LAS VEGAS ? Since the formal arrival ceremonies are still scheduled on June 24, Team Pacquiao arrived here at around 8:30 in the evening June 23 without any hoopla and grandiosity commonly seen in the parade and arrival of stars in big occasions.
The 14-vehicle convoy left at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California at about 3:30 in the afternoon after the final press conference to announce the World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight duel between champion David Diaz and challenger Manny Pacquiao.
Upon his arrival at The Hotel at Mandalay Bay, Pacquiao and his wife Jinky were escorted by fight agent Michael Koncz and several members of Team Pacquiao. The entourage proceeded inside Room 60904, one of the most expensive suites in the 43 stories, 1,117 bedroom suites hotel adjacent to the towering Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.
A dinner for the entourage was held inside the room. At around past 10 in the evening Pacquiao?s assistant Rob Peters requested the small crowd to disperse and proceed to their assigned rooms to give privacy to the boxing icon who wore a Boston Celtics cap all the way from California to Nevada.
Official arrival ceremonies will be held at the main hotel entrance to Mandalay Bay?11 a.m. for Diaz and 11:30 a.m. for Pacquiao who is expected to be accompanied by Top Rank big boss Bob Arum.
Pacquiao refused to talk about the fight during the dinner but made some remarks and observation on why the Los Angeles Lakers was clobbered by Boston Celtics in the recent NBA finals.
Those who arrived together with Pacquiao were Texas-based physician Allan Recto, promoter and confidante Rex (Wakee) Salud, patron and wedding godfather Rey Gollingan, promoter Johnny Elorde, among other prominent figures in the Team Pacquiao.
Coach Freddie Roach arrived few hours later. At 11 pm. Pacquiao?s room was off limit to particulars.
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