Pacquiao wants Edinburgh boxer

As Manny Pacquiao begins preparations for his next fight against Miguel Cotto, the Filipino has requested Edinburgh southpaw Gary McMillan as a sparring partner.

Pacquiao, a five-weight world champion, thinks highly of McMillan after sparring with him in the run up to his lightweight clash with David Diaz last year and has requested that McMillan return to aid him against Cotto.

McMillan will soon travel out to Freddie Roach’s Wildcard gym in Los Angeles where Pacquiao refines his trade.

The Lochend boxer’s coach Terry McCormack has a strong relationship with Roach.

“This invitation doesn’t surprise,” McCormack told Scotsman.com.

“Freddie rates Gary very highly. Besides, Manny wants McMillan because his next opponent, Miguel Cotto, is famous for being a switch hitter who moves from orthodox to southpaw.”

It has been reported that Pacquiao may only be able to train in the US for a limited period before his fight with Cotto due to a tax revenue law for non-nationals.

It is believed that the Filipino only has a month remaining before he will have to pay tax on his earnings which could cost the boxing superstar millions of dollars.

As a result, Pacquiao and his team may begin preparations outside the US, with Canada, Mexico and the Philippines being suggested.

Source: http://sport.stv.tv/boxing/118911-pacquiao-wants-edinburgh-boxer/


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Godfather Arum's latest hit: Tim Bradley under tent for Manny Pacquiao

Bob Arum will be an octogenarian soon but he is tireless when it comes to lining cannon fodder for his ultimate cash cow Manny Pacquiao.

Now the Top Rank Top Dog has used his sleight of hand to set everything up to bring undefeated WBO 140 pound world champion Tim “Desert Storm” Bradley into his promotional tent and thus set the completely overrated Californian up as a viable opponent for the Pinoy Idol.

Wednesday’s news flash was that Bradley, whose TKO victory over Nate Campbell properly became a no contest after a ruling by the California commission, has suddenly signed a managerial contract with Arum’s personal puppet, manager Cameron Dunkin.

I don’t know if he still does but Dunkin Donuts, a portly lad, used to take his office phone calls and make his calls at the Top Rank Tower in the Howard Hughes complex in Las Vegas.

Dunkin, whose personality ranges from glum to morose, does not even speak to TR matchmaker Bruce Trampler and vice versa. The two have a long term vendetta going on.

But why should Godfather Bob care about that when “Southland” Trampler is on his payroll and Dunkin does his bidding. Dunkin only takes fighters to outside promoters when Uncle Bob gives him a free pass.

Look, Bradley has a promotional deal with Big Gary Shaw. These guys really hate each other so it’s a matter of minutes before Dunkin tries to escapes the grip of Shaw and his slavish network, Shawtime.

Some people call that network Showtime.

Bradley dumps Shaw, Bradley dumps Ken Hershman and Shawtime. The tea leaves are easy to read.

If Floyd Mayweather does not dummy up, after Cotto-Pacman, you will see Bradley-Pacman.

Bradley couldn’t hit Megammany in the ass with a bag of brown rice.

The real Godfather is Marsa Bob Arum, no doubt.

Dunkin is his magnificent marionette.

Exit Big Gary Shaw, stage left.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-5699-NY-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m8d26-Godfather-Arums-latest-hit-Tim-Bradley-under-tent-for-Manny-Pacquiao

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Ex-Pacman rival picks Pacquiao over Cotto

CHICAGO - Former world lightweight champion David Diaz has become a firm believer in Manny Pacquiao ever since the Filipino ring icon took away his 135-lb belt via a ninth-round TKO last year.

And now that “Pac Man" is proceeding with his plans to conquer the heavier weights, particularly the welterweight division in his upcoming “Firepower" duel with tough Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico, Diaz sees yet another Pacquiao triumph.

“Manny is beating the best of the best," Diaz said during a recent press conference in Chicago, admiring how Pacquiao dismantled two marquee rivals after him, Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Hatton. "He’s doing unbelievable things, He is awesome. My hat’s off to him, a great fighter, a great person."

But the 33-year-old Diaz said it won’t be totally a walk-in-the-park for the 30-year-old Pacquiao given Cotto’s “patience."

“(In the end,) Manny will outbox him (Cotto) and beat him in the later rounds. (There’s going be) no KOs (though)," he predicted.

Diaz is making a comeback after a year off following his loss to Pacquiao. On Sept. 26, Diaz is battling two-time world champion Jesus “El matador" Chavez of Mexico in the “Warriors Collide/Windy City Fight Night 6" card set at the UIC Pavilion in his native Chicago.

While Diaz (34-2-1) can predict the outcome of the Pacquiao-Cotto showdown, he declined to make a projection on his duel with Chavez (44-5-0), who previously held the WBC super featherweight and IBF lightweight belts. – Joseph G. Lariosa, GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/170557/ex-pacman-rival-picks-pacquiao-over-cotto

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Papa Mayweather: Miguel Cotto can knock Manny Pacquiao's ass out

Floyd Mayweather Senior’s wrinkled face is a map of hard living.

There are as many nooks, nicks, crannies and crevices on his face that you might think you’re looking at a lunar map.

For a guy whose middle name is Joy, there’s been plenty of pain and anguish, some of it self-inflicted, in his years.

He’s 56 now and, on Saturday he buried his estranged father, Theartha (age 81).

His own ring career was sabotaged by a prison stint for slinging drugs. They say he was once shot at while holding his son, future world champion and boxing supernova Floyd Joy, in his arms.

I don’t know if there is a right side of the tracks in gritty Grand Rapids, Mich., but Mayweather, whose father took a hike when he was only 15, was to the ghetto born.

I don’t claim to be a close friend of his. I’m certainly no associate or confidante of the poetry spouting, Mountain Dew swilling trainer.

But I have been in his presence enough to know he’s not the Heckle & Jeckel cartoon character he portrays on the HBO 24/7 minstrel shows.

