Manny Pacquiao fans ... RELAX!
The eight-division boxing champion arrived in Las Vegas, Nevada, late last night ahead of his fight against undefeated Welterweight champion Floyd Mayweather this weekend (Sat., May 2, 2015). And rather than endure the "hoopla" at the "Grand Arrival Show" alongside "Money" at MGM Grand this evening, "Pac Man" opted for a much more subdued celebration next door at Mandalay Bay, hosting a crowd of about 1,500 adoring fans earlier in the morning.
His long-time trainer, Freddie Roach, as well as promoter Bob Arum, advisor Michael Koncz, assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez and "Pacman" -- Pacquiao's beloved Jack Russell Terrier and team mascot -- joined him on the dais.
"Good morning everybody! Are you excited? Don't get nervous for Saturday -- I am the one who has to fight in the ring," Pacquiao said. "So, relax, take it easy! I am so excited for Saturday. Thank you for your support and prayers.
"I love you guys," he continued. "I am very excited. The confidence is there -- 100 percent!"
After he addressed the crowd, Pacquiao sat with the throng of media members in town to cover the event, answering various questions about his legacy, his health and what a win over Mayweather would mean to him personally, among other issues.
Pacquiao will cross paths with Mayweather for the first time during fight week tomorrow at the final pre-fight press conference and then again on Friday at the official weigh-in before it's time to throwdown Saturday night.
Can hardly wait.
For more on "Mayweather vs. Pacquiao" fight, including the latest updates click here. SB Nation also has a comprehensive "Pacquiao vs. Mayweather" news stream right here. And to check out a "Mayweather-Pacquiao" full fight video preview click here.
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