Barotillo confident of stopping Pacquiao

Arnel Barotillo knows he is up against a formidable foe, but the long-time Australia resident believes he has the mindset to overcome huge odds.

Paired against Manny Pacquiao, Barotillo expressed confidence his trip to Manila won't go down the drain as he vowed to win Pacquiao's World Boxing Council (WBC) International super-bantamweight crown on March 4 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

"I've never prepared like this before," said Barotillo shortly upon his arrival Wednesday from Sydney. "I am 100 percent prepared physically and mentally."

The Pacquiao-Barotillo duel, presented by Pagcor-Casino Filipino, is dubbed Tapatan: Walang Atrasan, presented by veteran broadcaster Jay Sonza and promoter Bebot Elorde.

Barotillo has prepared for his first fight in the country in almost four years by sparring with some of Australia's top prospects.

Barotillo had a cameo appearance when he was ranged against former Colombian world champion Harold Mestre at the Folk Arts Theater. Barotillo took the sting out of Mestre in less than two rounds.

Originally from Catanduanes, Barotillo turned pro in the country and before he fought for the 10th time, he migrated to Australia.

Pacquiao sports a 26-2-0 win-loss-draw card with 17 knockouts, while Barotillo enters the ring with a 22-9-3 slate spiked with 15 stoppages.

PTV-4 will televise the fight starting at 9 p.m. President Joseph Estrada has accepted the invitation of Sonza to be the special guest at ringside.