Manny Pacquiao Starts Training In Manila For Margarito Fight

Source: ABS-CBNnews.com

MANILA, Philippines -- "Fighter of the Decade" Manny Pacquiao started on Thursday preparations for his November 13 bout against Mexico’s Antonio Margarito.

Pacquiao underwent a stamina workout outside his house in a Laguna subdivision together with assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez and other members of his team.

The Filipino champ, who weighed 150 pounds, did several rounds of jogging to kick off the conditioning phase of his training.

Pacquiao said there’s nothing to worry about Margarito’s height advantage. He said he just has to make adjustments.

“Pinanganak tayong maliksi eh,” he told ABS-CBN News. “Practice tayo ng iba-ibang strategy, mga techniques… Kaya iyan.”

Assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez is also confident that Pacquiao will outpunch the taller Mexican.

“’Wag kayong matakot, mas maganda pag mas matangkad ang kalaban natin. Height lang yan, yung suntok at lakas, mas lamang tayo d'yan,” said Pacquiao’s best friend.

Coach Freddie Roach will join Pacquiao next week. They will formally open camp in Baguio City.

After a month, Team Pacquiao will go to the US where the Filipino champ will wrap up his training.

Pacquiao and Margarito will be battling for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) super welterweight title at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Pacquiao as congressman

The night before the workout, Pacquiao held a fund-raising event for his priority project--the construction of a hospital in Sarangani province.

The fundraiser was held at the New World Renaissance Hotel in Makati City.

Representatives of various companies, fund-giving agencies, and Pacquiao’s friends showed support for the boxer-congressman.

Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson was the first to donate by pledging P500,000.

“Lahat naman ng dumalo tutulong,” said Pacquiao. “After noong hospital, college (school) naman.”

Pacquiao’s boxing robes and shorts were also on display for an auction that aimed to raise more funds for the hospital project. – With a report from Dyan Castillejo, ABS-CBN News