Mayweather Sr. is a real man and he knows boxing, the mechanics of the sport, inside and out. If he knew cars the way he knows fighters, he would working on Porsches and Mercedes Benz vehicle and not some gas guzzling clunkers.

I was surprised that Papa M was willing to discuss boxing, seemingly a more mundane topic than ever as he prepared for his father’s wake on Friday in Michigan. But he was and this is part of what he had to say.

On the cold public reaction to Marquez-Mayweather: “Some fights catch on as they get closer to happening. That may be the case here, that the excitement will build as the fight gets closer.”

On his brother Roger’s criminal law problems: “I stay out of it because that is his business. He’s the one that’s got to deal with it, not me. I will say this, though…if he doesn’t learn and learn real fast, it’s going to end in something that’s not so nice.”

On Li’l Floyd showing ring rust Sept. 19: “Every fighter has some ring rust after a layoff. But he will win this fight with Marquez. Marquez is a good, tough fighter but my son is too slick for him.Marquez’s hands will be just too slow. Marquez won’t be able to counter punch Floyd the way he did Pacquiao and others. It’s going to be a big difference in timing. Marquez might think fast but can he get off fast? Floyd won’t let him do that. My son's feet, his hands and his brain are too fast."

On dealing with a lung disease: “It makes you short of breath but I feel good know. I’m going back to Vegas on Tuesday. I want to keep trying to help my son get ready for Marquez.”

On the Pacman-Cotto fight coming Nov. 14: “I think Pacquiao is too much for Cotto right now but my thing is if Cotto can hit hard to the body and to the head, he can knock Pacquiao out. Cotto knock his ass out! If he don’t land those shots, he is not gonna win against Pacquiao.”

Maybe this is an appreciation of Floyd Senior. Come to think of it, it is.

Deal with it because, when it comes to boxing and the hard knocks of life, this man is an expert.

He never went to college but he is loaded with common sense.

Source: http://www.examiner.com/x-5699-NY-Boxing-Examiner~y2009m8d23-Papa-Mayweather-Miguel-Cotto-can-knock-Manny-Pacquiaos-ass-out

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Pacquiao to lose by KO to Cotto, says ex-champ

Amidst the snowballing prediction of a Manny Pacquiao win over Miguel Cotto in their November 14 showdown at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, there’s a single voice bold enough to go against the current tide.

Former world champion Paul Malignaggi is betting his money on a Cotto victory over Pacquiao three months before the blockbuster bout is held.

As early as last June when a meeting between Cotto and Pacquiao was still unthinkable, Malignaggi already picked the tough Puerto Rican to walk past the Filipino ring superstar considered today as the top pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

Now that the face-off has become a reality, the 28-year old American from Brooklyn, New York stands by his earlier choice.

“I still stand by what I said," Malignaggi said in an interview with BoxingScene a day before he takes on former three-time world champion Juan Diaz in a 12-round bout at the Toyota Center in Houston.

“I think Cotto would knock him (Pacquiao) out…..Wait until everyone gets their reality check on November 14."

Although facing a natural welterweight in Cotto for the first time, the 30-year old General Santos City native has been initially installed as a 2-1 favorite to win the bout, owing to his status as the most feared fighter in the world today and to the string of victories he had scored in the last few years that saw him annihilate the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Marco Antonio Barrera, Eric Morales, David Diaz and Juan Manuel Marquez.

But none of that would make Malignaggi change his mind and switch loyalty to Pacquiao.

For him, Cotto is just too strong for Pacquiao to topple.

“The guy hits like a beast," said the one-time International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior welterweight king.

Malignaggi is an authority when it comes to Cotto.

Both undefeated back then, the two clashed for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior welterweight belt in 2006 at the famed Madison Square Garden, with Malignaggi suffering a 12-round decision loss to Cotto, who sent the New York native to the canvass in the second round.

At the end of the fight, Malignaggi had a broken right cheek bone, a bleeding nose and a cut around the left eye caused by a headbutt.

He admitted that the 28-year old Cotto is so far, the best fighter he ever faced in his career.

Malignaggi saw Cotto at his best again as he was at ringside when the Puerto Rican eked out a split decision win against Ghana’s Joshua Clottey to retain his WBO welterweight belt two months ago at the Garden.

“I’ve said it that Clottey would be a tougher fight for Cotto than Pacquiao," he pointed out.

“I think if they even put Pacquiao in the ring with Clottey, Clottey would knock him out also." – GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/170467/pacquiao-to-lose-by-ko-to-cotto-says-ex-champ

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Early odds: Pacquiao 2-1 favorite over Cotto

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Manny Pacquiao is at least a 2-1 favorite to win over world welterweight champion Miguel Cotto with less than three months left to their Nov. 14 megafight, according to Las Vegas and other international online oddsmakers.

Based on early betting lines, Bodog Sportsbook lists Pacquiao a minus 265 favorite, which means one needs to bet $265 to win $100. Conversely, a $100 bet on Cotto wins a little more than double at $205.

Early odds offered by Book­maker.com are slightly better for Pacquiao fans. A $245 investment on Pacquiao wins $100, while a $100 wager on Cotto nets $195.

The odds in favor of Pacquiao, the reigning pound-for-pound king, are almost the same in UK online betting sites. Bookmakers Skybet, PaddyPower and ToteSport listed Pacquiao a 2-1 favorite.

The odds could change as the fight gets closer, but the betting odds usually get stiffer for those betting on the favored fighter, in this case Pacquiao.

For instance, the betting lines started at minus 180 soon after the fight was announced, meaning betting that amount of dollars wins $100. As of August 20, the odds have changed to minus 190, which means a $190 bet on the Filipino icon nets $100.

As underdog, a $100 wager on Cotto wins $220 when betting lines opened at MGM Grand; now, a $100 bet on the Puerto Rican World Boxing Organization welterweight champ fetches $240.

However, Pacquiao cautions betting persons not to put too much attention on the odds, stressing that when two conditioned fighters square off in the ring anything can happen.

