MANILA, Philippines – Expect fireworks on Wednesday when the PBA Philippine Cup title series begins between defending champion Talk ‘N Text and Rain or Shine.

No it’s not a boxing match, but PBA commissioner Chito Salud expects the best-of-seven series to become close to one.

“No touch fouls. The refs will call what is obvious and clear contact. This doesn’t permit unnecessary roughness,” Salud said in the league website.

Both teams survived tough wars against separate foes.

Rain or Shine hacked out a semifinals series victory against San Mig Coffee in six games, while Talk ‘N Text outplayed a tenacious Alaska in the other semis match-up.

The physicality is expected to continue in the finals, which is why Salud said the referees themselves will be put to test.

“Officiating is not perfect as it is over time and time immemorial. But the refs will be unbiased and fair,” he said.

Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao said he expects a battle between two good teams.

Guiao said his boys will play rough if that's what it takes to win the crown.

“It’s going to be a battle and I’m not going to be nice to everyone,” he said. “We will play as physical as long as the referees will allow. Referees will decide kung tama na ba ‘yung physicality.”

Guiao has already won six titles with three different teams, but despite the laurels he has won he has yet to get an all-Filipino crown.

“We don’t want to be popular. We’re just happy to be a team known for its good basketball,” he said.

For his part, Talk ‘N Text coach Norman Black said they are prepared for the long haul -- but their main goal if to win four games.

“I don’t care how the series goes. All we want is to win four games. If it goes four games, it goes four games. If it goes seven, it goes seven,” the 10-time PBA champion coach said.

And with the Painters at the other side of the court, Black admitted that they will have a rough sailing ahead.

“It’s going to be difficult because they’re very physical and they do things that we also love to do. In the end, someone has to give,” he said.