8 places to catch the Pacquiao-Matthysse fight

For only the second time in five years, the Philippines’ eight-division world champion Senator Manny Pacquiao will fight in the same timezone as his kababayans, when he takes on Argentinian and World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight champion Lucas Matthysse on July 15 at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The 39-year old PacMan, (59-7-2 win-loss-draw record), who is coming off a controversial, 12-round loss against Australian Jeff Horn in Brisbane a year ago, is fighting against a slightly younger opponent in the 35-year old Matthysse (39-4-1).

Aside from coming in as the challenger, it's interesting to note the absence of Pacquiao’s long-time trainer Freddie Roach and the non-participation of Top Rank and its CEO Bob Arum as one of the fight promoters.

In fact, the Pambansang Kamao is taking on the additional role of match arranger via his MP Promotions.

As always, ardent fans and loyal supporters will troop to various venues to dine and drink while watching the pride of General Santos City trade punches with the reigning Argentinian champion.

Aside from coverage of major TV networks, including GMA, below are some venues you can catch out on the morning of July 15. 

Sports fans know how thrilling catch a match (and a game) live with a crowd — moreso with delicious promos to boot.

1. Brotzeit Philippines

German Bier (Beer) bar and restaurant Brotzeit Philippines will open its doors at 9AM at its Shangri-La Plaza branch. For P900, patrons can watch the fight live and commercial free. Price of admission also includes food (Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict with Rösti Potatoes, Farmer’s Ham and Poached Eggs with Rösti Potatoes, Bacon and Eggs, or German Sausages) and a drink (coffee, fruit juice, or soda). P900. Streetscape, Shangri-La Plaza, Mandaluyong City. Facebook. +632 6311489

2. Buffalo Wild Wings

If you prefer munching on chicken wings instead, Buffalo Wild Wings will also screen the Pacquiao-Matthysse fight live and commercial-free inside all five locations. For a P500-consumable arrangement, fans will be spoiled not only on B-Dubs’ award-winning Buffalo, New York-style wings but also on the 35+ flat screen TVs in every location. P500. Website. Facebook. +632 6327489

3. Kia Theatre

The largest option on this list, at least in terms of seating capacity is the Kia Theater in Araneta Center, Cubao. With 2,385 seats, watching the Pac-Man trade leather with Matthysse in this ultra-modern theater equipped with the latest audio, visual, and lighting technologies will make the experience seem like you are inside the Axiata Arena to witness the fight live. Tickets start at P300. Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City. Ticketnet. +632 9115555.

4. Snaps Sports Bar

Sofitel's Snaps Sports Bar, with its sleek, modern interiors, large LCD screens, and those comfortable leather chairs, may be the swankiest place to catch the fight. Menu items include burgers, pizzas and a variety of gourmet comfort food while an array of wines and spirits are available to accompany each bite. Starts P750 (of which P450 is consumable). Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila. Reserve. +632 5515555 loc. 1544 or 1549.

5. Shakey’s Pizza

Easily the most popular, accessible and convenient option is to go to any of the 60 select branches of Shakey’s Pizza before July 15 to reserve slots for Sunday’s fight. For a consumable P500-fee, patrons can watch the fight inside the branches’ pay-per-view area and munch on their delicious signature thin-crust pizzas, and chicken and mojos. P500 Facebook

6. Tiendesitas

As part of their Pinoy Pride campaign this month, Tiendesitas in Ortigas Center will have a live screening of the boxing match at the Food Village. You might want to get there on time at 9am because the screening is free of charge. 2/F, Building 2, Tiendesitas, Ortigas Avenue corner C-5. 

7. Raphael's Sports Cafe

Cebu residents, you might have the best deal yet: sports bar Raphael's is screening the fight live for free. So gather the troops, head on down to SM Seaside City, and munch on Raphael's signature ribs, or country fried chicken, or tex-mex platter, and so it goes! 3/F Mountain Wing of SM Seaside City. Facebook. +032 254 0700

8. Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort

Imagine watching the fight right on the beach. Well, imagine no more: Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort in the awesome Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte  will be screening the fight on Sunday. All you have to do is take a 7-minute boat ride, pay the entrance fee, and enjoy the fight in paradise! P220. Website. +082 2330251

— LA, GMA News