By Norm Frauenheim-

LAS VEGAS – Manny Pacquiao stepped off the scale, walked to the edge of the stage and winked. Then, he waved.

Weigh-ins are nothing if not about body language. In a week full of talk about whether Pacquiao is on the eve of his last fight, one wave Friday was enough for endless speculation and interpretation.

Was this one more goodbye wave? All week long, he has been dropping hints that he might be moving on.

Or was he just saying hello? Just Manny being Manny.

Or was the gesture a mocking way of saying that he intends to make Yordenis Ugas go bye-bye Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in a pay-per-view fight? Pacquiao’s corner is saying he will win by knockout, which would be his first as a welterweight and his first since 2009.

The possibilities are all there, tipping the scale toward an intriguing fight, an event that could mark the final chapter to one legend and the beginning of another in the Filipino Senator’s likely campaign for his country’s presidency.

Pacquiao, now a practiced politician, never says much. Pacquiao, the presumed candidate and eight-division champion, also knows a thing or two about how to throw an artful feint, in the ring and on the stage. He dedicated the fight to the people who will cast ballots in next year’s presidential election, May 9.

“For the Filipino people,’’ Pacquiao said after weighing 146 pounds, one less than the mandatory, for the 72nd fight in a career that includes world titles in four decades.

Pacquiao (62-7-2, 39 KOs) is the favorite, both at the sports book and on the street. That’s not much of a surprise. He was more than a 3-1 favorite about 24 hours before opening bell on the PPV card (6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET). The weigh-in was closed to the public. Only a media crowd of a few hundred was allowed into the scheduled ritual at the Grand Garden Arena at the MGM, because of the ongoing surge in COVID.

But the Pacquiao constituency was there, gathered up a flight of stairs and behind a roped-off barrier.

“Manny, Manny,”” they chanted.

It was loud and clear. Their echoes could be heard on the floor, up on the stage and on the scale. They expect 42-year-old Pacquiao to win.

He’s only smaller physically. In stature, he overshadows Ugas in every conceivable way. At 5-foot-9, Ugas is taller by a couple of inches.  With a 69-inch reach, he’s wider. He was also one pound heavier Friday at 147. But there was no way to get out from under long shadow that the Pacquiao legend casts.

“I respect him,’’ Ugas (26-4, 12 KOs) said Friday, sounding very much like a young man speaking of a wise elder.

On Saturday, however, Ugas promises something else.

“All respect is finished when we get into the ring,’’ the 35-year-old said through an interpreter.

In terms of respect, there’s not much of it on Ugas’ side of the scale. He’s the late stand-in, rushed into the main event off the undercard because Errol Spence was found to have a torn retina during a formal physical a couple of weeks ago.

Ugas has neither Spence’s power nor proven skillset. But he does have a performance that some think indicates he has a chance. He lost a controversial split-decision to Shawn Porter in March 2019. Many thought he won.

Few are picking Ugas to win. If Porter were fighting Pacquiao instead of Ugas, however, Porter might get the nod. At the very least, it would be a pick’em fight  

  “I’m here to wreck any future plans Manny Pacquaio has in the ring,’’ Ugas said when he arrived at the MGM Grand Tuesday.

Maybe, Pacquiao was waving bye-bye to that one.

By Norm Frauenheim-

History follows Manny Pacquiao. It’s a parade of titles, weight classes, money and mostly fans that has marched, Pied Piper-like, down through the decades.

Is it ending? It might be. The if has been attached to Pacquiao’s fight Saturday night against Yordenis Ugas at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena in a pay-per-view bout.

That if, in fact, is a bigger part of the fight than just about anything, including Ugas, a relatively unknown Cuban who is a late stand-in for Errol Spence, out with a torn retina.

That’s not fair to Ugas, a competent enough welterweight with perhaps a better chance at springing an upset than the betting odds suggest. But it’s hardly a surprise.

That if has transformed the fight into an event. To wit: Will Elvis be in the building for the last time?

The fact that Pacquiao is thinking about moving on is about as big a secret as his plans to run for President of the Philippines are. Front-and-center, it’s the story – the theme — leading up to the PPV card’s first bell (6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET, $74.95). It might be hard to sell Ugas. But a chance to see a legend answer the bell for the last time? Now, there’s a compelling sales pitch.

“It might be my last fight,’’ Pacquiao said, hinting at retirement all over again, during the final news conference Wednesday at the MGM Grand. “Or, there is more.’’

More, of course, could mean just about anything. More could mean a run for President. He has until early October to declare his candidacy. More could mean Spence or Terence Crawford. He mentioned both if and when he decides to continue his ring career.

But Spence or Crawford could also give his political rivals some red meat. Current Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte has already said Pacquiao is “punch-drunk.’’ That suggestion might gain some real traction if Pacquiao were to fight Spence or Crawford, both of whom are more than just competent welterweights. They’re dangerous, especially against a man years past his physical prime and well into middle age.

In the here-and-now, the decision hinges in how the 42-year Filipino Senator performs Saturday. He’s favored, of course, by odds that are expected to grow — and grow some more — by opening bell. He was minus-360 Thursday, which means about a 73-percent chance at victory. That chance promises to multiply, driven by public sentiment. It’s a powerful factor, and all of it is in Pacquiao’s corner.

It’s an understatement to say that Pacquiao is beloved. To his fans, he’s Manny, the same Manny he was more than two decades ago. His fans have grown up with him. They’ll bet on him, if for no other reason than to have a betting slip as a souvenir for what might be his last fight.

For the politician in Pacquiao, that’s good news, a sign that he might get as much support at the polls as he does at the window.

Just a couple of days before opening bell, however, it’s not clear that the last-chance pitch has had much impact at the box-office. On Thursday, seats were still available throughout T-Mobile at prices that range from $211 to $1,292. The announcement a couple of weeks ago that Spence was out and Ugas in didn’t help. But there are other circumstances, including another surge in COVID.

Fans might not fill the building, but the guess here is that they’ll be there, in the pay-per-view audience to watch their Elvis for maybe the last time.

LAS VEGAS (August 19, 2021) – Fighters competing on this Saturday’s Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View undercard went face-to-face and previewed their respective showdowns during a press conference Thursday before they square off in action beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference featured former world champions and all-action welterweights Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Victor Ortiz, who meet in a 10-round attraction, unbeaten contender Mark Magsayo and former world champion Julio Ceja, who duel in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated Carlos Castro and former title challenger Óscar Escandón, who battle in a 10-round featherweight bout that kicks off the pay-per-view telecast.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and MP Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

ROBERT GUERRERO

“I feel like I’m 30-years-old again. I feel great. The time off allowed me to rest.
I couldn’t be happier. Training camp went great. Through the whole pandemic the past year-and-a-half I just stayed in shape. I have my own boxing gym at home so it was nice to be able to stay in the gym.

“I’ve been training out here in Las Vegas for a while now. It’s incredible to be on this card with Manny Pacquiao as it may be his last fight. I’m just excited for this opportunity and I’m ready to go.

“When I got the call to fight Victor Ortiz, I said, ‘Let’s do it.’ I got a lot of respect for Victor. He always brings it which means it’s going to be a great fight for the fans. I’ve put in the work I needed to put in.

“I’m expecting a good fight. I know Victor Ortiz is coming to fight. He’s always in great shape and brings it all the time. We had to prepare very well and not take it lightly. This is one of those fights that could catapult us into a world title bout. I know he’s coming and I’m coming so it’s going to be a great one.

“The goal is to fight the best fighters and the best fighters are the champs right now. I’m looking toward facing one of them and so I’m excited about that. I see myself taking care of business this weekend and going from there. In the past, I was looking to the future and not taking care of what’s in front of me. Now, we’re just looking to Saturday night and that’s it.

“You’re going to see a great fight no matter what. Whether it’s on the outside or inside. Myself and Victor come to fight every time so this fight might steal the show.”

VICTOR ORTIZ

“I really don’t have much to say. I’m just very grateful for this opportunity. I couldn’t have done it without my team. Coach Freddie Roach, Coach Marvin, Coach Pepe, and Marie of course. I feel the same, it’s like I never left.

“What gave the biggest motivation of my lifetime are my two boys, Royal and Casino. I’m here to make a statement and I’m not leaving without the victory.

“I’ve had big fights all around, I’ve been boxing as a pro since I was 17. Experience is the difference. I am an experienced veteran now.

“It’s a great pleasure to share the ring with another legend. That’s what boxing is all about. I’m only focused on what coach Freddie has me focused on and myself. At this point in time, we’re ready to go. We put in the work and we did the homework.

“I would never in a million years expect for Robert The Ghost” Guerrero to not prepare correctly. I expect the best of him. I looked up to him, a southpaw like me. I have great respect for him and his entire team.

“I am with the elite. Guerrero comes to fight. He comes with pressure and boxing, but it doesn’t matter. At the end of the day I know what I’ve done in training camp, and I’ve obeyed my camp 100%. I was in bed at the correct times, I was dieting correctly, and running when I was supposed to. I am ready.

“I made a promise to my babies: I’m going to reign for a decade. I’m back.”

MARK MAGSAYO

“I want to thank God for putting me here and for the opportunity. I want to thank my promoters. I was dreaming and praying that I would be on the undercard of a Manny Pacquiao fight. Now my dream has come true. So, I’ve put my all into winning this fight and I will be victorious.

