Brisbane close to wrapping up deal

Brisbane is putting the finishing touches on the immediate rematch starring Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Horn set for Nov. 12 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

The major players had met over lunch Saturday and all signs point to a deal for Horn to defend the World Boxing Organization welterweight crown.

Present during the meet were high-ranking Queensland official Kate Jones, Duco Promotions head Dean Lonergan and Horn, who upset Pacquiao via a unanimous decision last July 2.

Top Rank chief Bob Arum had told the Bulletin last week that the Nov. 12 date is perfect since it falls during Pacquiao's break in the Senate, allowing the Filipino legend to train for at least a month without having to report for work.

In anticipation of a second meeting with the eight-division champion, the 29-year-old Horn has returned to the gym.

Even though Pacquiao will be the challenger, Arum has made it clear that his fighter would still remain at the A-side in the revenue sharing.

Horn won by scores if 117-111 and 115-113 (twice), an outcome that was met with criticisms, the first time they squared off before more than 51,000 spectators.

Suncorp Stadium was earlier ruled out as venue since the weather can be harsh and unpredictable during the months of November and December.

But a canopy can be installed to protect the fighters and the ringside section from the elements and some are also raising the possibility of installing a makeshift air-conditioning unit as well.

Apart from Brisbane, other cities bidding to stage the fight are Sydney in New South Wales, Melbourne in Victoria and Gold Coast, also in Queensland.