SOLAR SPORTS is a known risk-taker just like its newest baby, boxing idol Manny Pacquiao.
On April 14 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, Solar Sports will bring Pacquiao’s bout with unbeaten Mexican Jorge Solis via GMA channel 7 and in classy movie theaters in partnership with SM Cinemas, Robinson’s and Ayala Malls.
Pressed for comment regarding the astronomical $ 800,000 that will be paid to Pacquiao for the rights to air the scheduled 12-rounder to the Philippines, Solar Sports chief operating officer Peter Chanliong said the Filipino daredevil “is worth every penny.”
“It is not our policy to reveal figures but Manny Pacquiao is worth every penny,” said Chanliong during yesterday’s press conference formally announcing Solar’s tieup with GMA at theDiamond Hotel.
“Whatever amount it is, it is worth every penny,” added Chanliong, who formalized Solar’s acquisition of the TV rights in General Santos, a week before Pacquiao flew to Los Angeles to resume his training at the Wild Card Boxing Club.
Solar Sports was awarded the rights to air the Pacquiao-Solis showdown after ABS-CBN channel 2 wasn’t willing to cough out a reported $ 800,000.
ABS-CBN had paid Pacquiao $ 200,000 when Pacquiao fought Erik Morales for the third time.
The company’s executives believe they have what it takes to profit from this bold undertaking although they would still be happy if they “break even.”
Solar Sports is one of three outfits that have gotten itself involved in airing Pacquiao’s fights in the US.
First, it was Viva Sports that acquired rights to show Pacquiao’s fights when it only paid ,000 to air Pacquiao’s US debut against Lehlo Ledwaba in June 2001.
The stock of Pacquiao rose dramatically after that auspicious win and Solar was able to enter the scene shortly after a few more fights under Viva when it beat the opposition to the draw by airing Pacquiao’s epic victory over Marco Antonio Barrera at the Alamodome in Nov. 2003.
Solar Sports is back and it is hoping that its return to the Alamodome would reap dividends.
