MANILA–World Boxing Association welterweight champion Lucas “La
Maquina” Matthysse is set to arrive in Manila on April 18 to formally
accept the challenge of eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao at the
City of Dreams Grand Ballroom here.
Pacquiao, the challenger, expressed his elation as his MP Promotions
company has completed preparations for the two-city press conference
and media tour ending in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 20.
Dubbed “Fight of Champions,” the mega-fight will usher in Pacquiao’s
debut as a fight promoter at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur
featuring three other world title fights in the undercard.
“It is all systems go for the Pacquiao Vs Matthysse fight,” said
Pacquiao, who is hoping to equal if not surpass the expectations
leading to the grandiose Muhammad Ali-Joe Bugner fight which was also
held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in July 1975.
“We have assembled the biggest fight card Malaysia has been waiting
for in the last 43 years since Ali-Bugner,” added Pacquiao.
Matthysse, the dangerous 36-year-old champion from Argentina who
tallied 36 knockouts out of his 39 wins, and against only four losses,
has started training with Joel Diaz. Diaz also trained Timothy
Bradley, whom Pacquiao has faced thrice in the past.
“This is the fight I have always wanted. The opportunity to fight a
future Hall of Famer such as Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao inspires me to
work harder than ever to earn a victory for my fans. I know that it
will not be easy. But I will defend my title with honor and represent
my country Argentina with pride,” said Matthysse.
Pacquiao is also set to welcome Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO
Oscar Dela Hoya, the promoter of Matthysse. “This early, we would like
to thank the people who have made this event happen and I thank all
boxing fans for their support,” said Pacquiao.
Pacquiao will be joined by his new promotions team along with trainers
Restituto “Buboy” Fernandez and Raides “Nonoy” Neri.