Speaking of conditioning, Cotto started training early for this fight, reporting to the Abner “Pin” Cotto Gym in Aguas Buenas in the first week of August.

“It’s never too early to start training, especially when fighting a boxer with Pacquiao’s caliber,” reported Puerto Rican daily Primera Hora.

Cotto’s Chief trainer Joe Santiago said Cotto will start with a thrice weekly training regimen, gradually building that up to optimize results

Pacquiao, meanwhile, is trying to finish commitments in the Philip­pines, mostly filming his television series “Totoy Bato” and a comedy movie with Philippine Olympic silver medalist Onyok Velasco, basketball star Benjie Paras and comedian Long Mejia.

Pacquiao trainer Freddie Roach said he wants his prized boxer to spend at least eight weeks in trai­ning camp, which he expects to start after completing the fight’s promotional tour.

As suggested by his trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao may start his training in Baguio City.

Despite his many non-boxing commitments, Pacquiao stressed that he is not taking Cotto lightly. Pacquiao said he considers Cotto his toughest fight.

Source: http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2009/aug/22/yehey/sports/20090822spo1.html

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Floyd says Marquez beat Pacquiao twice

MANILA -- Former pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather, Jr. claims Juan Manuel Marquez is the better fighter compared to Manny Pacquiao, which is why he picked to fight the Mexican champion.

“Marquez is one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. He was knocked down three times [by Pacquiao] and still got a draw. We all know who won there. I thought Marquez won the second time,” Mayweather said in a report by Boxing Scene.com.

Mayweather, who is due to face Marquez on September 19, said the Mexican’s ring prowess has prompted him to train hard for the fight.

“I picked the guy who won, not the guy who lost. That tells me to take this fight seriously and to train hard," he said.

Pacquiao and Marquez first fought to a controversial draw in 2004. The Filipino knocked down the Mexican champion thrice in the first round but Marquez fought back to even out the fight.

The two again faced each other four years later where Pacquiao secured a split decision. The Filipino scored a knock down against Marquez in the third round and this gave Pacquiao the victory.

Mayweather, meanwhile, is returning from a near two-year retirement. He will be facing Marquez at a catch weight of 144 pounds.

"I didn't want an easy opponent for my return and that's why I accepted the fight with Juan Manuel Marquez. Marquez is a great Mexican fighter and one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in boxing," said the former pound-for-pound king.

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/08/20/09/floyd-says-marquez-beat-pacquiao-twice

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Pacquiao in no hurry to open camp for Cotto

His rival, Miguel Cotto, has started training for their Nov. 14 showdown but Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao is in no hurry to commence his.

The Pacman counts 85 more days before “Firepower," his much-awaited tussle with WBO welterweight champion Cotto at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, which he said, will still provide ample time for his training camp.

“Don't worry, we have plenty of time (to train)... Everything is under control," Pacquiao wrote Thursday in his Kumbinasyon column for Abante and PhilBoxing.com.

At the moment, Pacquiao spends his time with his other passion – acting. The 30-year-old Pacquiao is shooting his movie project, Wapakman, and upcoming sitcom for GMA Network, Show Me The Manny with co-star Marian Rivera.

The reigning pound-for-pound king said he’s enjoying his showbiz forays, which he noted could be more taxing than fighting in the ring.

“Marami pa namang oras ang nakalaan sa pag-train para sa isa sa pinakamahirap na laban ng aking career at sa ngayon ay masaya ako at nalilibang sa aking mga proyekto kahit na minsan ay talaga ring nakakapagod," he said.

“Minsan nga, parang mas madali ang pagboboksing dahil ito ang aking nakasanayan at talaga namang mahal ko ang sport na ito," he added.

Manny Pacquiao as he trains for his showdown with Ricky Hatton last May. AP
While Pacquiao goes about his non-boxing activities, Cotto returned to the gym early August and announced that he would start full-time training for the Pacquiao fight on Aug. 24, according to BoxingScene.com.

Pacquiao plans to hit the gym by September yet but as always, he is expected to sink his teeth into getting into tip-top shape against Cotto, whom he considered a tough opponent.

The pride of General Santos City and Sarangani added that reports of “monstrous tickets sales" for “Firepower" had give him extra motivation to report for training soon. - GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/170261/Pacquiao-in-no-hurry-to-open-camp-for-Cotto

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Manny Pacquiao: The True Cash King of Boxing

In just two days, tickets for the anticipated welterweight championship battle between the current pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao and the Boricua Bomber Miguel Angel Cotto, billed as Fire Power, almost sold out; this is not so surprising because Cotto and Pacquiao are two of the best pugilists of the sports today.

Now there is another welterweight fight brewing prior to the Pacquiao-Cotto clash: the Number One/Numero Uno, which features the former pound for pound king Floyd "Money" Mayweather against the current WBA/WBO Lightweight champion Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez. This scrimmage was originally scheduled on July 18, but it was almost scrapped due to Mayweather's unforeseen rib injury suffered during training. Despite the brief delay, the bout will now push through and it is now scheduled to air on HBO pay-per-view on Sep. 19, in conjunction with the independence day of Mexico. Still... the ticket sales are meager and slow.

Meanwhile the Fire Power match-up of Cotto and Pacquiao does not rely on undercards to sell. It is already perceived and recognized as an important and momentous saga in the history of boxing by most sports pundits even without the supporting bouts. This vintage skirmish is no doubt a best-seller: a novel so engaging that sports fans and HBO subscribers will never miss it even if it costs a fortune.

Floyd Mayweather constantly claims that he is the money-maker: the cash king of the Sweet Science, but figures and results do not lie--both facets point to the real cash king, the true money-maker, Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao. With his historic battle against Miguel Cotto, Pacquiao aims to solidify his legacy even further by capturing his seventh title in seven different divisions; a feat that has not been achieved by any pugilist: not the great Muhammad Ali, not the flashy Sugar Ray Leonard, not the legendary Sugar Ray Robinson, and definitely not the overhyped Money Mayweather.

