We're just concerned for Pacquiao's safety - Buhain

MANILA, Philippines – Games and Amusements Board (GAB) chairman Eric Buhain said Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez is only concerned about Manny Pacquiao's safety in his scheduled match against Oscar de la Hoya in December. Rodriguez is requesting GAB to temporarily suspend Pacquiao's boxing license, adding that the Filipino boxing icon is “clearly mismatched" against de la Hoya. “Congressman Rufus is only thinking of Manny's safety that's all. The GAB and the House of Representatives want Manny to be more cautious in this fight," said Buhain. He added that the fight between Pacquiao, the world’s top pound-for-pound boxer, and de la Hoya will push through on December 6. Buhain said GAB had written Pacquiao to express its concern. “The board asked Manny to update us on his preparation on a weekly basis to appease all those who are supporting Manny." Buhain said GAB feels it would be an added pressure on Pacquiao's part if talks about suspending or canceling the fight would continue. “It might affect [Pacquiao's] preparations for the fight." Buhain, in a budget hearing at the House of Representatives, admitted that GAB has passed a resolution last July expressing their objection to the Pacquiao-de la Hoya match. The de la Hoya–Pacquiao fight is a clear mismatch even if the camps of the both boxers had agreed on weigh limit at 147lbs. Besides the weight issue, there’s also the height difference, with de la Hoya four inches taller than Pacquiao, and a reach difference, with the Mexican-American having an advantage of five inches. Rodriguez is asking Buhain to inform the Nevada Commission that the Philippine government isn’t sanctioning the Pacquiao–Dela Hoya fight. According to some reports, Pacquiao might earn $15 million to $20 million in this match. – GMANews.TV