Former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis Crisologo “Chavit” Singson has advised former senator and retired boxer Manny Pacquiao to settle his lawsuit with the Paradigm Sports Management first before accepting any tune-up fight offer.
Singson, 81, believes it is high time that the 43-year-old Pacquiao reached out to people affected by his decision not to fight under the PSM brand despite both camps’ signed agreement.
“I think he really needs to fix his problem with Paradigm Sports Management first before accepting any tuneup fights,” Singson said. “I don’t have any knowledge about the lawsuit, but it’s better for Manny to settle it [pending court case] first than not.”
Pacquiao was sued by PSM CEO Audie Attar before the Superior Court of California for alleged breach of contract last year. PSM is seeking to recover the $3.3 million it claims it paid Pacquiao in advance for a fight PSM eyed for the boxer.
The court case remains ongoing in California.
“He really needs to settle all those problems — not only the court case but also his other concerns to other people — so that he can get a good tune-up fight,” Singson added. “If there’s no hindrance, that would be nice.”
Pacquiao’s ex-confidante Jayke Joson shared the same sentiment, adding that it is only right for the future boxing Hall of Famer to resolve all his problems first before mulling any possible fights.
“Manong Chavit knows the ins and outs of life. He’s been in many struggles and won all the fights he encountered. I agree with him that Manny should settle his issue with Paradigm first before entertaining any offers,” Joson said.
Singson had earlier introduced a possible tough tune-up opponent for the welterweight warrior Pacquiao once his legal battles are settled.
Retired 6’4” heavyweight and mixed martial artist Bob Sapp, 48, and Singson paid Pacquiao a visit recently, but no formal agreement was made.
“This fight will earn him millions of money if it happens. But again, he needs to settle his court case first in the US,” Singson said.
Singson also criticized Pacquiao’s upcoming bout against South Korean YouTuber DK Yoo set sometime in December in Seoul, South Korea.
“That’s nothing, he will not earn big money there because that’s not a champion and not popular,” Singson said. “Bob [Sapp] is definitely the fight Manny needs or a super fight with famous MMA UFC fighter Connor McGregor.”