Manny to climb ring again February

LAS VEGAS – Whether it will be against reigning World Boxing Council super featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez or world lightweight champion David Diaz, Manny Pacquiao is looking for a February date for his next fight.

In an interview with Philboxing.com, Roach said that while there is nothing definite yet on Pacquiao’s next fight “most people want to see a rematch with Marquez.”

Roach admitted that a Marquez rematch would be “a tough fight” but didn’t seem concerned about moving up in weight to fight David  Diaz saying Pacquiao is strong.

The morning after the victory, Pacquiao received more than a hundred guests at his spacious penthouse suite, signing autographs and having his pictures taken with them.

A Holy Mass was held at 10 a.m.

Pacquiao, with a boosted ego and bruises on his face, said the decision to move up to the higher division is not yet final. He said it will really depend on future negotiations on who and where he’s fight next.

“There’s nothing final yet. But I can do it at 130 or 135. I think I can handle both divisions. Whoever the opponent is and wherever but probably my next fight will be in February,” he said in a very calm voice.

Fighting in February or less than four months before Saturday’s means that Pacquiao could be planning to stage three fights next year, the second one either in June of July and the third either in October or November.

Pacquiao fought thrice last year, against Erik Morales in January and November, and Oscar Larios in July. He won all fights via knockout. With the year about to end, he has only fought twice, the first against Jorge Solis last April. – Abac Cordero