“I am thankful for Freddie Roach for this camp. I’m so thankful that I have a legendary coach. He teaches me so many things about boxing and points out my mistake. All of my punches now are accurate. I’m a better fighter now.

“If I win this fight – I’m sure I’m going to win this fight – my dream is to become a world champion. Let’s see what Ceja does. It’s a great fight. Am I going to knock him out? Of course.”

JULIO CEJA

“We had a great camp. I’m in great shape for this fight. I also want to thank Ismael Salas, Thomas Dulorme and all the team that prepared me for this fight.

“We’re motivated and ready to win on Saturday night. I’m really happy to be here on the Pacquiao-Ugas undercard. We’re going to take advantage of this opportunity and the only thing I can say is that we’re going to win on Saturday night.

“This is a great opportunity. I’m really motivated to become world champion. I’m ready to win this Saturday and a world title. Don’t miss this fight because we’re here to win. When it’s Mexico vs. the Philippines, you know it’s going to be spectacular.

“The way I see this fight is that I’ve been in the ring with better opponents. I will be stronger and more physical than Magsayo. We are going to win by knockout.”

CARLOS CASTRO

“It’s a dream come true to be on the stage with these great fighters. I’ve been training hard for something like this and I don’t plan to let it go.

“As the opening fight, I think we should bring a great show and show the people what we’re made of. I’m not taking Óscar Escandón lightly. He’s a former world title challenger and been on the same stage. It’s just great to be in this arena on a card with legends like Manny Pacquiao.

“Escandón is a great fighter, a strong fighter. He’s proven it in the ring. He said he had a great camp and I had a tremendous camp with my sparring partners and my trainer Manny Robles. It’s going to be a great fight. I hope you guys don’t miss it because we’re going to put on a show and I’m going to show everyone what I’m made of.”

ÓSCAR ESCANDÓN

“First of all, I want to thank God for this fight and for everything. I also want to thank my managers, coach Ruben Guerrero, Robert Guerrero and my team.

“We were training for August 28th but this is a bigger fight and I’m ready for this card to start. I’m excited, I’m just ready for the first bell to ring and I’m here for the ‘W.’ Thanks everybody for the opportunity to be in this great event.

“The fight with Jhack Tepora was an opportunity from God. It was an easy fight. I didn’t know I was going to beat him that quickly. Same thing with Castro. I’m prepared, here to beat him and give everyone a surprise.

“The hardest part was the camp and now I’m going to enjoy the fight. I don’t like to make predictions. I’m just going to go out there, do my job and let the crowd enjoy the fight.”

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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS
Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in the 10-round welterweight co-main event, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.

How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight
Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including
Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);
as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)

iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.

Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com, YouTube PPV, Fite.TV and Sony Playstation – Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LAS VEGAS (August 18, 2021) – Eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás went face-to-face Wednesday at the final press conference before they meet in the highly anticipated FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event this Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as Pacquiao, already a legend in the sport, can break his own record as the oldest fighter to ever win a welterweight championship, while Ugas looks to take advantage of the biggest opportunity of his career in his first world title defense.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and MP Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Here is what the fighters, along with their esteemed trainers, had to say Wednesday:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I didn’t like that someone took my belt without challenging me in the ring. Both of us are champions, but we’ll see who has the belt after Saturday.

“I’m praying for a fast recovery from Errol Spence Jr. and that he can fight again soon. I of course felt bad when I first heard the news, but it’s a good thing that Ugas was ready to challenge me for the world title. I’m glad that we can settle that dispute about the WBA title. It’s always better to talk in the ring.

“It only took me two days to adjust to fighting Ugas. I have fought a lot of right handed fighters before. It would have been harder switching from preparing for a right hander to a southpaw. Most of my opponents have been right-handed, so there’s nothing to worry about.

“I feel young right now. I’m just happy with what I’m doing, because boxing is my passion. I enjoy training camp and I’m excited to sacrifice and be disciplined every day to prepare for a fight like this.

“For the Keith Thurman fight I would do about 25 rounds a day, and now for this fight I’m doing 30 or more rounds a day. The coaches have had to try to stop me because I want to keep going.

“If there’s a chance for a knockout, then I’ll go for it because that’s what I want to give to the fans. I’m not underestimating Ugas though. He has a lot of experience in boxing and fought in the Olympics. I know I have to be very good to win this fight.

“I never imagined what I would have accomplished in boxing from the beginning of my career leading up to now. I went from nothing to something in order to be an inspiration for people both inside and outside of the ring. This is going to be a good action fight and I’m going to do my best Saturday night because I love to make the fans happy.”

YORDENIS UGAS

“This has been a long road for me. Obviously it is short notice that I learned I was fighting Pacquiao, but I’m thankful for the opportunity and I’m ready to take advantage of it.

“We made the adjustments we had to in the last two weeks so that I’m ready for Pacquiao. We’ve done everything we had to and we’re 100% ready to go Saturday night.

“There are no excuses heading into this fight. I’ve been in this position taking a short-notice fight before, although obviously never against a fighter the caliber of Pacquiao. I have no concerns though, and I believe both of us are going to be prepared for this fight.

“I’m certain that he cannot knock me out. I’ve done all the preparation over these past six years to get in this position, I’ve hit my stride and I just don’t believe I can be stopped by Manny.

“I have prepared for 12 hard rounds. If this is Pacquiao’s final fight, then he’s going to be up against a guy who brought his best and who is a world-class fighter.

“I want to thank my whole team for this great opportunity. More than anything, I am a fighter who represents my country of Cuba. This fight is dedicated to all the people who are fighting for freedom in Cuba, I’m fighting for all of them.

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Trainer

“Manny Pacquiao has been the best fighter I’ve ever trained. To win titles in eight divisions and be in fights here at MGM so many times, has been a dream come true. I’ve trained over 40 world champions throughout my career, but no one competes with Manny Pacquiao.

“We’ve had a good training camp and Manny has worked really hard for this fight. Putting a sparring partner on the canvas was a motivation for all of us. We’re going to bring that into this fight.

“His work ethic today is as good as it was 20 years go. He’s been unbelievable in training and sparring for this fight. I don’t know if it was a bigger confidence boost for me or Manny, but I’m expecting this fight to end in a knockout the way he’s been looking.”

ISMAEL SALAS, Ugas’ Trainer

“The experience that Ugas has from the Olympics and over 500 amateur bouts is going to be the most important thing for him in this fight. We’ve been on a roll for these last 12 fights since Ugas has started working with me. We’re going to keep it going on Saturday.

“To fight Manny Pacquiao is an honor. To me, he’s a legend and a person who is an inspiration for millions of fighters. But when you look back at his recent fights, he hasn’t delivered a knockout in a long time. He’s dropped guys, but it’s been a while since he’s knocked someone out.

“Ugas fights for his pride and for his love of the sport. For a long time he has been struggling here in the United States. We are immigrants, and every immigrant has to adjust to the way of living. Despite all of the changes he has been through, he has had success. He needs to keep working for what he loves, which is boxing.

“Pacquiao comes from a lot of angles, but so does Ugas. Ugas has mastered fighting southpaws, so we’ll see who is going to be able to see their opponent’s punches coming.”

LAS VEGAS (August 17, 2021) – Eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás made their grand arrivals in Las Vegas Tuesday ahead of their FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View showdown this Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and MP Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Pacquiao seeks to add another piece of history to his already legendary resume Saturday night, while Ugas will look for a career-defining victory in his first world title defense. Ugas will be defending the same title that Pacquiao won when he defeated Keith Thurman in his last fight in July 2019.

Here is what Pacquiao and Ugas had to say Tuesday from Toshiba Plaza:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I am excited to win another world championship on Saturday. I don’t care who has the belt right now, we’ll see who walks out of the ring with it.

“Being out of the ring has given me time to rest, but also to get motivated like in my early days. I can’t wait to display it all on fight night.

“Boxing is my passion. That’s why I’m still here giving inspiration to the boxing fans and bringing honor to my country. I’m happy doing my job and working hard. They have to try to slow me down in training, because I always want to go more rounds.

“This could be my last fight, or there could be more. I’m turning 43 in December, and my plan has always been to just go one fight at a time. I encourage the fans all over the world to watch this fight, because you never know.”

YORDENIS UGAS

“I’m here to wreck any future plans Manny Pacquiao has in the ring and make sure that Saturday is his last fight.

“It feels great to be in the main event Saturday night against a true legend like Pacquiao. I can’t wait to get in the ring on Saturday night.

“I didn’t hesitate at all when I got offered this fight. I knew right away what a big opportunity it would be and what a win like this can do for my career.

“I always work hard and give it my all every day in training camp. We were already working for the Fabian Maidana fight. Of course, once I knew I was fighting Pacquiao, I was motivated even more, but I always give it my all in training camp.”

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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS
Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in the 10-round welterweight co-main event, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.

How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight
Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas
Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including
Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);
as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)

iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.

Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com

Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (August 17, 2021) – After four weeks of conditioning in the Philippines and six weeks of hard training at world-famous Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Boxing Cub in Hollywood, California, eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao concluded his training camp on Monday and drove to Las Vegas to begin his fight week festivities.  This Saturday, he will challenge WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugás in a battle that will headline a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event, live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.  

