Conspiracy theories abound after Bradley – Pacquaio fiasco

By Boxing News - 06/22/2012 - Comments

Image: Conspiracy theories abound after Bradley - Pacquaio fiascoBy John F. McKenna (McJack): Predictably whenever there is a bad decision in major fight in boxing skepticism arises as to the legitimacy of the scoring. The firestorm which erupted after former World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao (54-4-2, 50 KO’s) lost his title belt to new WBO welterweight champion Timothy Bradley (29-0-1 NC, 12 KO’s) on June 9 shows no sign of abating.

Soto vs. MatthysseIt doesn’t help that the outrageous decision depriving “Pacman” of his welterweight championship happened in “Sin City”, Las Vegas which is a Mecca for millions of gamblers, not all of whom are boxing fans. The fact is that Pacquiao is seen by many boxing insiders as a fighter in decline, who is promoted by Top Rank CEO Bob Arum. is also promoted by Arum. Bradley although clearly not as talented as “Pacman” at 28 is just coming into his prime, is always in great condition and should be around for years to come.

After the verdict was announced awarding the fight to Bradley, “Uncle” Bob appeared to be as shocked as anyone else. His shock and outrage appeared genuine, but it did little to alleviate the suspicions of the millions of boxing fans who feel that Pacquiao was the victim of a sinister plot to take away his title.

The decision made shortly after the fight to have WBO officials review the fight also did little to temper the anger of the fans, especially when it was pointed out in advance that the decision would not be reversed. The millions of boxing fans who watched the fight know what they saw. They did not need the WBO to tell them that Bradley was thoroughly whipped.

As far as Bradley sticking to his story that he thought he won the fight and making comments that Pacquiao will be easy for him to beat next time I am reminded of an admonition my father passed on to me as a youth. He said: “Never pass up the opportunity to keep your mouth shut when you are in the process of making a fool out of yourself.”

Bradley should be quiet. He lost and boxing fans would think far more of him if he just kept his mouth shut.



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