There have been a lot of rumors and scrutinizing words passed through the media recently concerning the future of arguably the top fighter in the sport and the biggest draw in boxing, Manny Pacquiao.
Rumors of his future and longevity have been published by many websites and blogs; comments and articles claiming that the Pac Man’s heart does not reside within the sport of boxing any further.
Questions and concerns from his fans and detractors have yet to be confirmed or denied by those closest to him, so we will review what we do know about the fighter more affectionately known as “Manila Ice”.
On June 9th, Manny Pacquiao will face one of his toughest tests to date, “The Desert Storm” Tim Bradley at MGM Grand in Las Vegas, NV.
Although Bradley is an undefeated fighter and a proven warrior, most ring experts agree that Bradley has never fought anyone at Pacquiao’s level prior to this big match-up. The biggest names on his current fight resume are Kendall “Rated R” Holt, Devon Alexander, Lamont Peterson, and Nate Campbell.
Although those four fighters are former champions and impressive conquests, could any of these style match-ups be used to gauge a potential performance against the speedy southpaw from General Santos?
Not really. Even though most insiders believe that Bradley will without a doubt be a very formidable opponent for Manny Pacquiao, most fight scribes and analysts believe Manny will be too fast, too aggressive, and just too good if we see “Manny being Manny” on June 9th.
But, will Manny Pacquiao be 100% focused on his opponent throughout that fateful day?
Will all of Pacquiao’s extracurricular activities be a detriment to Pacquiao’s performance against a dangerous and undefeated fighter like Tim Bradley?
Pictured: Joshua Clottey, left, absorbs punishment from Manny Pacquiao in 2010 Courtesy: Top Rank Boxing/Chris Farina
All indicators seemingly point to a resounding no. Head trainer and mentor Freddie Roach has stated in many interviews leading into previous bouts that Manny Pacquiao seems to miraculously perform and react more favorably if there is a certain level of “chaos” surrounding him.
Where most people would view Manny’s lifestyle and level of activity as a distraction leading into a championship stint in the squared circle, the 33 year old pugilist has always seemed to embrace the perceived pandemonium that surrounds him.
Governing, acting, singing, and fighting… Manny Pacquiao does it all, and has been doing it all for quite some time.
Let’s take a look at what Timothy Bradley will truly be up against on June 9th:
Born in Kibawe, Bukidnon, Philippines, the 5’6 ?” southpaw fighter with dynamite in both fists, Manny Pacquiao has gradually improved his skills and power over the last several years under the tutelage of trainer Freddie Roach and conditioning expert Alex Ariza to become the number one pound for pound fighter in the sport today.
The all-time great and future Hall of Famer is the only fighter to ever win eight world championships in eight different weight divisions and was the first pugilist to ever win four lineal championships in four different weight classes. The Boxing Icon has escalated his talents into the pugilistic stratosphere and is a seemingly insurmountable task for any opposing fighter.
