DAVIN O'DWYERrounds up the latest boxing, rugby and soccer deals
Boxing
Many boxers are famous, and some are infamous, but Ricky Hatton exists in a category of his own, a cult figure with arguably the most loyal following in the sport. Many of his fans are likely to make the pilgrimage to Las Vegas to see him fight Filipino Manny Pacquiao on May 2nd. The fight has been billed as the Battle of East and West (boxing promoters never shy from hyperbole); at stake is the IBO light welterweight title. American Sky (068-56868, www.americansky.ie) is offering four-night packages from €1,439 per person, including flights on April 30th from Dublin, accommodation and entry tickets to the bout at the MGM Grand.
Rugby
Leinster travel to London to take on Harlequins in the Heineken Cup quarter- final on Sunday, April 12th. Killester Travel (www.killestertravel.com, 01-8336935) is offering two reduced- price packages, a one-night trip and a day return. The overnight package includes match ticket, flights, airport and match transfers, and BB accommodation at the four-star Hilton Hotel Holland Park Avenue, for €299 per person sharing, down from €320. The day-return includes match ticket, Aer Lingus flights and airport transfers, for €199 per person sharing, down from €275. Both deals are subject to €65 tax.
Soccer
After this week’s action in northwest England, the Champions League action moves to London the following week. Chelsea host Liverpool on Tuesday, April 14th, while Arsenal host Villarreal the following day. Dawson Travel (www.dawson- travel.com, 01-6618900) has hotel and match-ticket packages for both games, costing €499 per person for the Chelsea vs Liverpool clash, and €299 for the Arsenal game – less exciting, perhaps, but easier on the eye.