By Ronnie Nathanielsz
WBC International super featherweight champion and Filipino ring idol Manny Pacquiao worked out at the famed ALA Gym of respected boxing patron Tony Aldeguer in Cebu City yesterday.
Pacquiao who is only just beginning to prepare for his January 21 rematch with Erik "El Terrible" Morales looked good according to boxing promoter/manager Sammy Gello-ani and well known US boxing man Michael Koncz who helped clinch fights in America for Pacquiao’s younger brother Bobby Pacquiao, Rey "Boom Boom" Bautista and Diosdado Gabi.
Pacquiao, in a long distance telephone conversation with Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today said it was considered a light workout although he skipped rope, punched the heavy bag, worked on the speed ball and also on the punch mitts.
Pacquiao said he would be in Manila for the opening ceremonies of the 23rd Southeast Asian Games and was scheduled to leave for the US on December 3 to step up preparations at the Wild Card Gym of 2003 "Trainer of the Year" Freddie Roach who, like Pacquiao, is eager to avenge that defeat.
Pacquiao said he was "feeling good" and was eagerly looking forward to the return bout with Morales which is expected to be a blockbuster following their epic encounter last March 19 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Pacquiao drew a lot of attention at the ALA Gym from other young fighters training in the sprawling facility as well as fans. He was accompanied by close associate Rex "Wakee" Salud.