So who is the certified cash King of boxing? It's none other than the pound for pound best and the new Golden Boy Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao.

Source: http://philboxing.com/news/story-26572.html

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Report: Cotto finally stakes WBO belt vs Pacquiao

MANILA -- The contract for the Manny Pacquiao-Miguel Cotto match up has finally been signed with the Puerto Rican’s World Boxing Organization belt at stake.

According to Philstar.com, Cotto has agreed to fight at 145 pounds with his title on the line on November 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Pacquiao's legal counsel Jeng Gacal said the revenue cut will be at 65-35 with the lion’s share going to the Filipino superstar.

With the WBO title at stake, Pacquiao now has the chance to become the first boxer in history to win seven world titles in as many divisions.

Pacquiao had previously won the WBC flyweight, IBF super bantamweight, WBC junior lightweight, WBC lightweight and IBO junior welterweight crowns.

He also won the lineal junior welterweight title during his last fight against Ricky Hatton.

Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach said training for the Cotto fight will begin in September.
He said that he has already watched some of Cotto’s bouts.

“I have been concentrating on how well he did against Shane Mosley. How he neutralized Shane’s speed,” he said. “Yes, we will have a great game plan for Cotto.”

One factor he considered about Cotto is the Puerto Rican's punching power.

“Of course Cotto’s power is a major concern for me but I really think that we will have no problems,” said Roach. “I’m training Manny not to get hit.”
as of 08/13/2009 9:19 PM

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/08/13/09/report-cotto-finally-stakes-wbo-belt-vs-pacquiao

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24 things you want to know about Pacman

Twenty-four days. That was all it took for Jinkee Pacquiao to lose 13 lbs. (she overshot her goal by three lbs. since she only wanted to take off 10). Of course, that was with the help of the Belo Diet Injections. Jinkee’s weight problems started when she got pregnant with daughter Princess. After her delivery, she decided to seek the help of Dr. Vicki Belo who made her undergo smart-lipo, a safe procedure that got rid of the unwanted fat she gained during the pregnancy.

While Jinkee was more than happy with the results of the smart-lipo done to her at the Belo Medical Center, she got pregnant again (practically in close succession) with Queen Elizabeth. Fortunately, her weight problem was not as bad — thanks to the smart-lipo that eliminated most of her fat cells where the fats usually grow. However, having undergone pregnancy, she still had some excess fat to remove, especially since she wanted to look good and shapely when she sits in the front row during her husband Manny Pacquiao’s fight with Ricky Hatton. Both Jinkee and Manny were winners that time. Manny put Hatton to sleep — although not so gently — while Jinkee looked fabulous as the champ’s wife.

Jinkee credits her weight loss to the Belo Diet Injections, which was administered to her daily. In the beginning, Jinkee made daily trips to the Belo Medical Center for the injections and where her diet was also supervised (no breakfast — only chicken breast and medium-sized steak for lunch and dinner). However, when she had to leave for the United States to join Manny during the preparations for the fight, Jinkee merely asked a West Coast-based friend who knew how to do injections to administer the daily doses to her (that is how simple the procedure is).

Jinkee has maintained her curvy figure and credits those 24 days of Belo Diet Injections with the Belo Medical Group for the success. She admits that she tries to look good for Manny — not only to please him, but also because “If your husband is popular, you also have to look your best so that he will be proud of you.”

In connection with those 24 days (“those were easy,” says Jinkee who didn’t even have to exercise), I decided to ask her to reveal some 24 things the public probably didn’t know about Manny. Here they are below — courtesy of the one person who knows him best, his wife Jinkee:

1) Manny’s first gift to Jinkee was a heart-shaped gold necklace. No, it didn’t have diamonds since Manny was not yet the rich and successful boxing champ he is now that time.

2) He is scared of cockroaches and this boxing legend who is never frightened of his opponents on the ring jumps all over the place at the sight of this insect.

3) He is the resident comic in the house. “Even if I am angry, he can make me laugh,” says Jinkee.

4) He gets angry when Jinkee comes home late — especially when he gets home ahead of her.

5) He gets jealous when Jinkee prettifies herself. “He checks on me regularly and tries to find out who is with me when I go out. Little does he know that if ever I go out with men — mga bading ‘yun.”

6) Manny gets sad when he and Jinkee get into a fight and she wouldn’t get appeased.

7) His favorite dish that she prepares for him is tinolang manok with plenty of malunggay — and kare-kare, too.

8) Manny eats anything sent to him by his mother, Dionisia.

9) His favorite color is blue.

10) His favorite shirt is a blue Banana Republic.

11) The longest time he spends in the bathroom is 20 minutes.

12) He sleeps in boxer shorts.

13) He sprays cologne before he sleeps.

14) He sleeps on his back — with Jinkee resting on his shoulder.

15) He never spanks his kids. He only talks to them to discipline them. When the children get picky in the dining table, he tells them that they should be grateful that they have food on the table, while other kids starve.

16) When he and Jinkee get into an argument, he only keeps quiet, while she is the one who keeps talking.

17) His idea of relaxation is staying at home and doing videoke. He also plays billiards.

18) He got upset when Jinkee first went to Belo for treatments. What for? He wanted to find out. Jinkee carefully explained to him the procedures and when he found out everything was safe, he gave his blessings and it’s no longer an issue with him today. He even appreciates Belo now for everything the center is doing to his wife and has agreed to pose with her for the Belo billboards.

19) He prays before he sleeps and upon waking up.

20) Manny may love his mother like any loving son would, but he is more scared of Jinkee than his mother.

21) With his power, influence and wealth, he knows when people are sucking up to him.

22) He doesn’t have to warn her about the people buttering them up — she knows (Jinkee is actually very bright and sensible).

23) He passes on people who want to do business with him — or need anything from him — to her.

24) He finds Jinkee sexier now, especially after her Belo treatments.

Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=495493&publicationSubCategoryId=70

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Roach battleplan: Keep Pacquiao out of Cotto's reach

MANILA, Philippines - How to keep Manny Pacquiao away from Miguel Cotto’s heavy hands is the main concern of the Filipino boxer’s trainer, Freddie Roach.

It’s not that Pacquiao doesn’t have the chin, but the three-time Trainer of the Year, is just making sure that the unexpected doesn’t happen when the two fighters collide on Nov. 14 in Las Vegas.

“Manny has a really good chin because he has a big heart. Of course Cotto’s power is a major concern for me but I really think that we will have no problems. I’m training Manny not to get hit,” he said.

In a recent interview with doghouseboxing.com, Roach said it was Pacquiao, the reigning pound-for-pound champion, who decided to take on Cotto, the reigning WBO welterweight champion, and not Shane Mosley or Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Pacquiao must have seen something from ringside when Cotto faced Josh Clottey a few months ago.

“Manny has always wanted to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. The Mayweather fight got delayed because of injury and Manny needed a fight around year’s end. After watching the fight Manny told (Bob) Arum that he could beat Cotto,” said Roach.

And now that the fight contract has been sealed, signed and delivered, Roach said the battleplan is in the making.

“Of course. I have already watched several hours of Cotto’s fights. I have been concentrating on how well he did against Shane Mosley. How he neutralized Shane’s speed. Yes, we will have a great game plan for Cotto,” said Roach.

Training for Pacquiao should begin by the second week of September, and based on early plans, the first week will take him to Baguio City, a great summer destination 250 kms north of Manila, and 1,500 meters above sea level.

Then the next four or five weeks will take Pacquiao to Mexico, in the resort town of Nuevo Vallarta, while the final push, probably the last two weeks, will see the FIlipino icon training in Los Angeles or straight to Las Vegas.

Roach explained that Pacquiao can no longer train the whole eight to 10 weeks in the US.

“Because of immigration laws he must spend five weeks training outside America. The laws say we can spend 183 days (yearly) in America and that means the last three weeks of training will be here at the WildCard,” Roach told David Tyler of doghouseboxing.com.

Michael Koncz, a Pacquiao adviser, said the boxer likes the idea of training in Mexico where he can give his fans more time to know him more, and how Mexican fight fans love him.

“He’d be very happy to do that as a cross-over star. Mexican fans love Manny. And when I was there recently all they asked me about is where’s Manny. There was a rumor two weeks ago he was in Nuevo Vallarta, but it didn’t push through and everybody I ran into asked about him.

“Manny will be happily surprised when we get to Mexico. He’d be surprised about his popularity there,” Koncz added.

Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=495260&publicationSubCategoryId=69

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Arum: Pacquiao-Cotto contract to be inked Wednesday

MANILA, Philippines -- Top Rank head Bob Arum said he has crossed the t’s and dotted the i's for the Manny Pacquiao-Miguel Cotto showdown, adding that he is expecting signed contracts from both camps by Tuesday, Aug. 11 (Wednesday, Aug. 12 in Manila).

Speaking to Michael Marley of examiner.com, the ageless promoter said the fight would be held at a catch weight of 145 pounds, and with Cotto’s WBO welterweight title on the line.

"Everything has been decided and agreed to," Arum told Marley. "Cotto is defending the title and the weight limit (will) be 145 pounds."

Earlier reports said Cotto was not keen on putting his welterweight strap on the line, mainly because the Puerto Rican did not want to pay the sanctioning fee required by the WBO.

Cotto also reportedly insisted on a 147-lb weight limit.

"There are no (more) disagreements or problems. Now, everything is cleared up," Arum added.

This development opens up a rare opportunity for Pacquiao to become the first boxer in history to win seven world titles in as many divisions -- having previously wrested the WBC flyweight, IBF super bantamweight, Ring Magazine featherweight, WBC junior lightweight, WBC lightweight and IBO junior welterweight crowns.

Arum added that tickets for the Pacquiao-Cotto bout will be available for sale on Aug. 17.

Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=494775&publicationSubCategoryId=200

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If Pacquiao decides to train in RP, Roach wants Baguio

If Manny Pacquiao decides to spend the first half of training camp in the Philippines, trainer Freddie Roach said Saturday he doesn’t have a choice but follow what the big boss wants.

But Roach said he would like to make a simple request.

“If we train in the Philippines, I’d tell Manny to train in Baguio,” Roach told the Bulletin. “Not in Cebu. I heard the weather is fine up there (in Baguio) and there’d be less distractions (compared to Cebu or elsewhere).”

“Realistically speaking, I’d like to train (Pacquiao) outside the Philippines but…” said Roach, aware that Pacquiao has the final say on the matter.

With a little three months to go before Pacquiao faces Miguel Cotto on Nov. 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Roach is getting antsy as he has yet to get a call either from Pacquiao’s camp or Top Rank informing him of the latest developments.

“I have not heard from them,” said Roach, when asked about the other pertinent details of the Pacquiao-Cotto slugfest.

Pacquiao is being advised to train outside the US for the first four weeks to avoid shelling out millions in taxes.

Top Rank head Bob Arum is offering Pacquiao to train in utmost seclusion in the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas courtesy of a dear friend, while Pacquiao lawyer Franklin Gacal is training his sights on Vancouver, Canada.

Others being considered are Mexico and the Philippines with Manila and Cebu being mentioned as possible sites aside from Baguio.

While Roach is in the dark, the multi-awarded cornerman has already made a big step as far as the start of training camp is concerned.

“I have already contacted four guys who will be Manny’s sparring partners,” Roach, rattling the names of Raymond Serrano and Urbano Antillon as the two of the four he wants to see in training camp.

Serrano and Antillon helped Pacquiao in the buildup to the Ricky Hatton fight last May.

Meanwhile, World Boxing Council (WBC) president Jose Sulaiman said the WBC will not hesitate to sanction the Pacquiao-Cotto bout as a world title fight once Arum makes a request to the governing body.

