Manny Pacquiao is focused. And for arguably the most popular athlete in Filipino history, that’s a good thing.
The former featherweight champion has isolated himself in preparation for Hector Velazquez, chasing away the crowds and hangers-on that usually adore his training camps. Over the past few weeks, it has been “Pac-Man”, trainer Freddie Roach — and not many others.
The result? All business-type workouts, and an unprecedented focus. He may need it, not for Tijuana underdog Velasquez, 42-10-2 (31 knockouts) — whom he’ll meet in a junior lightweight showdown from Los Angeles (7:45 p.m., Saturday, HBO) — but for his proposed next opponent.
Former three-division champ Erik Morales.
A wake-up call
Last March, Pacquiao, 39-3-2 (31 knockouts), lost a thrilling 12-round decision to “El Terrible”. And while it was close and Pacquiao got in his licks, there was little question that Morales was the winner.
Maybe it was an off-night for the pride of the Philippines. Or maybe Pacquiao was due for a fall.
Afterall, since knocking out Marco Antonio Barrera on Nov. 15, 2003, Pacquiao’s life had been a whirlwind. An interview here, a championship belt ceremony there — and fans everywhere.
Then, of course, there were the parties and nightlife and pool tables that reportedly were taking up a large chunk of Pacquiao’s time. It’s sure more fun than locking yourself in a dungeon and punishing your body.
Steadily, his performances began to decline.
The first hint of Pacquiao’s lack of focus came on May 8, 2004, when he met Mexico’s Juan Manuel Marquez in a featherweight unification matchup in Las Vegas. After dropping Marquez three times in the first round, Pacquiao lost his poise and allowed Marquez to box his way back into the fight.
It resulted in a controversial draw. Then came the loss to Morales.
Now he says he’s rededicated. But can Pacquiao truly escape his popularity in the Philippines?
He made a motion picture after the Morales fight, and attended the Hollywood premiere of “Lisensyadong Kamao” last week in L.A. He plays the starring role of a boxer who goes to Manila in search of the greener pasture. Rumor has it, the movie will be an entry at next year’s Cannes Film Festival.
The musical group Black-Eyed Peas also recorded a song for Pacquiao, called “The Champion.” The rough cut will be played for Pacquiao’s ring entrance against Velasquez.
And pro wrestling stars The Undertaker and Christian will be on hand Saturday to cheer Pac-Man on.
Did anybody say focus?
In Manny Pacquiao’s world, easier said than attained.
Pac-Man doomed?
If Pacquiao is indeed as focused as he’s been in his career, he will surely become a force again. He is still physically in his prime at age 26, and one of the most naturally-powerful fighters in boxing.
If not, perhaps Pacquiao is doomed to suffer the same fate as dozens before him. A fighter who fizzled out much too soon. And much too fast.
Matthew Aguilar may be reached at [email protected]; 546-6166
