In wake of the Manny Pacquiao – Floyd Mayweather negotiations apparently coming to a halt, a plethora of pugilists have been mentioned as possible replacement opponents. Paulie Malignaggi has been mentioned for both Pacquiao and Mayweather. Mathew Hatton, Ricky’s brother, has been mentioned for Floyd too. For Pacquiao, the most likely plan B opponent seems to be former titleholder Joshua Clottey.
So how do any of these guys stack up against the two best fighters in the world?
Paulie Malignaggi – the former 140 pound titlist has been mentioned as an opponent for both Pacquiao and Mayweather. While Malignaggi is certainly an accomplished pro boxer, a look at the one common opponent he shares with both “Pacman” and “Money” Mayweather should show he doesn’t belong in the same ring with either men.
Malignaggi was stopped in the 11th round of his biggest fight – a 2008 junior welterweight championship bout against Ricky Hatton in Las Vegas.
This is the same Hatton that was stopped in the 10th round after being dominated by Mayweather and blitzed within two rounds by Pacquiao. Malignaggi is a light puncher who relies on speed and boxing ability to win fights. While that may work against pressure fighters like Juan Diaz, it won’t work against guys who are slicker than him like Pacquiao and Mayweather.
Oh yeah, he’s also vehemently accused Pacquiao of steroid use, which is why Pacquiao is suing Mayweather. So why would Manny award a big payday to a guy who’s doing the same thing he’s upset with the Mayweather’s for doing?
Mathew Hatton – Hatton brings a famous last name, but plain and simple: he would get killed by either Pacquiao or Mayweather. Let’s not entertain this idea any further for fear of vomiting and hope that Mayweather’s representatives do the same.
Joshua Clottey – Clottey is a legitimate top 10 welterweight who’s coming off a very close split decision loss to Miguel Cotto in a welterweight title fight last year. He has a granite chin, good punching power, and presents a risk to Pacquiao. However, what’s the reward to the fighting Filipino?
If Pacquiao beats Clottey, he simply beats a guy who has already lost to a guy Pacquiao dominated (Cotto). If he loses, it ruins a chance for the potential richest fight in boxing history to be salvaged. There’s still time to make Pacquiao – Mayweather happen. Hopefully the powers that be will listen and realize that fans aren’t interested in any of the alternatives.
If not, it’ll be up to the fighters listed above to make the most out of whatever opportunity they’re given.