“The WBC would absolutely authorize and approve it,” said Sulaiman, who recently revealed that a new belt, the WBC Diamond Belt, has been approved by the Board of Governors for the benefit of some of boxing’s most elite fighters like Pacquiao.

There is still trouble brewing over Cotto’s insistence that his fight with Pacquiao will just be a non-title fight and that his World Boxing Organization throne won’t be on the line as agreed upon earlier by the two camps and Top Rank as well.

Sulaiman said the WBC is more than willing to fill the void.

Source: http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/215005/if-pacquiao-decides-train-rp-roach-wants-baguio

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Manny Steward Says 'Miguel Cotto lo noqueará'

... Or, in English, “Miguel Cotto will knock him out.”

He’s referring, of course, to Manny Pacquiao, who Cotto is scheduled to fight on November 14. Steward, a Hall-of-Fame trainer who is best known for training Tommy Hearns and Lennox Lewis, is aggressively angling for the job of training Cotto for the Pacquiao fight. Yesterday, in an interview with the Puerto Rican daily Primera Hora, he stated flatly that if Cotto retains his services, there is no doubt in his mind that Cotto will knock Pacquiao out.

Of course, Steward wouldn’t be so publicly clamoring for the Cotto gig were it not for the fact that Cotto recently had an explosive split with his long-time trainer (and full-time uncle) Evangelista Cotto. Tensions that simmered between the two for years finally boiled over this past April, leading to a fistfight that started in a Puerto Rican gym and eventually made its way out to the parking lot, reputedly concluding with Evangelista hurling a cinder block through the windshield of his fighter-nephew’s Jaguar.

Since that incident, Cotto fired his uncle and promoted his nutritionist, Jose Santiago, to be his head trainer, a move that left many in the boxing world scratching their heads. Cotto is known to be very loyal to his circle, but how long can he expect to compete at the elite level without an elite trainer?

Manny Steward is about as elite as they get, and he clearly thinks the time is now for Cotto to step up to the A-list as far as his training goes. He told Primera Hora that he’s a big admirer of Cotto and that he believes there are many ways that he can improve the fighter. Should Cotto take him up on the offer, it definitely would raise the octane level of what is already shaping up to be the biggest and possibly best fight of the year. Not only would there be two superstar fighters in the ring, but each would have a superstar trainer in his corner. And just as Freddie Roach vs. Floyd Mayweather Sr. stole some headlines from the Pacquiao/Hatton fight, no doubt Freddie Roach vs. Manny Steward would become a major storyline for Pacquiao/Cotto.

Source: http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/the_sporting_blog/entry/view/29430/manny_steward_says_miguel_cotto_lo_noquear%C3%A1

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Roach says Mayweather best pick for Pacquiao

MANILA, Philippines - Freddie Roach can’t take his eyes off Floyd Mayweather Jr.

As Miguel Cotto opened the doors to his training camp the other day, three months before his scheduled bout with Manny Pacquiao, the three-time Trainer of the Year said he still considers Mayweather as the best fight out there for the Filipino boxing icon.

Roach told fighthype.com if he could have his way, he’d rather see Pacquiao fighting Mayweather – and no one else.

“I want Mayweather right now. I wanted him first the whole time. I mean, let’s face it, that’s the fight the whole world wants to see; the fight I want to see,” said Roach, who nonetheless has started doing his homework for the showdown with Cotto on Nov. 14.

Roach said there are many reasons why he considers Mayweather as the best choice. More than the revenues it could generate, the hottest trainer in the sport today said he likes Pacquiao’s chances against the American ex-pound-for-pound champion.

Better than Cotto, the WBO welterweight champion, or Shane Mosley, the WBA welterweight king.

“I think he’s the easiest fight of the three. He’s not that big. He’s not that strong. He breaks down quickly. He’s been off for two years,” Roach said of Mayweather, who comes out of retitrement to fight Juan Manuel Marquez next month.

“You know, at 135 and 140, he might have been great, but at 47 and 54, I don’t see the greatness...I think Manny will knock him out,” he added.

Yesterday, Roach also told boxingscene.com he was quite puzzled why Mayweather took on Marquez instead of Pacquiao, and that the fight, recently postponed, was announced on the day Pacquiao fought Ricky Hatton last May 2.

“I don’t get it. All he (Mayweather) had to do was wait one more day (after the Hatton fight) and he could have had Manny. I would have loved to have gotten to Floyd before Marquez, but that’s that,” said Roach.

He’s not looking past Cotto, still a dangerous opponent, but Roach would have loved if it was Mayweather instead they’re preparing for right now.

“When I was in the UK last month that was all anyone wanted to ask me about. That’s the fight that has to be made. Bob and Al Haymon (Mayweather’s adviser) will have to put their differences together to make that fight because it would be good for the entire sport,” Roach said.

“It’s a fight that has to happen. People talk about making big fights, but to me, that’s about as big as they come. I think it will happen,” Pacquiao’s trainer of eight years added.

Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=493828&publicationSubCategoryId=69

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Pacquiao-Cotto vs Mayweather-Marquez: Top Rank over Golden Boy in the Early Rounds (Plus ask Freddie Roach!)

Two mega bouts just months apart and Top Rank has won the promotional fight by fueling the media with doubts. Of course I’m referring to the Manny Pacquiao / Miguel Cotto fight. Bob Arum may be a genius or is it raw luck? Since he announced that the Ninja and Cotto had agreed to throw down in November the following events have captured the boxing fans attention:

- Arum goes on vacation leaving both camps to negotiate a deal.
- Both teams can’t agree on money or the weight limit.
- Pacquiao’s camp says they might fight Mosley instead of Cotto.
- Arum gets back from vacation and settles all disputes, maybe.
- The Ninja wants belt number seven but Cotto and the WBO say he gets it at 147lbs. not 145 lbs.