So what can Ugás expect when he faces amazin’ Manny?  Hall of Fame trainer and boxing analyst Teddy Atlas had a front row seat on April 9, 2016, when he manned two-division world champion Timothy Bradley’s corner as head trainer in the rubber match of the Manny-Bradley welterweight trilogy.  Manny served up two knockdowns to the fellow future Hall of Famer Bradley, en route to a unanimous decision victory.  It would be the final fight of Bradley’s illustrious career and Manny would be the only man to defeat him professionally.

Here’s what Atlas had to say:

“We all know that saying; everyone has a plan until you hit them in the mouth.  But with Manny, it’s more like, until you hit that hornets’ nest, and Manny is literally everywhere.  Tim was great.  But legends sting.

“When I evaluate a fighter, I look for dimensions, and Manny is like watching 3D where everything comes at you fast and from all directions.  That’s the greatness of Manny, his combination of speed and power along with special instincts and a will to win.  He’s never forgotten what he didn’t have, and he fights like he’s still looking for it.

“You can look at Manny Pacquiao as a Force of Nature.  Like the ocean, he pulls you into counters, then pushes you back, catching you in retreat.  The tide moving a piece of driftwood.  His legs are the beach giving him the ability to strand opponents in space, while his hands crash like waves.  I’ve seen it up close.  And it’s no day at the beach.”

Teddy Atlas is the Chairman of the Dr. Theodore A. Atlas Foundation, which he founded in 1997 to honor the memory of his father.  The Foundation provides financial and emotional support to individuals in need and operates youth programs in Staten Island, New York.  He also hosts the popular podcast and YouTube show, THE FIGHT with Teddy Atlas.  Check out Teddy’s instructional videos at Dynamic Striking Dot Com (https://dynamicstriking.com/). 

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS

Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in a 10-round welterweight duel, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.

How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight 

Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas

Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including

Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);

as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)

iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.

Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com

Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (August 16, 2021) — With undefeated WBC/IBF welterweight champion Errol Spence sidelined while he recovers from retina surgery, all eyes are on WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugás.  Ugás stepped up from the card’s co-main event and will defend his title against the legendary eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, this Saturday, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.  It will be seen live as the main event on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.   

Twenty years ago, with only one world title to his name, unknown outside the Philippines, and idling in the junior featherweight division, Manny Pacquiao received a call from destiny.  IBF junior featherweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba, considered by most to be the class of the division, was scheduled to make a title defense against Enrique Sanchez in the co-main event of an HBO PPV card headlined by the Javier Castillejo – Oscar De La Hoya WBC super welterweight championship fight which took place on June 23, 2001.  Two weeks before the fight, Sanchez was injured in training camp and the hunt was on for a replacement.  After a few name opponents rejected the fight, Manny, the IBF’s No. 3 world-rated contender, received the offer, which he and his new trainer world-famous Freddie Roach readily accepted.  The rest is history.  From the opening bell, Manny was all over Ledwaba, busting him up from pillar to post until the fight was stopped in the sixth round.

“I was in very good shape since I had recently fought in the Philippines and had just begun to work with Freddie,” said Manny, who ends his Wild Card Boxing Club training camp today.  “I was a day away from going home to the Philippines when the fight was offered to me.  I was so excited.  This was a great opportunity.  There was no way I was going to pass it up.  Freddie and I worked every day those two weeks until the weigh-in.  That is how we started to get to know each other.  Ugás is in a similar situation.  He was already training for a welterweight title fight on the same card as mine so he too is ready to make the most of this opportunity.  I know what Ugás is feeling because twenty years ago I was Ugás.  I am not taking him for granted.  In fact I am taking him as seriously as I took Errol Spence.  I will not make the same mistake Ledwaba made with me.  I still have the same hunger to win.  I live for it.  I have had a great training camp and I am well-prepared.  I want to prove to everyone, especially Yordenis Ugás, that I am still here.  My title was given to Ugás.  That is not how you become a champion.  You earn it by winning it inside the ring.  We will fight for the title.  That is the proper way a champion is crowned.”

And what does Freddie think?

“What Manny had going for him when he fought Ledwaba was that he was unknown in the U.S. which gave us the element of surprise,” said Freddie.  “I don’t remember Sanchez being considered too tough an opponent and I guess Ledwaba trained for that level of opponent.  They obviously didn’t do their homework on Manny, which was lucky for us.  The important lessons Manny and I learned from that fight were never underestimate your opponent, take nothing for granted, and never cut corners in training.  And Manny never has.  He gives it everything he has every day of every training camp and respects every opponent who is brave enough to enter a ring.”

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS

Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in a 10-round welterweight duel, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.

How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight 

Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas

Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including

Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);

as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)

iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.

Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com

Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (August 15, 2021) — Four score and eight weight divisions ago, Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao brought forth, upon this boxing continent, a new Pacman nation, conceived in liberating world championship crowns, and dedicated to the proposition that all opponents are created equal — beaten!  

IT’S FIGHT WEEK BABY!  

Eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Manny Pacquiao will be challenging WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugás this Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Two years ago, Manny, at age 40, tagged then undefeated WBA welterweight champion Keith Thurman with his first loss to become the oldest man to win a welterweight title.  Can amazin’ Manny reclaim his title while breaking his own age record?  The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, headlined by Pacquiao vs. Ugás, will begin at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.    

·         Always the politician, when asked if switching his training preparations from southpaw Errol Spence to the orthodox style of Yordenis Ugás, 11 days before the fight, presented problems, Senator Manny Pacquiao said: “I am a bipartisan fighter who likes fighting righties and lefties equally.”

·         Los Angeles freeways have nothing on Manny when it comes to traffic.  Check out the footage from CBS Los Angeles’ SKY 2 copter when Manny finished his Friday morning run at Griffith Park:  CBS Los Angeles on Twitter: “HOY, MANNY! A big crowd gathered this morning at Griffith Park, where Manny Pacquiao was training. The boxer posed for pictures, signed autographs, and gave Sky 2 a big wave! https://t.co/gDTzXYJknQ https://t.co/JKBeuPKieG” / Twitter

·         Manny’s trainer, world-famous Freddie Roach, on celebrating 20 years together with Manny Pacquiao:  “I look back to our first fight together, against IBF junior featherweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba, which took place twenty years ago and just a few weeks after we first met, and I’m still amazed.  Fighters fire their trainers in good times and in bad times, it’s part of boxing.  And here we are still together — longer than many marriages last.  Manny is all about loyalty.  He’s the greatest fighter I have ever trained.  The smartest student I have ever taught.  And a better friend you will never find.  He brings so much joy to boxing and to the world.”  

·         Manny has fought all over the world, including the Philippines, the U.S., Macau, and Australia, but it’s clear, his second home, when it comes to boxing, is Las Vegas.  Manny made his U.S. debut in Las Vegas when he knocked out IBF junior featherweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba in 2001.  Saturday’s fight against Ugás will be his 22nd in the Fight Capital of the World, with 14 of those fights having at least one world title at stake.       

·         Manny has never shied away from a tough challenge.  If anything defines the man’s body of work inside the boxing ring, it’s the roster of opponents Manny has faced, most in the prime of their careers, and many now in, or on their way into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.  Younger, taller, heavier, that never mattered to Manny.  His philosophy — if you are going to fight for world titles in eight different weight classes, you’d better be prepared to accept a few Forget-Me-Knots.  Here are Manny’s career victory highlights: Marco Antonio Barrera (2X), Juan Manuel Márquez (2X), Erik Morales (2X), Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, Timothy Bradley (2X), Shane Mosley, Antonio Margarito, and Keith Thurman. Collectively, they had a combined record of 415-28 — a winning percentage of 94% — when he defeated them or the first time he defeated them.  

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS

Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in a 10-round welterweight duel, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.

How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight 

Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas

Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including

Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);

as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)

iNDemand is serving as the cable and telco distributor in North America.

Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com

Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)

#          #          #

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage   and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

By Norm Frauenheim-

From pugilist to populist, the campaign continues. Manny Pacquiao is always running, toward the fight and for the Senate. Maybe for President, too.

Before a run at the Filipino Presidency, however, there’s a fight, at least one more in a life as storied as it is improbable. Pacquiao will answer another bell, not against Errol Spence Jr., an encounter as feared as it was anticipated.

Instead, the Senator faces Yordenis Ugas, a capable welterweight yet without any of Spence’s notoriety. Spence was a real risk; Ugas is a late stand-in.

That’s unfair to Ugas, a Cuban who got the call Tuesday after Spence was forced out of the August 21 pay-per-view date at Las Vegas T-Mobile Arena by a torn retina. But nothing about public perception, or boxing, has ever been fair. It’s fickle. Dangerous, too.

For Pacquiao, a late change in opposition has done little to alter the danger. He’s 42. The 31-year-old Spence could have hurt him. The 35-year-old Ugas can too. It all depends on how Pacquiao adjusts. Ever the politician, Pacquiao promises no adjustment is too much.

Spence is left-handed. Ugas is right-handed. So what, says Pacquiao, whose two-plus decades in the boxing and political rings have shown he can work both sides of any aisle.

“I consider myself a bipartisan boxer,” Pacquiao said Wednesday during a Zoom session with reporters. “I am used to fighting right and left-handed, so it’s not going to be a problem,”

It was a good quip, one that suggests Pacquiao is also in training for an imminent presidential campaign.  In the here-and-now, however, the pressing question is whether his reflexes have resisted time’s corrosive process.

