“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by.”– Robert Frost
So much meaning lies behind those few words written by the late Robert Frost. Many people live life parting their hair the same way everyday, applying makeup in an almost scientific method, or simply dressing in a routine order day by day, by day. They all live within their bland borders of comfort consciously bypassing the road less traveled.
The Featherweight division, quite possibly the most exhilarating pound for pound weight class, has some of boxing’s fiercest fighters: Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, and Marco Antonio Barrera just to name a few. Manny Pacquiao has fought them all, with one loss to Morales, a draw to Marquez and a win over Barrera.
Yes, these have all been great fights, entertaining to the tee, but how many times must we see them fight each other before our retinas no longer serve a purpose? Do not misunderstand or misconstrue this, watching Manny fight any of the aforementioned competitors speaks immensely on their individual talents and abilities. However, a little exposure to different boxing flavor wouldn’t hurt; perhaps a taste of Asian ferocity?
In Jin Chi can easily more than fit the bill in that department. It’s rather shocking that they have yet to meet in the ring with both boxers sporting solid records; In Jin Chi, 30-2-1, 18 KO’s, and Manny Pacquiao, 39-3-2, 31 KO’s. The five year age difference and stance may set them apart, but they have equal reach, 67 inches. Southpaws like Pacquiao tend to have the reach advantage when they encounter fighters with an orthodox stance like Chi and many others. This could all be no more than just a pipe-dream, but if they are to meet, it will not occur for a few months down the road since Chi has a scheduled match with Rocky Juarez, in late August at the Allstate Arena, Rosemont, IL.
Both Pacquiao and Chi bring the boxing fans to the edge of their seat action, top-notch performances and hearts bigger than their respective countries; which create all the makings for an exciting, must-see fight. The outcome, although debatable, is surely one to ignite a roar from the crowd. Any way we look at it, the caliber of fighting ability from both boxers won’t disappoint, rather it would more than likely ensue a rematch.
Manny Pacquiao does not shy away from big names or skilled fighters, making this current fantasy match-up a reality by years end. If they meet and Pacquiao takes the victory, it will further solidify him as fearless fighter, prepared for any and all challenges lying ahead. If Chi obtains the victory, not only will it heighten his prominence in the ring and amongst his peers, but it will also hopefully bring much need exposure and interest to other Korean boxers.
Manny Pacquiao’s training camp still needs to announce who, what and where their next step will be? Regardless of whom they choose to face, let’s hope it’s one worth watching and not a made-for-Manny fighter. Sometimes, although less traveled, the road least taken births the greatest rewards.
