LAS VEGAS ? The Big J, also known as Robert Jaworski, dropped by at the Wild Card Gym Monday to give Manny Pacquiao the extra push.
With no hesitation, the Big J, probably the only one who can match or at least come close to Pacquiao?s popularity as a Filipino athlete, issued a pre-fight forecast.
?I would say that it?s Manny in seven. It?s seven for me,? said the Big J who donned the famous No. 7 jersey in a basketball career that?s hard to match.
?But,? he continued, ?there is this possibility that it will go the distance of 12 rounds. If that happens, I should say that?s it?s going to be controversial.?
The Big J, also a former senator, had a brief, lively conversation with Pacquiao?s trainer Freddie Roach, and they talked about basketball.
?Yes, I did play with some of the greatest American players, too,? the Big J told the famous trainer who admitted being a Celtics fan.
The Big J, in a pin-striped shirt, blue pants and leather shoes, was approached by Pacquiao as he wrapped up training, and they shared a table in a Thai restaurant.
The Big J was also introduced to Buboy Fernandez and was immediately informed that it was the birthday of Pacquiao?s Filipino trainer.
The Big J was an instant hit the moment he stepped into the gym as US-based Filipinos lined up before him for some souvenir photos and a little chit-chat.
The Big J saw Pacquiao doing his abdominal exercises. He was asked to come near the boxer, but he declined, saying ?let?s not bother him.?
The Big J, in his sixties, cracked a few jokes here and there, and said he might just try boxing.
?Pero hindi na din. Tama na ang basketball sa akin. For me it?s still the sport. It?s poetry in motion,? he said.
