Morales won’t predict on Pacquiao bout

By Abac Cordero
The Philippine Star 03/31/2007

There’s no prediction coming from Erik Morales regarding the Manny Pacquiao-Jorge Solis fight on April 14 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. "No prediction.

No prediction," Morales, who’s in the country for a quick promotional tour for San Miguel Beer, told scribes in a 30-minute interview at the 25th floor conference room of the Diamond Hotel.

Morales has known the undefeated Solis for some time. In fact, they’ve sparred a few times, including a few rounds as Morales prepared for his third match with Pacquiao last November.

"Solis is a good fighter. He’s strong. But Manny is hard and strong, too. Manny has more experience in big fights. But he has to put one hundred percent against Solis," added Morales.

Asked more about Solis, Morales had a hard time saying: "But Solis gives up easily. He has never lost (in 32 fights), but there’s only one problem – his fighting spirit."

After talking about the coming Pacquiao fight, Morales said he can’t wait to throw his next punch as he aired his confidence for a June 16 showdown with WBC lightweight champion David Diaz.

"That’s the only thing I have – confidence," Morales.

Morales, who had held the titles in the 122-, 126- and 130-pound divisions, will try to become the first Mexican to win titles in four different divisions when he faces the 135-pound Diaz on June 16.

The venue of the fight, Morales said, is still being finalized. It could be in Chicago, Las Vegas or Texas. The only thing certain, he added, is that the fight between the two Top Rank boxers will push through.

Morales, 30, said he’s very comfortable at 135 pounds, although he looked much, much heavier than that during the interview. He came in casual clothes, accompanied by two Mexican friends.

"I really like the weight. Everything is fine. I think I can stay long in this division. Some people say Erik Morales has nothing left in him. I don’t think so," said the newest SMB endorser.

"I feel very strong. I like my stamina. But how many people think I can win a fourth title? Only myself. But I know I can do it. I will not fight if I can’t put up a good fight.

"I’m not doing this fight for the money. I already have the money. I can just go home. I have businesses. This is not for the money. This is for my honor. This is for prestige," he added.

Morales laughed when asked about the possibility of a fourth fight with Manny Pacquiao who might just end up campaigning in the lightweight division in a year or two.