Peterson in race as next foe of Pacman

MANILA, Philippines - Bob Arum yesterday said Lamont Peterson, the reigning IBF and WBA junior welterweight king, is definitely in the running as Manny Pacquiao’s next opponent.

“Yes, he’s in the mix,” the Top Rank chief said.

“I like Lamont and I’m friends with his manager and we once promoted him. Lamont is a very nice young man,” he said.

Arum was on his way to San Antonio for a press conference announcing the Feb. 4 card featuring Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Nonito Donaire when he spoke to The STAR.

The 80-year-old promoter will arrive in Manila on Jan. 10 to sit down with Pacquiao regarding his plans for his next fight.

The who, when and where will be tackled, and Arum said he expects a clearer picture to come out by the time he flies back to the US on Jan. 14.

Arum said he gave Freddie Roach four names to choose from – Juan Manuel Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Tim Bradley and Peterson.

These are the candidates, and whoever gets lucky gets to fight Pacquiao sometime in May or June.

“That’s correct. Those are the four names,” said Arum.

“That’s why I’m coming over,” he added.

Arum, who promoted American daredevil Evel Knievel in his ridiculous Snake River Canyon jump in 1974, said he wants to find out from Pacquiao himself when he wants to fight.

“May and June are two different months. So, we’re holding on to the MGM Grand for those months,” said Arum.

Arum was asked which fight would be easiest to sell among the four, and he responded by saying, “That’s what we’re trying to figure out. That’s what we’re going to discuss.”

Marquez, definitely, will be the easiest to sell, and the one that should make the most money because of the great history between the Mexican and Pacquiao.

But there are those who say there’s nothing more to expect in a fight between Pacquiao and Marquez because it’s going to bear the same result.

Oscar dela Hoya said there’s no need for a fourth fight because nothing will change – even if Pacquiao and Marquez fight a hundred times.

“I think everybody already know what’s going to happen and what will happen. So, what for? There’s nothing better than Marquez can do, and there’s really nothing better than Pacquiao can do. We’ll going to see the same fight,” said Dela Hoya.

Arum also said while he’s already set his eyes on Pacquiao’s next fight, he still believes that Pacquiao vs Floyd Mayweather Jr. will happen this year.

“In November,” he said.