Finkel unfazed by Erik’s condition

LAS VEGAS — Shelly Finkel admitted yesterday he was surprised Erik Morales tipped the scales at 129 pounds on his first attempt to make the superfeatherweight limit at the weigh-in for his 12-round fight against Manny Pacquiao at the Thomas and Mack Center this morning (Manila time) here.

It was Finkel who insisted on clauses in the fight contract where Morales, widely known to have outgrown the 130-pound division, would pay Pacquiao a $500,000 penalty if he weighed 131 and $1 Million if he weighed 132. Additionally, Pacquiao could walk away with $1 Million and not fight Morales if he weighed more than 132.

Finkel said he knew Morales would do everything within his power not to be disgraced at the scales. Morales hired seven conditioning experts from the Velocity Sports Performance Center in Los Angeles to work on a scientific weight reduction program for two months before reporting for training camp at the high-altitude Otomi Mountains in Mexico last September.

"I thought he would make 130 flat," said Finkel. "To tell you the truth, I’m surprised he made 129. But that only goes to show you how serious he is in trying to be in the best shape of his career for Manny."

Finkel said he expects Morales to go all out for an early knockout while his strength is at full tilt but whatever he does in the ring, it won’t make a difference.

"Since Manny started training at the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles, he’s been conscientiously working hard," said Finkel. "I would fly over from New York every week and spend several days with him. I can’t see how Morales can beat Manny at his condition. I haven’t seen Manny in better shape."

Finkel said whether Morales slugs it out or employs a hit-and-run strategy, the outcome will be the same.

"Manny will knock him out," said Finkel with conviction.

Finkel’s contract to manage Pacquiao expires on Jan. 31 next year but he hopes to continue the relationship.

"Manny knows I care for him," said Finkel. "I’ve done what I can to protect his interests from Day 1."

Finkel said he hopes to visit Manila, possibly with his wife Beth, in December if Pacquiao decides to retain his services.

A Pacquiao insider said there is no more sincere and trustworthy manager than Finkel in the sleazy boxing business.

"Manny needs someone like Finkel to negotiate in his behalf with international promoters," said the insider. "Finkel’s heart is with Manny. I understand he’s agreeable to stay on as manager even without a specific consideration, that everything will be up to Manny. You can’t find anyone who’s willing to do that among American managers."

Finkel said he is proud of the fact that in over 20 years as a boxing manager, none of his fighters was ever over the limit at a weigh-in.