By Ronnie Nathanielsz
ERIK “El Terrible” Morales looked good in 12 rounds of sparring in the refreshing high altitude Otomi training site and his handlers appeared very pleased, saying the Mexican passed the test without any problems.
A report by Mexican boxing writer Ernesto Castellanos in the newspaper ESTO said the three-time world champion treated the sparring session against three separate opponents like a regular fight.
The report also suggested he would have to be in top condition to face Filipino ring idol Manny Pacquiao in their Grand Finale rubber match at the Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas on Nov. 18.
The sparring yesterday was designed to prove that Morales’ preparation had gone well and that he was already in great form.
Morales went four rounds with Betulio Gutierrez III before taking on Wary Beltran Jr. and then ended up going four rounds with an extremely fast amateur, who moved with what was described as great rhythm.
Morales’ father Jose Morales, who returned to supervise his son’s training for the crucial third encounter with Pacquiao, was satisfied with his performance and said the weight reduction program would ensure that he makes the 130-lb limit for the fight.
But World Boxing Council founding secretary-general Rudy Salud insisted that while Morales may well make the 130-lblimit and “not lose his stamina, he will lose his power or strength. The eminent lawyer said even if both fighters [Pacquiao and Morales] were in top shape, Pacquiao was the better fighter overall so this should be, barring any accidents, a breeze for Manny.” Ronnie Nathanielsz
