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10/30/2008 Archived Entry: "De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao Special Teleconference Notes"
De La Hoya vs. Pacquiao Special Teleconference Notes
By Rita "La Guera" Figueroa
Female boxer
Rita Figueroa with Oscar De La Hoya several years ago at ringside in Chicago (photo by Jorge Bravo)
A special teleconference call was to make special announcement regarding Team de la Hoya in the build up to the fight Dec 6th at the MGM Grand.
Some notes from Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions (Oscar De La Hoya's boxing promotion company):
HBO 24/7 first episode airs Nov 16th Expecting 30-40/K fans in Vegas for fight including closed circuit television. As these are trying times economically, secured rebates will be made for fight fans who are buying PPV. There will be mail in rebates from the sponsors that all included will pay for the PPV.
Oscar has around acclaimed trainer "Nacho" Beristain in the "Dream Team." What Nacho is doing is amazing per Oscar. However, here's the kicker: Team de la Hoya is also adding Angelo Dundee to his camp.
Dundee, famous for his work with Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard and others, will be reviewing fights tapes -- visit camp, consulting et cetera -- whatever is necessary for him to do. Angelo will speak to Nacho and Oscar regarding his role. Richard stated that Nacho is very capable to lead Oscar to victory.
This fight is extremely important to Oscar. The media feels this fight is supposed to be a walk in the park for Oscar. They don't agree since they are fighting the "Pound for Pound" best fighter in the world. Angelo has the deep knowledge and understanding of the sport. Angelo will not be in the corner, but will be in the front row so he can yell instructions if necessary.
Angelo Dundee speaks:
Angelo then had some words to say. He stated he was pleasantly surprised with his book sales (not to plug-as he stated), he was busier with book that with fighters. He has been having a great time husting his book. He remembers Oscar from the amateur days. He's fought the best early on. He's used to toughness and has talent and Angelo has respected him all these years.
Richard then said, "Thanks to Angelo for joining the call. Angelo had a minor procedure done and his voice was a bit rough."
Q&A Notes
Compare Oscar's move up in weight to Sugar Ray. Angelo stated there is no comparison. They all prepare and approach it differently. Angelo stated there is always a little luck involved. Anyone can be whooped on any given night. Both guys are tremendous pros. De la Hoya is just the guy to beat Pacquiao. Angelo stated this fight compared to other big fights he's been involved in - it's as big as all of them. Angelo stated the weight issue is boloney. The styles of the fighters will determine the winner, not the weight.