 If not, Pacquiao’s career could end as abruptly as so many others have. Pacquiao’s quick hands and quicker feet could carry him in-and-out of danger, in-and-out of victory. But he hasn’t fought in more than two years. He hasn’t tested those reflexes since a split decision over Keith Thurman on July 20, 2019.

He looked forever young against Thurman. But 25 months later, forever might be forgotten. Spence or Ugas, that’s part of the risk. Part of a perverse attraction, too. But Pacquiao has never been afraid. In part, that helps explain his popularity. It endures. His chin has betrayed him. But never his popularity.

Against Spence, the numbers were daunting. He was four inches shorter. Eleven years older. He had a five-inch disadvantage in reach. Yet shrinking odds, driven by public sentiment, gave Pacquiao a chance against Spence. How come?

Because he’s Manny.

The world’s love affair with Pacquiao continues. It’s also an exception. Politicians are hated. Fans buy fights because they want to see the designated bad guy take a whipping. But Pacquaio, pugilist and politician, is loved. His goodness is inexhaustible. It also might be the only thing about him that hasn’t aged.

It helps explain how opening odds favoring Spence were cut in half, from 4-1 to 2-1, within just a couple of weeks. With Spence out and Ugas in, Pacquiao is the favorite, minus-300, meaning he has a 75-percent chance at victory.

From this corner, the odds are off.  The younger Ugas has a real chance in what looks to be a pick-em fight. Had it been Spence, it still might have been close to an even fight at opening bell.  

The bet, really the hope, is that goodness will prevail all over again. It’s rooted in what is remembered about Pacquiao. Risk was never tied to reward. For Pacquiao, it has never been part of a ratio. From Oscar De La Hoya to Antonio Margarito, he just took it on. Now, he decides to fight Ugas, a real fighter, instead of a Paul. Hard not to love that.

But the risk has never been bigger. Time isn’t sentimental. It just moves on. A tale of the tape tells you that Ugas has Spence-like advantages in almost every relevant dimension. The clock tells you something else. Ugas is in his prime; Pacquiao is not.

Pacquiao’s 26-years in the pro ring are a thorough record of what he does. There are no secrets. His power is intact. But nothing should surprise Ugas, whose advantages and relative youth will allow him to play a punishing waiting game. Like an incoming target, Pacquiao will have to pursue — step inside repeatedly.

Ugas figures to erode his energy with blows early and hurt him with big punches later. The Pick: Ugas, unanimous decision.

Ugas will beat him, but not knock out his popularity. Pacquiao might have enough of that to win the Filipino presidency. It’d be nice to see a good guy go on to win that fight.

LAS VEGAS (August 12, 2021) – Former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz will meet in a 10-round welterweight duel on the Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugás FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View at Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Also on the pay-per-view, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battles former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the action at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The evening is headlined by eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás, as Ugás makes the first defense of the same title that Pacquiao had previously won by defeating Keith Thurman in his last fight July 2019.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and MP Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Guerrero (36-6-1, 20 KOs) is a three-time world champion who has won world titles at featherweight and super featherweight, and has fought a stacked lineup of elite fighters, including Floyd Mayweather, during a superb career. The Gilroy, California native returned from a 2017 defeat to Omar Figueroa Jr. to win his last three contests. After stopping Adam Mates in December 2018 and Hevinson Herrera in March 2019, Guerrero most recently won a unanimous decision over Gerald Thomas in September 2019.

Ortiz (32-6-3, 25 KOs), a former 147-pound champion, will return to the ring for the first time since a February 2018 draw against two-division champion Devon Alexander. The 34-year-old native of Garden City, Kansas, who now lives in Ventura, California, has faced some of the top names in the 147-pound division during his career. Ortiz won the welterweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Andre Berto in April 2011, before losing the title to Floyd Mayweather.

The Filipino sensation Magsayo (22-0, 15 KOs) fights out of Pasig City, Metro Manila and most recently knocked out Pablo Cruz in four rounds in April 2021, following his U.S. televised debut in October 2020 that saw him defeat Rigoberto Hermosillo on FS1. The 26-year-old fights in the U.S. for the fifth time overall on August 21 and against his toughest competition to date in the former champion Ceja. Magsayo owns 12-round decision victories over Shoto Hayashi and Jose Robles Olvera, and a sixth-round stoppage of former title challenger Chris Avalos.

A former super bantamweight champion, Ceja (32-4-1, 28 KOs) will move up to featherweight as he seeks an opportunity to capture a championship in a second division. Ceja’s 2019 saw him engage in two action-packed battles, dropping a June contest to former champion Guillermo Rigondeaux and most recently fighting unbeaten super bantamweight champion Brandon Figueroa to a draw in November. The 28-year-old captured his 122-pound title with a stoppage of Hugo Ruiz in 2015, and has also challenged for a bantamweight title throughout his career.

Castro (26-0, 11 KOs) has climbed the rankings since turning pro in 2012 as he seeks a shot at a world championship. The Phoenix-native added two victories in 2020, defeating Jesus Ruiz in February before stopping longtime contender Cesar Juarez in four rounds in July. Castro was coming off a 2019 campaign that saw him score three victories, including 10-round unanimous decision triumphs over former title challenger Genesis Servania and veteran contender Mario Diaz.

A native of Ibague, Colombia, Escandón (26-5, 18 KOs) has faced a slew of top contenders and champions including featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr. and super bantamweight champion Brandon Figueroa, plus hard-hitting contender Tugstsogt Nyambayar. Escandón captured an interim title in 2016 when he knocked out Robinson Castellanos to earn his world title shot against Russell. Most recently, Escandón scored a first-round knockout over previously unbeaten contender Jhack Tepora in December of 2019.

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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. UGÁS
Pacquiao vs. Ugás will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao taking on WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz meet in a 10-round welterweight duel, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battle former world champion Julio Ceja in a WBC Featherweight Title Eliminator, plus undefeated contender Carlos Castro will take on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round featherweight attraction that kicks off the pay-per-view.

How to Watch the Saturday, August 21, FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Fight
Manny Pacquiao vs. Yordenis Ugas
Main Card: 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

TV: Available on all major U.S. & Canadian PPV providers, including
Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.);
as well as Rogers, Bell, Shaw, SaskTel and TELUS (Canada)

Streaming: FOX Sports App and FOXSports.com

Suggested retail price: $74.99 (U.S. & Canada)

#

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LAS VEGAS (August 11, 2021) – Eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás previewed their championship showdown during a virtual press conference on Wednesday before they meet in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Ugás steps up to replace Errol Spence Jr. in the main event, as Spence recovers from an eye injury. Ugás had been preparing to make his first title defense in the co-main event and will now face the boxing legend Pacquiao in a career-defining fight, defending the same title that Pacquiao won when he defeated Keith Thurman in his last fight July 2019.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and MP Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I want to say that I’m praying for Errol to make a fast recovery from his injury. Health is always the priority and the most important thing. I did my best in training and in preparation for this fight, so I wanted to make sure my hard work was not wasted.

“Ugás was ready to fight and challenge me on August 21. So it’s a great thing that I can show off my hard work in the gym when we face each other on fight night.

“I’m not disappointed at all in what happened because my hard work will not be wasted. Ugás stepped up and is bringing his WBA championship into the fight, which I’m excited to fight for.

“I always consider myself a bipartisan boxer. I am happy to fight either right-handed or southpaw fighters. It’s no problem for me at all to switch the styles that I’m going to face.

“What I can say to the fans is that this is definitely not an easy fight. Ugás is a champion because they gave him my belt. Now, we have to settle it inside of the ring. I cannot take him lightly, because he’s the kind of fighter who will take advantage of that.

“I have a lot of people around me that motivate me to win this fight, especially for my family. I’m also very motivated to give the fans a great fight that they’re going to enjoy in the arena or watching on pay-per-view.

“In the end, I want to win the belts. I’m so excited for this championship fight and I don’t care if I’m the challenger or champion coming into it. We’ll see who is the champion after August 21.

“I know that Ugás is also very prepared for his fight because he was going to be on the undercard. If there was no Ugás on the undercard, it’s possible we would have cancelled the fight. It’s a good thing we had another welterweight champion on the card for this scenario that happened.

“The only danger for this fight is the change in stance. Both Spence and Ugás are aggressive fighters, which I like. We can create a lot of great action in the ring that the fans will love.

“I would tell the fans not to miss this fight. This is going to be a really good one. I’m sure that me and Ugás are going to give a fight full of action. I’m excited to see everyone in Las Vegas on August 21.”

YORDENIS UGÁS

“I’m feeling great and super excited to fight on this big stage. I’m ready to go get in the ring on August 21. I couldn’t be more excited for this fight.

“When I got the call that I was going to face one of the best fighters in history, it just pushed my excitement to new highs. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m capable of.

“I also want to wish Errol Spence Jr. a safe and fast recovery. I hope he gets healthy soon and we see him back in the ring.

“I’m used to taking fights at the last minute. It’s really nothing new to me. Once I knew I was fighting Pacquiao, I got right back to work, because I’m always ready to fight anyone they put in front of me.

“I got elevated to being the WBA champion in January, but now we can say that whoever wins on August 21 is the true WBA Welterweight World Champion.

“It’s all about making adjustments at this point. I’ve had a lot of experience doing this before fights. It’s happened multiple times, so I’m truly prepared at all times to adjust to whatever comes my way.

