September 23, 2005
TOKYO, JAPAN-Sensational Filipino southpaw Manny gPacmanh Pacquiao has arrived in Tokyo, Japan, this afternoon on Friday along with his business partner Rex Wakee Salud, whose boxer Eriberto Gejon will have a shot at the WBA 105-pound belt against Japanese defending champ Yutaka Niida on a twinbill promoted by Akihiko Hondafs Teiken Promotions in Yokohama on this coming Sunday. The Filipino hero reportedly plans a project to establish Pacquiao Sports Complex in his native place General Santos City with Wakee Saludfs guidance. Pacquiao was supposed to meet his grudge rival Erik Morales again here in Japan, as El Terrible planned to accompany his younger brother Diego Morales who was scheduled to have a mandatory crack at Hozumi Hasegawafs WBC bantam belt on the same bill. Erik, however, cancelled his coming due to Diegofs bad gash suffered in his final sparring session prior to his departure for Japan. Another Mexican Gerardo Martinez became a late substitute for Erikfs brother. Pacquiao missed Morales, but they will face in person in their highly anticipated rematch on January 21.
(9-23-05)