Pacquiao - De La Hoya Megafight in December?

*UPDATE* August 30, 2008 - The fight has been confirmed. The two will meet in a non-title welterweight bout on December 6, 2008.


It looks like the Philippines will be treated to an early Christmas treat from its beloved sporting hero, Manny Pacquiao - a December fight with Oscar De La Hoya.

In this article from ESPN, sources said that a match between pound-for-pound king Pacquiao and boxing's biggest draw, Golden Boy Oscar De La Hoya might happen in December 6 this year. Same sources said that a formal announcement will be made tomorrow ( Friday, Manila Time).

Reports abound that camp of Golden Boy has long been negotiating with Team Pacquiao for a megabuck fight this year. The negotiation hit a snag though when Pacquiao disagreed with the proposed 70 - 30 split from the fight's revenues. With both fighters crowd-drawers (De La Hoya slightly ahead), revenues are expected to be millions high. Perhaps the camp of De La Hoya conceded to the 60 - 40 split said to be asked by Team Pacquiao.

De La Hoya has said that his next fight will be his last. Being an astute businessman as he is, fans like me may doubt that proclamation as marketing strategy to draw more interest. Fans will surely want to see him fight for the last time.

Pacquiao, having just dominated David Diaz after moving up in weight , will add more jewel to his illustrious boxing career by fighting De La Hoya. Not to mention, the lucrative paycheck it would add to his coffers.

I thank God that the Philippines have a son like Pacquiao who can bring honor to his country. If the camp of De La Hoya really conceded to the desire of Pacquiao's camp, then Manny has really gone to a place no boxer or sports person I know or read of has gone before.

I have doubts if Manny can pull-off a win but I just hope and pray he would deliver a performance that can make us, Filipinos, be more prouder of him.

Go, Manny!