“Fighting Manny Pacquiao is very significant to me. It means the world to me. I’m not fighting for the money, I’m fighting for my legacy, and for my country. This is the most important fight of my life.

“I’m well-aware that Pacquiao is the favorite. But at the same time, I’m a champion. Since I came back five years ago, I’ve overcome so much. I’ve faced so many strong opponents in order to get to where I am today. I have full confidence in myself and my ability to get a victory.

“When I went away from boxing, I was focused on family and spending time with my son. At that time, I never thought I would be defending a title against Manny Pacquiao. But for the past five years I’ve been one of the most active and successful boxers out there and I’m ready to prove myself once again.

“I’m a fighter not only inside of the ring, but outside of the ring I fight for the freedom of my people. That’s the most important thing to me. I hope everyone fighting for freedom in Cuba is safe and knows that I’ll be fighting for them on Saturday, August 21.

“Underestimating Manny Pacquiao is out of the question. He’s going to be ready. I have prepared to face the best so that I can become the best.

“This is going to be a great fight for all the fans. I’m planning on leaving everything in the ring. I can guarantee an amazing fight. We’re going to give a big gift to the fans on August 21. I’m leaving my heart out there for all my fans.”

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

 HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (August 11, 2021) – On less than 24 hours’ notice, eight-division champion, and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and his Hall of Fame trainer world-famous Freddie Roach converted their training camp, which for the past six weeks had been geared toward preparing for southpaw Errol Spence, the undefeated unified WBC/IBF welterweight champion, to new opponent WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugás, who fights out of an orthodox stance.  On Tuesday, Spence was forced to withdraw from his August 21 blockbuster FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View showdown with Manny due to a retinal tear in his left eye.  Ugás, who was preparing to make his first title defense against Fabian Maidana in the co-feature of the Pacquiao-Spence card, stepped up to replace Spence and will defend his title against Pacquiao, the previous owner of the same title.

After six weeks of sparring and strategizing in preparation for fighting a lefty, Manny sparred eight rounds with three right-handed fighters on Tuesday.  Was it hard to adjust?

“I am a politician.  I am used to dealing with changing stances,” said a grinning Manny after a workout that lasted close to three hours.  “For the first thirty seconds things looked a little odd in sparring, but I adjusted quickly, and it was business as usual.  Naturally I am disappointed in the situation but thank God the tear in Errol’s retina was discovered before it could be damaged further.  I join his family, friends, and fans and pray that he has a full and complete recovery. 

“As for Ugás, I am happy that he stepped up to replace Errol Spence.  Ugás is a champion with a strong Cuban boxing background.  This is a big fight, and we will give the fans an exciting show.  He was given my title belt earlier in the year but now we get to fight for it inside the ring.  That is the proper way to become a world champion.”

For Freddie, this situation is a first.

“Training camp injuries are part of the territory in boxing, though you hate to see a severe injury like the one Errol suffered happen,” said Freddie.  “In the twenty years Manny and I have worked together, he has never had an injury that postponed or canceled a fight.  That is amazing and a testament to Manny’s skills and conditioning.  I have had to deal with opponent changes before but never this close to a fight.  We still have two more sparring sessions remaining and though I am concerned, I’m not too concerned.  Manny adjusts to any situation.  He looked great in sparring on Tuesday. 

“I had Ugás winning his fight with Shawn Porter.  Ugás goes for the kill right away.  He likes to go for the home run when he throws his punches.  He would rather win a fight by knockout than on points.  There will be a lot of fireworks in this one.  It’s a fight, that’s for sure and the fact that Manny had the world title belt he earned by beating Keith Thurman given to Ugás without any warning or due process has given Manny a big incentive to really perform on August 21.  I think he’s really pissed at this guy!”       

Manny, (62-7-2, 39 KOs), who hails from Sarangani Province in the Philippines, is the one-time Boxing Writers Association of America Fighter of the Decade and three-time Fighter of the Year.  Manny goes mano a mano with the man who was given his world championship belt, Ugás (26-4, 21 KOs), an Olympic Bronze medalist and native of Santiago, Cuba who now resides in Miami, Florida.  The Pacquiao-Ugás world championship event, which headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions.  The pay-per-view will begin at 9 p.m. RT / 6 p.m. PT.  Remaining tickets can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (August 9, 2021) – Eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao has no use for a rearview mirror, at least when it comes to his illustrious boxing career, so says his Hall of Fame trainer of 20 years, world-famous Freddie Roach.  Today, amazin’ Manny, 42, begins his final week of training camp, at Hollywood, California-based Wild Card Boxing Club, for his August 21 challenge of undefeated unified WBC/IBF welterweight world champion Errol Spence Jr.  Spence, who is 11 years younger and over four inches taller than Manny, is, arguably, Manny’s biggest fight, in a boxing lifetime made up of big boxing events and spectacular victories.  Manny enters this battle riding a historic string of welterweight title victories over Lucas Matthysse, Adrien Broner, and Keith Thurman, which resulted in Manny, at age 40, becoming the oldest man to win a welterweight world championship belt.  Manny’s last three opponents boasted a combined record of 101-7-1 (82 KOs) — a winning percentage of 93% with a victory by knockout ratio of 81% — when Manny defeated them.  One of boxing’s most beloved warriors, Manny has held a world title in every decade, going back to the nineties. 

“Manny doesn’t need to play his golden oldies.  He is still producing new hits,” said Freddie.  “He hasn’t cut one corner in training camp.  Not one.  He runs up the hills in Griffith Park straight to the Hollywood sign.  He crunches thousands of sit-ups daily.  He spars three days each week and hits every bag on the gym floor with bad intentions every day.  He is still the hardest worker I have ever trained and an eager student.  He wants this one more than anything.  Manny isn’t training this hard to say goodbye.  It’s to prove he’s still here.  Philippine politics might influence when Manny hangs up his gloves.  Maybe this is Manny’s last fight.  But this summer, he has been training for his greatest victory, and for Manny, that is saying something.  It’s the stuff that greatness is made of.”        

Manny, (62-7-2, 39 KOs), who hails from Sarangani Province in the Philippines, is the one-time Boxing Writers Association of America Fighter of the Decade and three-time Fighter of the Year.  He faces his biggest professional boxing challenge when he goes mano a mano with Spence (27-0, 21 KOs), from DeSoto, Texas.  The Pacquiao-Spence world championship event, which headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions.  The pay-per-view will begin at 9 p.m. RT / 6 p.m. PT.  Remaining tickets can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

“As Senator Pacquiao correctly said after this lawsuit was filed in June, he has an absolute right to participate in the August 21 bout with Errol Spence.  Today the Court agreed and resoundingly rejected Paradigm’s injunction publicity stunt in a strong and detailed decision.  Senator Pacquiao looks forward to his bout with Mr. Spence on August 21.

LOS ANGELES (August 4, 2021) – Eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao held a media workout that streamed live on the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube channel Wednesday, as he prepares to take on unified WBC and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The replay of the live streaming workout can be watched in its entirety HERE. Already a legend in the sport, Pacquiao seeks one more monumental win on August 21 to add to his first ballot Hall of Fame resume.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Here is what Pacquiao, Freddie Roach and Buboy Fernandez had to say Wednesday:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“I’m expecting a good fight. Spence is an aggressive fighter and I know that we can create a lot of action in the ring for all of the fans watching. I have lots of advantages in this fight. My speed and power, along with my strategy and experience, are all advantages for me.

“I never imagined being at this point now, when I started my career. Especially to be here now and still fighting the best. It’s truly a gift that I’ve received.

“It’s been two years since I’ve been in the ring and it was good for me to have that rest. It helped my body and my mind a lot. This time around, I’m as excited as ever and feeling like I’m young again.

“I could have fought several easy opponents. I picked the best opponent because I want to add more to my legacy and accomplishments. I have to prove that I’m not done yet.

“We have a strategy that we know how to use against a southpaw. He wants to fight toe-to-toe and that’s going to be to my advantage. We’re prepared for anything. If he wants to use his reach advantage instead, we are ready.

“My family is so supportive of me, because they know that I want to fight and bring honor to my country. At the same time, I’m also here to show for myself that I can still do it at 42-years-old.

“This could be my last fight, or there could be more. Like I’ve always said, it’s one at a time. After the fight, I’ll talk about the plan and see if there’s another fight coming.

“I’m happy to have been doing this for so long with the same coaching staff. I know that they’re happy with my preparations for this fight. The fire in training is still there. It’s the same as it’s been these last 15 years.

“I know my career will not last forever, that’s why I’m starting to help the young fighters in this sport who want to follow in my footsteps. It’s very important to me at this point in my career.”

FREDDIE ROACH

“We took this fight because we think that Errol Spence Jr. is one of the best fighters out there. I’ve talked with Manny throughout the years and he’s always said that he wants to be the best at what he does. There’s no sense in getting in there with some popular fighter who’s no good. We want to fight the best. I congratulated Many when he chose to fight Errol.

“Being out of the ring for a little while can go either way with someone like Manny. The thing is, he’s working out all the time. He shows me everything that he’s up to when he’s in the Philippines and I just give him little adjustments. When he shows up here, he’s ready to go.

“He had probably his best sparring yesterday, we went ten rounds and he got two knockdowns. It was the old Manny Pacquiao from 10 years ago. He’s not as big of a puncher usually at welterweight, but those knockdowns yesterday were a great boost for him.

