The Pacquiao-Hatton match-up has been set for May 2, 2009 most probably in Las Vegas, Nevada with the boxers getting about $20 million each.
Boxing fans from around the world will be treated to a double-header, a-world class boxing competition between two great fighters, and an exciting ‘word war’ from the two equally popular boxing trainers, Freddie Roach and Floyd Mayweather, Sr.
At this early stage where only the date and match-up had been finalized, the two very popular boxing trainers have started throwing unpleasant words to each other. The other day, Hatton’s trainer, Floyd Mayweather Sr, said that ‘Everyone is building up Pacquiao to be the next great thing, but Ricky will handle him’.
Mayweather whose son Floyd Jr looms as the next opponent of the winner of the Hatton-Pacquiao match, has not been friendly with each other since Roach acted as trainer for Oscar dela Hoya when Oscar fought against Floyd Jr.
Earlier Freddie Roach said Hatton will be a tough customer for the Filipino boxing icon but believes that Pacquiao speed and footwork will spell the difference.
Inquirer reports:’ The fight which is expected to give Pacquiao his biggest payday yet, will not only be a battle between two fighters with aggressive styles, but between Mayweather Sr. and Roach, who have actually been feuding for the past two years’.
Mayweather threw verbal jabs at Roach when the California-based trainer handled dela Hoya, his friend and former ward, to fight against Floyd Jr.in May 2007. De la Hoya had cut Mayweather Sr.from his corner after they failed to agree over financial terms and replaced him with Roach.
Many boxing fans from around the world are excited about the forthcoming match-up between Pacquiao and Hatton as the fight promises to be a battle between two talented and multi-awarded boxers. Manny Pacquiao is fresh from his 8-round KO victory over Oscar dela Hoya which was held last December 6, 2008 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas while Hatton won over Paulie Malignaggi late last year after being defeated by Floyd Mayweather Jr. earlier.
Media tours have been scheduled for the two fighters to visit New York, England and California next month to promote the fight.