Florham Park, NJ, January 23, 2004 ? Since the beginning of the year, promoter Murad Muhammad, who handles superstar Manny Pacquiao, has been negotiating tirelessly for the Philippino?s next fight. He has had discussions with Golden Boy Promotions over a possible fight with WBC Super Bantamweight champion Oscar Larios, and with promoter Bob Arum for possible fights against former champion Paulie Ayala or IBF Featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez. Muhammad has been annoyed by Internet reports stating that HBO has yet to choose an opponent for his champion.
?HBO does not pick opponents for Manny Pacquiao or any other fighter,? said Muhammad. ?HBO trusts my expertise and experience and know that I?m looking for the best opponent possible for Manny.? Although he feels that HBO deems all three worthy opponents, Muhammad wants to make it clear he?s looking for the opponent who will generate the most money for Pacquiao. ?My fighter does not care who or where, but who would get him the bigger payday,? says Muhammad. ?I?m waiting for Manny?s manager, Rod Nazario, to come to the US so that we can make a final decision. Until then, nothing is set as far as to whom Manny Pacquiao?s fighting, when he?s fighting or where.?