“Spence is a good boxer, but he’s a very good puncher. We know that when we get inside, we have to be smart getting back outside. It has to be quick combinations and then out right away.

“I told Manny that knocking down Keith Thurman early gave him a lot of momentum in that fight and I’d like to see that again in this fight. He knows that he has to use his speed to do that. He understands completely what I want.

“Manny Pacquiao has always loved to fight southpaws. He understands how they work and what they want to do. That’s really one of the big reasons we took this fight.

“I think Manny is going to out box Spence. His footspeed is unbelievable and much better than his opponent’s. Spence follows you around and is heavy on his feet. He seems very set to the ground. Manny’s speed will overwhelm him. I’m really happy with the game plan so far.”

BUBOY FERNANDEZ

“I was very excited when I heard about this fight because Errol Spence Jr. is a great fighter. I was only surprised because Manny hasn’t fought in two years. But I knew right away that this is going to be an exciting fight.

“Obviously there is a different Manny because of his age, but his mind is always on the sport. Before we arrived in the United States, we had already been sparring and training in the Philippines.

“The team has been very happy with Manny’s performance in camp. The conditioning is going perfectly and we just need to continue. This is going to be 100% Manny Pacquiao on August 21.

“I can’t decide if this is going to be Manny’s last fight. Only he can decide if he wants to continue his legacy or not. If it were up to me, I’d want him to fight one more time in the Philippines for his people. It’s all up to Manny though.

“I have respect for Errol Spence Jr. He’s a good fighter and a world champion. We know we can’t underestimate him. He’s an intelligent fighter, so we know Manny has to be 100%. I think this is going to end up being a great toe-to-toe fight.”

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ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. SPENCE JR.
Pacquiao vs. Spence will see eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao face unified WBC and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. in the blockbuster FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event on Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás squaring off against Argentina’s Fabián “TNT” Maidana in the co-main event, while former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz will meet in a 10-round welterweight duel. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battles former world champion Julio Ceja in a 10-round attraction.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LAS VEGAS (August 3, 2021) – Three exciting matchups have been added to the stacked FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View undercard headlined by eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao facing unified WBC and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. on Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

WBA Welterweight World Champion Yordenis Ugás will square off against Argentina’s Fabián “TNT” Maidana in the co-main event, while former world champions and all-action brawlers Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and “Vicious” Víctor Ortiz will meet in a 10-round welterweight duel. Kicking off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, unbeaten featherweight contender Mark Magsayo battles former world champion Julio Ceja in a 10-round attraction.

“This is a fantastic pay-per-view undercard that is worthy of the highly-anticipated main event between Manny Pacquiao and Errol Spence Jr.,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Yordenis Ugás has established himself as an elite fighter in the star-studded welterweight division, and he will have to make sure he comes at his best for the always tough Argentine, Fabián Maidana. Robert Guerrero vs. Víctor Ortiz is a real treat for boxing fans as two of the sport’s most exciting veterans will battle looking to prove themselves ready for one more run at the world title. And in the opening bout, the extremely promising featherweight contender Mark Magsayo of the Philippines will be up against his stiffest test to date in the former champion Julio Ceja.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

The 35-year-old Ugás (26-4, 12 KOs) has established himself as an elite welterweight since returning from a layoff in 2016, and was elevated to world champion in January after winning a WBA belt by defeating Abel Ramos last September. Ugás, who is from Santiago, Cuba and now lives in Miami, Florida, was on an eight-fight winning streak before losing a narrow split-decision to Shawn Porter in a world title fight in March 2019. The Olympic bronze medalist trains in Las Vegas and owns victories over then undefeated fighters Jamal James, Omar Figueroa Jr. and Bryant Perrella, plus veteran contenders Thomas Dulorme and Ray Robinson.

“Everyone knows I’m a warrior and will fight anyone on any given day, so when they presented me with this fight against Fabián Maidana, I accepted with no hesitation,” said Ugás. “I’ll be defending my WBA title and the world will see why I am must-see T.V. This will be one of the best FOX Sports PBC pay-per-view events in recent history with some of the biggest names in boxing, all fighters who are known for leaving it all in the ring. I know one thing for sure, I’ll be letting my hands fly with bad intentions on August 21. I also want to dedicate this fight to all the brave men, women and children who are fighting for their freedom in Cuba. Patria y Vida!”

Born in Santa Fe, Argentina, Maidana (18-1, 13 KOs) will look to follow in the footsteps of his older brother, former two division champion Marcos Maidana, and become the latest Argentine world champion on August 21. The 29-year-old was unbeaten in his first 16 pro fights, capping off that run with a knockout of Andrey Klimov in July 2018. Since dropping a January 2019 decision to Jaider Parra, Maidana has bounced back with a knockout of Ramses Agaton in September 2019 and a 10-round decision victory over Carlos Cordoba in April of this year.

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for all my life,” said Maidana. “I’m thrilled to be part of such a huge fight card. I’m a man of few words, so all I can tell you is that Ugas is a great fighter but you guys will see the ‘TNT’ I have in each hand exploding on Ugas’ face on August 21.”

Guerrero (36-6-1, 20 KOs) is a three-time world champion who has won world titles at featherweight and super featherweight, and has fought a stacked lineup of elite fighters, including Floyd Mayweather, during a superb career. The Gilroy, California native returned from a 2017 defeat to Omar Figueroa Jr. to win his last three contests. After stopping Adam Mates in December 2018 and Hevinson Herrera in March 2019, Guerrero most recently won a unanimous decision over Gerald Thomas in September 2019.

“It’s great to be back in the ring, especially on a big card like Pacquiao vs. Spence,” said Guerrero. “It was an honor to kick off the first PBC fight on network television and here I am once again, ready to put on a spectacular show for the fans. Víctor Ortiz and I were always on a collision course to fight, and now it’s finally happening. One thing I know for sure, we are going to throw blows and the fans are going to see an all-out war. My time out of the ring has only fueled my desire to give the fans a great fight. Everyone should order this pay-per-view and get their popcorn ready, because it’s going to be fireworks from top to bottom.”

Ortiz (32-6-3, 25 KOs), a former 147-pound champion, will return to the ring for the first time since a February 2018 draw against two-division champion Devon Alexander. The 34-year-old native of Garden City, Kansas, who now lives in Ventura, California, has faced some of the top names in the 147-pound division during his career. Ortiz won the welterweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Andre Berto in April 2011, before losing the title to Floyd Mayweather.

“I am thrilled to be back in the ring on this Pacquiao vs. Spence Jr. pay-per-view undercard August 21,” said Ortiz. “Robert Guerrero is a legend who I’ve always admired. I look forward to competing against him and giving fans the toe-to-toe battle they’re expecting. I’ve had a great camp and I’m so excited to be part of this enormous event. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, I’m ready to make history again!”

The Filipino sensation Magsayo (22-0, 15 KOs) fights out of Pasig City, Metro Manila and most recently knocked out Pablo Cruz in four rounds in April 2021, following his U.S. televised debut in October 2020 that saw him defeat Rigoberto Hermosillo on FS1. The 26-year-old fights in the U.S. for the fifth time overall on August 21 and against his toughest competition to date in the former champion Ceja. Magsayo owns 12-round decision victories over Shoto Hayashi and Jose Robles Olvera, and a sixth-round stoppage of former title challenger Chris Avalos.

“This is going to be a very good matchup against a world class fighter in Ceja,” said Magsayo. “I have been waiting for a chance like this and I am thankful to my whole team for this opportunity. It’s a dream come true to be on the undercard of my number one idol, Senator Manny Pacquiao. On August 21, I’m going to show people what I can do. This is going to be a classic Philippines vs. Mexico war.”

A former super bantamweight champion, Ceja (32-4-1, 28 KOs) will move up to featherweight as he seeks an opportunity to capture a championship in a second division. Ceja’s 2019 saw him engage in two action-packed battles, dropping a June contest to former champion Guillermo Rigondeaux and most recently fighting unbeaten super bantamweight champion Brandon Figueroa to a draw in November. The 28-year-old captured his 122-pound title with a stoppage of Hugo Ruiz in 2015, and has also challenged for a bantamweight title throughout his career.

“I’m back and I’m more than ready to return to the ring,” said Ceja. “A Mexican vs. a Filipino is always guaranteed to be an exciting bout. I have even more motivation than ever being on a card headlined by Manny Pacquiao vs. Errol Spence Jr.. This fight is going to get me back into contending for a championship where I belong.”

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (July 26, 2021) — While the stock market continues to soar, the value on betting that eight-division champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao will upset undefeated unified WBC/IBF welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. is plummeting.  Three weeks into his U.S. training camp with world-famous Freddie Roach at the Hollywood, California-based Wild Card Boxing Club, insider information seems to have leaked out on Manny’s conditioning and training camp performance.  The numbers don’t lie.  Spence, 11 years younger and four inches taller than Manny, opened as a massive 4:1 favorite with BetMGM to retain his belts. Since last week, the money has been pouring in on amazin’ Manny, who is now only a 2:1 underdog.

And why not?  Before the pandemic put mega fights on the shelf, Manny lit up the welterweight division in his last three fights, which took place during a 12-month period, from July 15, 2018 to July 20, 2019.  He ran the table, knocking out WBA regular welterweight champion Lucas Matthysse, successfully defending that title with a unanimous decision blitzing of Adrien Broner, and scoring a first-round knockdown en route to an exciting split decision victory over then undefeated WBA welterweight “super” champion Keith Thurman to become, at age 40, the oldest man to win a welterweight title.  Now, tan, rested, and ready to rumble, Manny is looking to break that age record, along with Spence’s grip on those world championship belts.

