By Ryan Songalia
It seems that as soon as one potential Manny Pacquiao opponent is close to being solidified, a problem arises and a new opponent moves to the forefront. After Pacquiao knocked out David Diaz for his WBC lightweight belt last month, promoter Bob Arum began telling the media that undefeated WBA 130 pound titlist Edwin Valero was the frontrunner to land on Pacquiao's November 15 date.
Now that licensing issues with Valero have arisen, Humberto Soto now appears to be the man of the hour. Freddie Roach, trainer of the Filipino star, is not at all concerned about the instability so far in securing an opponent.
"We still have plenty of time," Roach told BoxingScene.com, taking comfort in having four months to settle the issue. "If Valero is only licensed in Texas right now, then Soto becomes the number one guy. There are a lot of good fights out there that we might take with the Australian boy [Michael] Katsidis, but they're all fighting in September. Valero can't get licensed in Nevada, Soto can."
Roach says that he would prefer Pacquiao fight Valero, adding that he believes Humberto Soto is the more dangerous task.
"I'd rather have Valero, but whatever makes sense business-wise. He's having trouble getting a license in America, which poses a bit of a problem.
"Soto got disqualified in his last fight, those things happen in boxing. He's motivated and a good, solid fighter. He beat Bobby Pacquiao. Valero is a good puncher but he's never been in a tough fight."
When asked who he thought would be able to take Pacquiao's punches, Roach said he wasn't sure.
"You know Valero is undefeated, so it's hard to judge how well he will take punches. I'd be willing to risk it though."
The WBC recently put a July 28 deadline for Pacquiao to either defend the 130 pound crown which he also holds against Humberto Soto, or vacate the title. ABS-CBN reports that Pacquiao will relinquish that belt and campaign full-time as a lightweight.
Roach reiterated plans to move up to 140 pounds to clash with England's Ricky Hatton next year.
"I've always liked Ricky Hatton. I think he's a good opponent for Pacquiao, not just because of Pacquiao's performance with Diaz. Manny wants to fight at 140 pounds and try that weight division. It's a natural fight. Hopefully he beats Paul Malignaggi and then we'll get together."
But could Pacquiao's audacious jumps in weight catch up with him?
"It could be a problem. I'm not a psychic, I could be wrong. I still think he could handle Ricky Hatton at 140."
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