THE FIRST time Top Rank big boss Bob Arum heard about plans to abort the showing of Manny Pacquiao’s April 14 fight against Mexican Jorge Solis in San Antonio, Texas, the Harvard-educated lawyer thought it was incorrect.
But when told about the authenticity of threats from Pacquiao’s political rival in the Philippines to prevent the airing on television and in theaters, Arum was flabbergasted and also amused that incumbent South Cotabato Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio is going to that extent.
“She’s out of her mind,” said Arum yesterday from Las Vegas. “She’s gone nuts. It’s hilarious.”
The congresswoman, through her counsel Sixto Brillantes, doesn’t only want to stop the airing but to limit the publication of Pacquiao’s exploits in preparation for the Solis bout that will be held at the Alamodome.
Solar Sports holds the right to the fight and aside from tying up with GMA channel 7, the TV blocktimer is also showing the fight in cinemas.
Tickled by the latest twist in Pacquiao’s decision to run for congress in the May 14 polls, Arum said he’s going to stage an all-out media campaign (in the US). Arum said that Pacquiao campaign posters and other materials will be distributed to fans who are going to troop to the Alamodome on fight night.
“Nalulungkot ako na pati ang laban ko ay gusto nilang pigilan at ginagawa nilang personalan ang labanan,” said Pacquiao from Los Angeles, where he’s been training since March 19.
“Sana naman ay huwag nilang ipagkait ang kaunting ligaya sa ating mga kababayan,” added Pacquiao, whose fights have shattered viewership ratings through the years.
Antonino-Custodio, who is seeking her third and final term as representative of the first district of South Cotabato composed of General Santos City and the towns of Polomolok, Tampakan and Tupi, is batting for equal media mileage.
The City of Manila, meanwhile, will put up three viewing stations for the Pacquiao-Solis slugfest with the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and the San Andres Sports Complex as venues.
“It’s going to be shown live without (commercial) interruptions,” said newly-designated Masco chief Arsenic Lacson.
The promise of watching the fight live is expected to be a sure-hit since entrance to closed circuit venues commands a hefty price of R500.
“This is our offering to Manilans because Pacquiao’s feats provide inspiration especially for the youth,” said Manila mayoralty candidate Ali Atienza.