“Two years out of the ring allowed my body to rest.  My energy stores are overflowing,” said Manny.  “I am so grateful to God that I can still fight at this level against the best and to still have these opportunities at age 42.  I am still amazed that I have won world titles in each decade, going back to the nineties.  My fight with Errol Spence is not just a battle between the two best welterweights but between two of the best fighters.  There is no “B side” in this fight.  I have just as much to prove in this fight as Errol does.  We are going to bring out the best in each other.  It is the type of fight that makes boxing so great.”

“Working with Manny never gets old.  In fact, it seems like Manny never gets old!  And hearing that all the money is coming in on Manny reminds me of the song, The Best Is Yet To Come, because that has been the common thread throughout Manny’s boxing career,” said Freddie.  “I am just so damn proud of Manny for picking Errol Spence for this fight.  It’s a real fight and what a great example to set.  You want respect?  You want to establish a legacy?  Look at what Manny and Spence will be doing on August 21.  It’s the type of fight that returns boxing to the front page.”   

Manny, (62-7-2, 39 KOs), who hails from Sarangani Province in the Philippines, is the one-time Boxing Writers Association of America Fighter of the Decade and three-time Fighter of the Year.  He faces his biggest professional boxing challenge when he goes mano a mano with Spence (27-0, 21 KOs), from DeSoto, Texas.  The Pacquiao-Spence world championship event, which headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions.  The pay-per-view will begin at 9 p.m. RT / 6 p.m. PT.  Remaining tickets can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (July 20, 2021) — As we look forward to the showdown between eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and unified WBC/IBF welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr., which is 32 days away, it seems only fitting to look back at Manny’s thrilling victory over  then undefeated WBA welterweight “super” champion Keith Thurman, which took place two years ago today in Las Vegas.  Manny opened the fight with a first-round knockdown of Thurman en route to a 12-round split decision victory.  As Thurman accurately stated in his post-fight interview, “It was a night of blessings and lessons.”  Manny’s victory over Thurman was a career highlight for boxing’s longest and most successful partnership.  For 20 years, Manny has had his trainer, world-famous Freddie Roach, in his corner, literally and figuratively, winning world titles in seven different weight divisions in a career of firsts that not only defines the champion he repeatedly became, but the Filipino spirit which has been embraced by the world.  During those the past 20 years, Manny has played David to a roster of Hall of Fame Goliaths, scoring the most impressive victories of his era against the likes of Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, Juan Manuel Márquez, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, and Shane Mosley.  In his last three fights, which took place during a 12-month period, from July 15, 2018 through July 20, 2019, Manny ran the table, winning welterweight world title fights against Lucas Matthysse, Adrien Broner, and Thurman.  

Below, please find selected clips from ringside, and a link to the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View telecast.          

• Manny Pacquiao vs. Keith Thurman Full Fight | HIGHLIGHTS | PBC ON FOX – YouTube
• Manny Pacquiao: Thurman win the perfect ending, if he wants it – Sports Illustrated
• Manny Pacquiao remains the most riveting fighter of his generation (espn.com)
• Manny Pacquiao beats Keith Thurman by split decision (apnews.com)
• Ellerbe squashes talk of Pacquiao-Mayweather rematch (yahoo.com)
• Dwyre: Manny Pacquiao’s victory would be the ultimate farewell to a storied career – Los Angeles Times (latimes.com)
• Whicker: Manny Pacquiao’s win over Thurman will reverberate for a while – Orange County Register (ocregister.com)
• Manny Pacquiao defies Father Time with another signature victory | Las Vegas Review-Journal (reviewjournal.com)
• Pacquiao mulls future after title stunner (yahoo.com)
• Manny Pacquiao beats Keith Thurman by split decision for welterweight title – Los Angeles Times (latimes.com)
• In a blistering bout, Thurman couldn’t keep up with the ageless Pacquiao (and other observations from Las Vegas) – The Athletic

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Manny (62-7-2, 39 KOs), the one-time Boxing Writers Association of America Fighter of the Decade and three-time BWAA Fighter of the Year, hails from Sarangani Province in the Philippines.  He faces his biggest professional boxing challenge when he takes on Spence (27-0, 21 KOs), of Desoto, Texas.  Spence is 11 years younger and over four inches taller than the amazin’ Manny.  Would Manny have it any other way?  The Pacquiao-Spence world championship event, which headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions.  The pay-per-view will begin at 9 p.m. RT / 6 p.m. PT.  Remaining tickets can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (July 19, 2021) — Tuesday will mark the second anniversary of eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s dethroning of then undefeated WBA welterweight “super” champion Keith Thurman.  Manny, at age 40, became the oldest man to win a welterweight title.  But it was 20 years ago — June 23, 2001 to be exact — that Manny made his U.S. debut as a professional fighter.  Following a sixth-round knockout victory of Kumanpetch Kiatvoraph to retain his WBC International super bantamweight title, on April 28, 2001, in the Philippines, Manny and his manager traveled to San Francisco for a vacation.  In early June, they took a Greyhound bus down the coast to Hollywood in search of a gym and some ring work to stay in shape — literally a busman’s holiday!     

Below are the recollections of Manny, Freddie, Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Lampley, who called the fight from ringside for HBO, and Ross Greenburg, the executive producer of that HBO PPV telecast.

MANNY PACQUIAO

“We were staying in a small apartment in Hollywood, near the Denny’s On Sunset Boulevard, not far from the highway (Highway 101).  The Denny’s and the apartment building are still there,” said Manny.  “We wandered over to a gym that had been recommended to us — Wild Card Boxing Club — and my manager introduced himself to a man in the gym and told him he was looking for a trainer to work mitts with me.  That man turned out to be the gym owner, Freddie Roach, who agreed to work with me.  After the first round, I returned to my corner and said I just found my new trainer.  Freddie was great with the mitts and as I soon found out, great with instruction too.  Suddenly, as I was preparing to go back to the Philippines, we get an offer to challenge IBF junior featherweight champion Lehlo Ledwaba.  I was the No. 3-rated contender and the two fighters ahead of me couldn’t, or wouldn’t, take the fight.  Freddie and I had trained together about two weeks and now I’m walking into the ring at the MGM Grand to fight Ledwaba on HBO Pay-Per-View.  It was crazy!  That fight changed my life.”

WORLD-FAMOUS FREDDIE ROACH   

“I opened up Wild Card in hopes that one day a new Muhammad Ali would walk in looking for a trainer.  And then, in 2001, he did. Only he was nearly a foot shorter, weighed 122 pounds and spoke very little English,” said Freddie.  “I remember the first time we met.  He came in looking for a trainer to work the mitts and after the first round I went back to my corner and said this guy is sensational.  We have a new fighter.  Soon Manny gets the call offering him the Ledwaba fight.  He was getting ready to go back to the Philippines.  If that call comes a day later, Manny misses out on that fight.  We trained for two weeks and every day I’m falling more and more in love with his boxing skills and power.  He was that good.  So now it’s fight week and I’m going to every casino trying to lay a bet on Manny.  Unfortunately, the fight was considered such a mismatch that no casino would post odds on it.  The guys at Top Rank were really giving me the business, saying that Manny didn’t stand a chance and I’m trying to convince them that Manny is going to do a number on Ledwaba.  Top Rank was promoting the show and Manny’s fight was the co-main event to Oscar De La Hoya vs. Javier Castillejo, and Ledwaba was considered the class of the division.  Manny jumped on Ledwaba from the start and finished him in the sixth round.  It was brutal.  But what a night.  I remember we all went to dinner to celebrate at some small restaurant near the MGM Grand.  Manny and I went from strangers to a world championship team in about two weeks.  It sounds like a movie, doesn’t it?”

JIM LAMPLEY          

“Larry Merchant and I had both seen Ledwaba for the first time with our own eyes on April 21 USA, April 22 South Africa when he defended his title against Mexican contender Carlos Contreras on the undercard of Lennox Lewis vs. Hasim Rahman.  That night Ledwaba looked immaculate in easily handling Contreras.  He showed balance, timing, skillful craft, and to our eyes seemed pretty clearly to be the best 122-pound fighter in the world.  He was 33-1–1 against a pretty representative assortment of contenders from varied geographic bases.  We were pleased to learn he would be back on HBO exactly two months later.  

“On the day before Ledwaba vs. Manny Pacquaio (Pock-Yow, we had to practice it and not everyone in the room was having an easy time of it), we met a young Filipino who looked like an unlikely challenger.  Not a lot of experience, seemingly a bit wide-eyed, and a little short of the necessary English language base to explain to all of us non-Tagalog speakers exactly what he was about.  I leaped to the inner conclusion the experienced and confident Ledwaba was likely to school him.  Why not??

“The following evening Ledwaba was swept away by a furious storm of power punching activity, and so were we.  Ledwaba was never in the fight, and by the time Pacquaio had finished him off, in round six, we were well aware that if the world’s best junior featherweight was in the ring in Las Vegas, that was the unknown Filipino, not the skilled South African to whom he had laid waste.  It was the beginning of HBO’s lengthy and colorful journey with one of the greatest and most exciting prizefighters in the history of the planet, and the fact that the story—-twenty years later—-HASN’T ENDED YET is simply mind boggling.  Mind boggling.”   

