WILL David Diaz finally end Manny Pacquiao?s string of victories against the sons of Mexico?
The reigning World Boxing Council champion will tangle up with Pacquiao in his second defense of his crown this June 28 (June 29, RP time) in Las Vegas.
Aside from stopping Pacquiao (46-3-2, 35 KOs) from his quest from becoming the first Asian to win four belts in four different weight divisions, Diaz, who sent Erik Morales to retirement also carries Mexico?s need for vengeance in his shoulders.
In a recent media conference call, a transcript of which was published by Philboxing.com, Diaz was asked if he felt a patriotic duty to win the fight for Mexico considering Pacquiao?s successes against Mexican fighters:
?I definitely do. This fight is dedicated to Mexico and the Mexicans who are here in the US Even here in Chicago the guys that come up to me?the Mexican guys, they?re like, come on David, you got to do it, you?re our last draw,? Diaz said.
Pacquiao also forced Marco Antonio Barrera to retire in the 11th round of their first fight in 2003, while winning by decision in their rematch. After a draw in their first fight, Pacquiao got a controversial majority win against Juan Manuel Marquez. He also battered Morales twice in their three fights.
Aside from the three, other Mexicans who lost to Pacquiao are Jorge Solis (8th round KO), Oscar Larios (UD) and Hector Velazquez (6th round KO).
He also defeated Emmanuel Lucero (3rd round KO) and Jorge Julio (2nd round KO) in his IBF super bantamweight title defenses prior to the Barrera fight.
Meanwhile, Diaz, who started training for this fight earlier than Pacquiao sees conditioning, and not his being a lightweight longer than Manny has, as the biggest factor in the fight.
?I think we?re going to match up pretty much the same. I looked at him and he walks around pretty heavy, so he feels comfortable there. I don?t think it?s much of a difference; I think what?s going to matter more is the conditioning. Whoever is in top condition is going to end up winning this fight,? he said.
