By Mark Vester
According to Top Rank's official facebook page, WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao will defend his title against former IBF champion Joshua Clottey on March 13. The venue was not discussed or the location but Top Rank's Bob Arum wanted to stage Pacquiao's next fight in Las Vegas in either the MGM Grand or the Thomas & Mack Center.
Clottey, also promoted by Top Rank, will replace Floyd Mayweather Jr. Pacquiao will have a very big advantage in speed. Clottey has a good defense and an iron chin. He lacks speed and at times he gives away rounds by not being active enough. He was close to beating Miguel Cotto last year in New York. He allowed Cotto to steal some of the late rounds and win a close decision to earn a shot at Pacquiao. The shot at Pacquiao is a huge way to start the year for Clottey. In 2009 he saw two scheduled fights, with Shane Mosley and Carlos Quintana, fall apart for reasons beyond his control.
Send News Tips and Comments To Mark Vester @ boxingvester@gmail.com