ROSS GREENBURG

“What I remember vividly about Manny’s arrival on HBO PPV was the two-week notice to face Ledwaba, and our announcers at ringside — Jim Lampley, Larry Merchant, and George Foreman — being given a crash course on his history and his ring acumen.  The fight began with Jim asking the audience to excuse him as he tries to pronounce his name, in the second round Larry Merchant said that coming into the fight people were “wondering if this fight would catapult Ledwaba to superstar status, and now they are wondering if the same can be said of Manny Pacquiao.”  By the end of the fight Larry Merchant said, “I didn’t know anything about Manny Pacquiao before the fight, and I was very impressed with what I saw during the fight, and now I want to see him again.”  It was clear to all of us at ringside and in the truck that we were about to go on a ride of a lifetime with a transformational boxing superstar.”

Manny’s victory over Ledwaba was also the start of arguably boxing’s longest and most successful partnership.  With Freddie in his corner, literally and figuratively, Manny won world titles in seven different weight divisions in a career of firsts that not only defines the champion he repeatedly became, but the Filipino spirit which has been embraced by the world.  Over the past 20 years, Manny has played David to a roster of Hall of Fame Goliaths, scoring the most impressive victories of his era against the likes of Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera, Juan Manuel Márquez, Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto, and Shane Mosley.  In his last three fights, which took place during a 12-month period, from July 15, 2018 through July 20, 2019, Manny ran the table, winning welterweight world title fights against Lucas Matthysse, Adrien Broner, and Thurman.          

Manny (62-7-2, 39 KOs), the one-time Boxing Writers Association of America Fighter of the Decade and three-time BWAA Fighter of the Year, hails from Sarangani Province in the Philippines.  He faces his biggest professional boxing challenge when he takes on undefeated unified WBC/IBF welterweight champion Errol Spence Jr. (27-0, 21 KOs), of Desoto, Texas.  Spence is 11 years younger and over four inches taller than the amazin’ Manny.  Would Manny have it any other way?  The Pacquiao-Spence world championship event, which headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions.  The pay-per-view will begin at 9 p.m. RT / 6 p.m. PT.  Remaining tickets can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

 HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA (July 12, 2021) — Would you buy a used car from the World Boxing Association (WBA)?

In a period of 12 months, from July 15, 2018 – July 20, 2019, eight-division world champion and boxer laureate Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao lit up the welterweight division by knocking out WBA regular welterweight champion Lucas Matthysse, successfully defending that title against former four-division world champion Adrien Broner (world-rated No. 6 by the WBA when they fought 2018-december.pdf (wbaboxing.com), and solidifying his hold on the division by tagging then undefeated WBA welterweight Super Champion Keith Thurman with his first loss while becoming the oldest fighter, at age 40, to win a welterweight title.  A few months later, the world shut down as it battled the Covid-19 pandemic.

Manny (62-7-2, 39 KOs), who had been training in his native Philippines for six weeks, recently moved his training camp to world-famous Freddie Roach’s Hollywood-based Wild Card Boxing Club as he prepares for his August 21 mega battle with unified WBC/IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol Spence, Jr. (27-0, 21 KOs), from Desoto, Texas.Logic would dictate that Manny would be entering the ring at T-Mobile Arena to face Spence as the WBA Welterweight Super Champion. 

SORPRESA!          

On January 29, 2021, without any advance notice or warning, the WBA announced that it had designated Manny a “Champion in Recess” while promoting Regular Champion Yordenis Ugas to welterweight Super Champion — the title Manny won inside the ring — without even fighting for that title.  WBA designates Manny Pacquiao as Champion in Recess – World Boxing Association (wbaboxing.com).  Ugas hasn’t fought since winning the WBA Regular welterweight title on September 6, 2020.  It begs the question, what did Manny receive for the hundreds of thousands of dollars he paid in sanctioning fees to the WBA to sanction his last three title fight victories?        “I can tell you what Manny didn’t receive – DUE PROCESS AND RESPECT,” said Sean Gibbons, president of MP Promotions.  “It took two years to get the world title belt he earned inside the ring by beating the undefeated Super Champion Keith Thurman.  Hell, Manny only received that belt on Saturday.  The WBA never inquired about Manny’s title defense plans.  The WBA never warned us Manny’s Super Champion status could be in jeopardy.  The WBA never informed us that Manny had been designated its Champion in Recess.  We had to read the WBA’s press release on that on the internet.  And speaking of Keith Thurman, the WBA had no concern about his lack of activity when he went over 22 months between title defenses (Danny Garcia on March 4, 2017, and Josesito Lopez on January 26, 2019).  Recess is over.  The two best fighters in the welterweight division are facing each other.  It should be celebrated and properly recognized.  The Ring is even blessing the winner as its welterweight champion.  This is not a sanctioning group.  It is a used car lot.  Take my advice.  Before paying the WBA a sanctioning fee, kick the tires and read the warranty.  Perhaps their new slogan should be Caveat Emptor.”
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The Pacquiao-Spence world championship event, which headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View, Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions.  The pay-per-view will begin at 9 p.m. RT / 6 p.m. PT.  Remaining tickets can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

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For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Photo credit : Chris Farina – ChrisFarina.com / ChrisFarinaPhoto copyright 2021

LOS ANGELES (July 12, 2021) – Eight-division world champion and Philippine Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao went face to face with unified WBC and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. at press conference in Los Angeles Sunday as they previewed their blockbuster championship showdown that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Saturday, August 21 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT as Spence will look to earn a legacy-defining victory, while Pacquiao seeks one more monumental win to add to his first ballot Hall of Fame resume.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, MP Promotions and Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through t-mobilearena.com and axs.com.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Sunday:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“There were a lot of opportunities for me to pick an easier fight than this. But I picked Errol Spence Jr. because I want a real fight and a great fight for the fans. I’m a fighter and boxing is my passion.

“Errol Spence Jr. is aggressive, young and undefeated. He’s dedicated to his career. This is definitely not an easy opponent. This is the kind of opponent you can never underestimate.

“It’s been a long time since I fought a southpaw opponent. We had to change some of our strategy compared to previous fights and we’ll throw some different combinations.

“I don’t think Errol needs advice from Floyd Mayweather. I believe that Errol is a better fighter than Mayweather. Errol can teach Floyd how to fight toe-to-toe.

“I don’t want to be overconfident, because Errol is too good of an opponent. His determination and passion for the sport is always there. When I say I’m going to do something, it’s real and from the heart, it’s not to impress anybody.

“I had started training in the last week of May in the Philippines. So when I got here to Los Angeles, I was just continuing what I was doing. It’s good for me to have the rest that I’ve had the last two years. I’ve been boxing since I was 12 years old until now. When I went back to training, I was still hungry and dedicated.

“I won’t predict another first round knockdown like I had against Thurman. I’m focusing my mind, body and spirit on winning the fight. That’s the only goal.
“This is one of the biggest challenges in my career. I can’t say it’s the biggest, because I’ve been fighting the best fighters in the world for years. But he’s right up there with anyone I’ve faced.

“I’ve been boxing for more than 25 careers as a pro. I think that I’ve seen every kind of style that’s out there.

“This is a one of a kind and prodigious fight. There’s going to be a lot of action in the ring. I’m so thankful for everyone who supports me and I’m happy to be in this position again fighting one of the best fighters in the world.”

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“This is a great opportunity. Coming off of my accident I went right to fighting Danny Garcia and now Pacquiao. A lot of people were in the Pacquiao sweepstakes. When I got the call about this fight, I agreed right away and didn’t give it a second thought.

“There aren’t that many southpaws in boxing, so you don’t usually spar that many. We’ve got a lot of guys in camp now who can fight that left-handed style. Obviously I can’t find someone who fights exactly like Manny, but you can find guys who can mimic the tempo and pace. So that’s who we’ve been working with.

“You can see that Manny is still an explosive fighter with great speed. We’ve been putting together a game plan and we’ve been working on implementing it. Come August 21, you’ll see it in the ring.

“Manny can lull you to sleep giving you compliments. But once the bell rings, he’s going to jump all over you.

“My chin since the accident has been tested in sparring and in the Danny Garcia fight. I imagine Manny is going to try to come in and test it as well.

“Just because he’s 42-years-old I don’t think it’s going to hurt him in training. He’s not blowing up in weight between fights and he’s not distracted. That’s why he’s been the same Manny Pacquiao for decades. I’m looking forward to the same Pacquiao who fought Keith Thurman and before that.

“Manny has a lot of tendencies, of course you’re going to see some things over the span of his whole career. When it’s time to buckle down, you know he’s the guy who’s going to fight. It can be a pro or a con, but he’s going to make it a fan-friendly fight.

“I don’t see myself ever getting knocked out. I just don’t see it. We’re going to be mindful that he has power. He knocked down Thurman and hurt him with a body shot. We’ll keep that in mind. But I’m not thinking about if he can knock me out.

“I have the ability to finish Pacquiao. For me though, I’m focused on winning the fight. If you rush and go for the knockout, you either look sloppy or something goes wrong. I have to fight my fight and at my pace. If the knockout comes, I’ll go for it.

“This is going to be a great fight. Pacquiao is going to bring it like he always does, but I’m definitely going to come through with the victory.”

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