The build-up to the epic welterweight showdown between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao burst into life on Tuesday when the Filipino staged a fans' rally at the Mandalay Bay.
A crowd of around 1,500 turned out to watch Pacquiao speak publicly for the first time as the countdown to the richest fight in history - worth a staggering $330million - continues.
A noisy and colourful warm-up ceremony complete with a Filipino dancing band, singers and DJ filled the time until his appearance on stage 44 minutes late with trainer Freddie Roach and promoter Bob Arum in attendance.
"I'm feeling excited and confident. Are you nervous? Don't worry, I'm the one who will be in the ring," Pacquiao said.
"I want to win. That's my goal."
The event opened a busy day in Las Vegas with attention then turning to the fight hotel, the MGM Grand, where Mayweather makes his grand arrival.