Now let’s take a look at the other mega fight set for next month. That would be Floyd Mayweather Jr. / Juan Manuel Marquez. What’s happening in this camp? No news is not good news in the world of boxing promotion. Why is Mayweather Jr. not talking to the media? Where are the controversial statements? Why the trouble selling out this event? Could it be no publicity coming from Golden Boy Promotions? Oscar where are you when we need you? Are you counting on 24/7 to draw the PPV viewers? Haven’t we already seen Marquez up in the mountains pounding tires with a hammer? How about Mayweather Jr. bragging how he is the greatest boxer in history? Been there done that!

Do you really believe that Cotto would turn down a fight against the Ninja which would fill his bank account with millions and millions of dollars? Do you think that a two pound difference would cause the fight to come to a screeching halt? Mosley belongs to Golden Boy and Cotto belongs to Top Rank. Let’s do the math together, if the Ninja fights Cotto then Arum gets all the promoters share of the fight. If the Ninja fights Mosley then Arum splits the money with Oscar De La Hoya. No way Mosley takes Cotto’s spot against the Ninja.

In a nutshell….Pacquiao / Cotto was a done deal the night of the Cotto / Clottey fight when the Ninja told Bob Arum he wanted to fight Cotto. The rest is all hype benefiting the promotion of the event.

Super trainer Freddie Roach says “he is tired of the back and forth nonsense, I just want my fighter in camp preparing for the fight.”

Lee Samuels of Top Rank believes that Pacquiao/ Cotto is capturing the public’s attention because “both fighters are so evenly matched no clear winner, it’s up for grabs.” Hmmm…not so sure about that Lee. The last time I saw the Ninja he was throwing power punches so fast they left vapor trails.

Early on it looks like the Mayweather Jr. / Marquez fight will have trouble selling PPV buys. The flip side of the coin is everyone can’t wait for the Ninja to do his thing against Cotto. Fireworks for sure!!!

Source: http://www.doghouseboxing.com/DHB/Tyler080609.htm


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How much are you willing to bet on Cotto?

YOU CAN’T BLAME BOB ARUM FOR losing his cool after his sales pitch for Manny Pacquiao’s next fight failed to reach the man at bat.

Last heard of, Mr. Arum was still aching to send his message.

Sorry, but nobody appeared willing to listen a second time after Arum declared, with pontifical certainty, that Pacquiao’s next outing against Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto would be hard to call.

Arum said Pacquiao-Cotto is a “pretty even fight.”

* * *

That sales line, served like a tough, tasteless steak, predictably received a cold-shoulder treatment.

No, the fight set at the Las Vegas MGM Grand on Nov. 14, was not totally dumped.

But, in response, oddsmakers readily pegged Pacquiao an overwhelming 2-1 favorite.

Over at the sportsbook windows, that’s double-your-money for those who would dare go for Cotto.

On the other hand, you need to shell out $200 in order to collect a measly $100 dividend in the event of an expected Pacquiao win.

* * *

So what did Arum next resort to?

Poor Uncle Bob, huffing and puffing, proceeded to tinker with the poundage, as though the fight would be decided over the obedient weighing scales, not inside the cruel, exacting ring.

He also allowed himself to be slurred in a tasteless word war with the top man at the WBO.

Although not reminiscent of any past Arum master stroke, that ploy did create enough noise.

Arum also fired another sales salvo, a cute one, and declared “Firepower” as the main label of the welterweight duel.

* * *

But, try hard as he did, Arum’s initial sales pitch continued to be treated like a foul ball.

Meanwhile, the Pacquiao-Cotto bout loomed as another budding mismatch.

For one, they could not present a single Cotto fight video that would show he has got the hardware to effectively slash it out with Pacquiao.

OK, Cotto may indeed have some hidden firepower somewhere inside him.

But there’s nothing whatsoever that say he could effectively defend himself once the firefight starts.

* * *

Of course, the only thing that could save Cotto is great head movement.

The truth is that poor David Diaz, whom Pacquiao flattened with gusto, had shown better head use than the bigger but terribly predictable Cotto.

Well, who knows, there could be some brilliant, invisible moves that Cotto has stocked up on.

But, like it or not, it will be a breathless race once the Pacman ignites and explodes.

Arum stands a chance of scoring a homer, but only if he can assure that he’s not pitting a lumber yard log carrier against a sleek Formula One racer at the MGM Grand on Nov. 14.

Last but not the least, Arum did not have to call on the discredited Floyd Mayweather Sr. to help advertise Cotto’s limited worth.

Source: http://sports.inquirer.net/columns/columns/view/20090806-218940/How-much-are-you-willing-to-bet-on-Cotto

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Manny nearly pulls out of Cotto fight

MANILA, Philippines - Manny Pacquiao came close to pulling the plug on Miguel Cotto if not for the assurance by promoter Bob Arum that the Puerto Rican will stake his World Boxing Organization welterweight title at a catchweight of 145 lb on Nov. 14.

Pacquiao’s lawyer, Franklin Gacal, yesterday said they were already preparing an official statement saying they will have to start looking for another opponent after reports said Cotto was not willing to stake his 147 lb title.

The reports quoted Cotto as saying he will only stake his WBO title if the fight is held at 147 lb, the welterweight limit, and that the 28-year-old champion was not willing to pay WBO the $150,000 sanctioning fee.

“Bob Arum told us not to believe everything that’s being reported. Then he assured me that Cotto will put his WBO welterweight title on the line -- at 145 pounds,” said Gacal from Gen. Santos City yesterday.

“We have to take Mr. Arum’s word on that,” added Gacal.

The Pacquiao lawyer said with the weight issue practically settled, now comes the money issue, although he said both camps have had an agreement regarding the purse sharing.

But Gacal did not give out the details, only saying that a 65-35 sharing in favor of Pacquiao should be the “worst-case scenario” for the Filipino pound-for-pound champion and today’s main attraction in boxing.

Gacal is hoping that the fight contract for Pacquiao vs Cotto be signed as soon as possible so both boxers can start focusing on what they have to do on the ring than on the negotiating table.

Reports said Cotto is scheduled to start working out today in Puerto Rico, while Roach wants Pacquiao to start limbering up before the press tour set on the second week of September.

