David Diaz, Edwin Valero, Ricky Hatton (?) to attend Pacquiao birthday in Philippines

XaduBoxer · 12-12-2008 05:43 AM

Diaz, Valero coming to join Pacquiao bash

link: David Diaz, Edwin Valero, Ricky Hatton (?) to attend Pacquiao birthday in Philippines

GUESS who’s coming for Manny Pacquiao’s 30th birthday celebration in his hometown of General Santos City on Dec. 17?

They are former World Boxing Council lightweight champion David Diaz, who was hammered into submission in nine rounds by Pacquiao to win the title last June 28, and undefeated Edwin Valero, who was one of Oscar de la Hoya’s sparring partners for the Pacman fight last weekend in Las Vegas.
Also flying in from the US are Top Rank promoter Bob Arum and trainer Freddie Roach.

Valero revealed on the eve of the “Dream Match” that he had given De la Hoya a black eye in sparring. He added the Golden Boy did not train that hard and predicted he would be beaten by Pacquiao.

In an overseas telephone conversation with www.insidesports.ph, Standard Today and Viva Sports from his home in Chicago, Diaz said he will arrive in Manila on Dec. 16 at the invitation of Pacquiao.

Meanwhile, President Arroyo will also attend the boxing icon’s birthday bash.

Also attending the party will be Secretary Lito Atienza, another longtime Pacquiao supporter and Deputy National Security Adviser and former Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson.

Physical therapist Jeff de Guzman, who used to be part of Team Pacquiao, confirmed in an overseas telephone conversation from Ohio that he would arrive with Diaz and Valero, who at one time called out Pacquiao.

De Guzman revealed there was a possibility that Ricky Hatton may also show up for the grand celebration. He said Hatton, who is likely to be next in line for Pacquiao, would let him know by tomorrow whether he could make the trip.