Fighters in contrast, both Pacquiao and Ugas make weight prior to title fight
By Rich Mazon
PhilBoxing.com
Sat, 21 Aug 2021
LAS VEGAS -- Manny Pacquiao and Yordenis Ugas entered a quiet and subdued MGM Grand Garden Arena for the required weigh-in before their WBA welterweight title fight tomorrow night.
Devoid of cheering fans, onlookers and big entourages because of the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic, both fighters stepped on the scales and made the contracted weight of 147 pounds in front of an audience that is predominantly from the media.
Ugas, the current champion, weighed exactly at 147 pounds while Pacquiao, his legendary opponent from the Philippines and the former holder of his belt, weighed a pound under at 146 pounds.
“I will be in a ring with a legend like Manny Pacquiao. I have a lot of respect for him so I’m very excited but all respect is finished once we get in the ring tomorrow,” Ugas stated after making weight.
Pacquiao (C) with trainers Buboy Fernandez (L) and Freddie Roach during Friday's weighin.
“I am not taking this fight lightly. I don’t want to be over confident for this fight. But I want to make sure that tomorrow night we’re going to get the victory and God willing, the fans will be happy,” was Pacquiao’s statement prior to another record-breaking outing tomorrow in the Fight Capital of the world.
Excited is the least to describe Ugas who was clearly filled with emotions prior to his big challenge tomorrow. A late replacement as an opponent for Pacquiao, this is Ugas’ introduction to big time fights in the bright lights of Las Vegas and he is eager to retain his title.
“I am definitely very excited and very emotional of this opportunity. I have the belt. Whoever wins tomorrow gets the belt. But right now I’m the champion and I’m ready.”
In contrast, Pacquiao is calm and all smiles during the weigh-in. A veteran of many big events, this looked like just another day in the office for the boxer slash senator from the Philippines.
“Tomorrow night, I will give my best to the fans and of course for the honor of my country. This fight will be dedicated to the Filipino people for their unwavering support, love and prayers.”
Subdued as it may be during today’s event, both fighters are aiming to make noise in the sport’s biggest summer offering come Saturday night. Ugas can score the biggest upset of his career or Pacquiao can just make this a reality check for him and maybe end his legendary career with a big bang.
Pandemic or not, Pacquiao is still a must-watch for boxing fans who have been clamoring for big fights these last two years. Hinting at retirement, Pacquiao is sure to save the best for last before calling it a day on his storied career.
The other Filipino in tomorrow night’s PPV event, Mark Magsayo, also made weight prior to his match. He was 125 and a half pounds while his opponent Julio Ceja of Mexico was an even 125 lbs.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Rich Mazon .
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