“We were almost ready to issue a statement that we’ll start looking for a new opponent because of all those talks that Cotto wants Pacquiao to go up to 147 before he stakes his crown,” said Gacal.

Gacal, however, did not mention the boxer they had in mind in case the Cotto fight was scratched. It could be Shane Mosley, who’s offering Pacquiao everything but the kitchen sink, or someone else.

And that could even be Floyd Mayweather Jr., whom trainer Freddie Roach described as “the easiest fight of the three.”

Mayweather, who retired almost two years ago but is slated to return to the ring in September against Juan Manuel Marquez, another fighter drooling over Pacquiao.

The fight was supposed to be held in July but a rib injury sustained by Mayweather in training, coupled by poor ticket sales, led to a cancellation, and a new date on Sept. 19.
as of 08/04/2009 7:16 AM

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/sports/08/03/09/manny-nearly-pulls-out-cotto-fight


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Roach: Pacquiao-Cotto gig will be a title fight

Miguel Cotto wouldn’t want to stake his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight (147-lbs) belt against Manny Pacquiao in their November 14 showdown in Las Vegas.

But Pacquaio’s trainer Freddie Roach expressed belief the Cotto’s strap would eventually be placed on the line in the fight set at a catchweight of 145-lbs – whether the Puerto Rican fighter likes it or not.

“If (Cotto) gives it (welterweight crown) up, I think the WBO will make Manny the number one. We'll pay the sanctioning fee and the title will be on the line. That's what I think will happen," Roach said Sunday in an interview with BoxingScene.Com.

Cotto had publicly expressed his refusal to defend his title against the Filipino ring icon, saying the 145-lb catchweight is “not a category" and that if Pacquiao wanted a title fight, it had to be at the welterweight limit of 147-lbs. He even said he’s willing to give up the strap if the WBO would insist on making it a title fight.

WBO president Francisco Valcarcel himself said it could still be a WBO-sanctioned welterweight title fight, citing a similar precedent, the Oscar De La Hoya-Bernard Hopkins duel for the middleweight (160-lb) crown which was fought at 158-lbs.

Pacquiao, realizing the opportunity to win an unprecedented world title in seven divisions, had instructed his lawyer, Jeng Gacal, to coordinate with Valcarcel and promoter Bob Arum to make the necessary arrangements, including payment of the $150,000 sanction fee.

“I haven't spoken to Manny (about it) but if it was me, I would ask for the title to be on the line. I think regardless of what Cotto says, the title will be on the line," Roach said in the BoxingScene interview.

“I want it for Manny's legacy. Manny won titles at 112, 122, 126, 130, 135, and 140. I want to see him become the first fighter to win seven world titles in seven weight divisions," he added.

Pacquiao, the current International Boxing Organization and Ring Magazine light-welterweight champion, had previously owned titles at flyweight (World Boxing Council), super-bantamweight (International Boxing Federation), featherweight (Ring Magazine), super-featherweight (WBC), and lightweight (WBC). – GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/168844/Roach-Pacquiao-Cotto-gig-will-be-a-title-fight


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SUNDAY VIDEO FEATURE: Pac-mania @ The STAR

Youtube Link

I never leave my post during lunch breaks, simply for the sole reason that I hardly have lunch.

But before noon of July 28, The STAR’s 23rd anniversary, my boss approached me and informed me that Manny Pacquiao – yes, the Manny Pacquiao – will be gracing the company’s anniversary celebration.

Being a self-confessed rabid Pacquiao disciple, my insides rattled upon hearing the news. “Today I’ll be seeing face-to-face the best boxer in the planet today, pound-for-pound,” I discreetly told myself.

I was tasked to shoot Pacquiao’s once-in-a-blue-moon visit to the office, and I willingly obliged. I’ve never seen him up-close, although I saw his fight against Oscar Larios live at the Araneta Coliseum (if my memory serves me right, it was an Upper Box view).

With a video camcorder in hand, I rushed downstairs to join other excited STAR employees waiting to get a glimpse and rub elbows with the Philippines’ favorite son.

Then the rest was history.

I knew from the moment Pacquiao alighted from his black Hummer that this would be a remarkable day for STAR employees. As expected, the king was mobbed. Pandemonium broke. Work stopped as almost all employees left their posts to join the fray.

I managed to squeeze into the crowd and get a clear shot of boxing’s hottest commodity. Pacquiao, ever the gentleman, extended his hands out to everyone wanting to touch them.

Then the blessed hands found mine. It was my turn to shake Manny’s hands, the same lighting-quick, powerful weapons that knocked the senses out of Marco Antonio Barrera, Oscar De La Hoya and most recently, Ricky Hatton, among other tough foes.

Having touched those rough, hard hands, I had a glimpse of the countless hand-wrap and sparring sessions Pacquiao took every time he prepares for a fight. Those hands were the ones that put the Philippines to the worldwide spotlight. And it was an honor for me to shake them.

Pacquiao was given the opportunity to address employees in a prepared speech, something he delivered naturally and charismatically.

“I salute every editor, every writer, every worker, every leader at Philippine STAR. What you have are not just words but dedication to truth, convictions of integrity and passion for excellence,” he said, drawing constant applause from a still-star struck crowd.

“Parang SONA lang ah,” he joked, eliciting laughter from everyone.

He also reminded every employee that the day belonged to them, the true STARS.

“In closing, let me congratulate you for being the country’s number one newspaper. I greet you with all my heart on your 23rd anniversary. Mabuhay ang Philippine STAR.”

As Emmanuel Dapidran Pacquiao was being taken back to his hardcore Hummer by his security staff, he waved a final farewell to the crowd who continued to scream his name.

I didn’t think he realized that while many hands -- big and small -- waved back at him, his remain one of the biggest, most wonderful and most accomplished pair of hands to ever grace 13th Corner Railroad St., Port Area.

Hail, King!

Source: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=492071&publicationSubCategoryId=63

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