said.
With Pacquiao already settling down in Sin City, he and Ugas are scheduled to take part in the traditional Grand Arrivals at the Toshiba Plaza late afternoon of Tuesday followed by the press conference on Wednesday and the official weigh-in on Friday.
These events, once open to the public, are now going to be held without fans in attendance owing to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Ugas battle will be Pacquiao’s first ring appearance in over two years.
Last time he fought, Pacquiao slammed Keith Thurman.
Again, Pacquiao is out to prove that he still has it and that his time is not yet up.
