MANILA, Philippines - IBF junior bantamweight champion McJoe Arroyo and mandatory challenger Jerwin Ancajas met with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao at his office at the Philippine Senate on Wednesday, August 31.
Arroyo (17-0, 8 knockouts) of Fajardo, Puerto Rico was joined by promoter Peter Rivera of PR Best Boxing and two coaches while Ancajas (24-1-1, 16 KOs) of Panabo City, Davao del Norte, Philippines was accompanied by trainer/manager Joven Jimenez and assistant Drian Francisco. The two will meet in the 12-round main event on Saturday, September 3 at Philippine Navy Gym in Taguig City, Philippines. The card will be promoted by Manny Pacquiao's MP Promotions.
(READ: Boxer Jerwin Ancajas is more than just a 'pretty' face)
Arroyo, 30, hasn't fought since July of 2015 when he outpointed Filipino Arthur Villanueva to win the vacant title while Ancajas, 23, has also been inactive since last year.
Arroyo and Ancajas were briefly recognized on the Senate floor before returning leaving to their hotel. Both fighters shared a table for lunch and spoke indirectly about having two children each (all boys for Ancajas and all girls for Arroyo). Both appeared comfortable with regards to making the junior bantamweight limit of 115 pounds as they ate rice and fish.
Their weigh-in is set for 10 am at the Navy Gym with both fighters set to hold a press conference afterwards. The fights start at 4 pm on Saturday. Admission is free to the public.
Ancajas is hoping to join WBO bantamweight champ Marlon Tapales and IBF flyweight champ Johnriel Casimero as the third Filipino to win a world title this year. – Rappler.com