SECURITY IS going to be tightened when Manny Pacquiao begins his month-long training in Baguio City in preparation for a tune-up but dangerous fight with Mexican Oscar Larios in late-June or early-July at the Araneta Coliseum.
A Pacquiao insider said on Friday night that the Filipino boxing star will stay in a San Miguel Corporation-owned property there where a ring will be put up and top-of-the-line equipment will also be installed.
“Getting inside where Pacquiao is going to stay won’t be easy,” said the Pacquiao aide. “Those planning to get inside and see him might even be issued credentials.”
Joining Pacquiao in training camp will be American cornerman Freddie Roach, who has been informed about the arrangements in the City of Pines.
Pacquiao said he won’t take Larios or any other foe lightly since “all of them would like to have me as victim.”
“I will train hard because my opponent will be motivated,” said Pacquiao when he dropped by the PSC-POC Media Center at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex on Friday night.
“Everyone’s after me” added Pacquiao after consuming a plateful of steamed rice, noodles, vegetables and beef stew and avoiding lechon.
Larios is being eyed to come over to Manila to engage Pacquiao in a tenrounder that is expected to be one of the biggest events for the year.
ABS-CBN is spearheading the promotion although Pacquiao’s own outfit and beefed up by associate Wakee Salud is going to take charge of boxing matters.
The Manila fight is going to be used as a buildup to the rubber match with Erik “El Terrible” Morales before the year ends.
Pacquiao and Morales split their first two fights with the Mexican taking the first bout on points and the Filipino exacting payback in the rematch with a vicious 10th round knockout win.
