by Jojo Fugaban: Manny Pacquiao (56-5-2, 38 KO’s) had won convincing 12 round unanimous decision last Saturday night against defending WBO world champion Timothy Bradley (31-1, 12 KO’s) at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. However, full 3 minutes of aggression from Pacquiao had never come. Though judges had scored a unanimous decision (116-112, 116-112 and 118-110) favoring the Pacman. Dominance throughout the fight was not seen, as Pacquiao was as at some point being cautious of being caught by a big lucky punch from Bradley.
Being cautious though is one factor but Bradley should be given the accolades as the young and talented Bradley could not be denied of his prowess of being a counter puncher and having observed to be a solid and well- conditioned coming into the fight. However, the speed and foot work for Pacman has made a huge difference in this fight. Making different angles needed for a counter punching machine to mechanically malfunction throughout the fight. Bradley was a threat all fight long. As he caught Pacquiao with right straight punches to make him back pedal and think twice if he can put the onslaught he usually and easily delivers. Pacman showed hesitancy all throughout the fight but at the same time is willing to engage. It seems like he being haunted by the one punch that made him sleep from the hands of his old nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez.
As I watch the fight progresses, it brings back moments from Marquez fight saying I may need another fight to gauge this. However, speed and footwork had made Pacquiao including aggression puts him on a better spot if not convincing. Evidently, Pacquiao no longer possesses the aggression he was once years ago but firmly deserves that he is still a force to reckon with. A threat to Mayweather’s unblemished record, a huge threat to those who wants to be on the upper echelons and a deserving a couple more years to be in the boxing ring.
As they say, “someone will always have his match” – For Pacman, Bradley was a threat, Youth and talent never was denied as Pacman tried his best to show his stuff even if we say that’s all he has left is his pride and heart. Pride and heart are all that’s left of Pacman but he’s willing to fight even though he only have those as he still continues to fight for his countrymen, a selfless act even his name is on the line if he loses. He always utters “I’m just doing my job” and leaves the rest to his promoter – Arum chose not to reply about this statement by Pacman.
Journey continues he says, and his countrymen will always be behind him in win or defeat as he had cemented his name under all time greats in boxing. He maybe at some point be described as not on Floyd Mayweather’s caliber, and perhaps he can easily be whipped by Floyd. The only proof is if they had fought. IF not, then it is forever Floyd’s nightmare.
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