The Sports world is in a zombie like state as we all await the outcome of the negotiations between Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao. However, Floyd Jr isn’t the only option for Manny’s next fight.
In fact, Manny has at least 5 other opponents that could stand across the ring from him in November. It seems that in addition to Floyd Mayweather Jr, Manny Pacquiao is the ‘golden goose’ for most challengers. Let’s examine Manny’s other options.
5) Paul Williams Williams is calling out ‘anyone who’s anyone’ in the welterweight division. Not only has Williams called out Floyd Jr, but he made sure that everyone knew he would love to fight Manny. Unfortunately, I don’t see this fight happening. Paul has at least 7 to 8 inches on Manny and an incredible reach advantage.
4) Yuri Foreman Bob Arum has said on multiple occasions that Manny is interested in a potential match-up with the winner of Yuri Foreman and Miguel Cotto. Now, most people are focusing on a rematch against Cotto. But, what if Yuri wins? Foreman would still be undefeated and also have the height advantage. It definitely would be an interesting clash between the two. At least we would have a professional and respectful hyping of the fight due to each man’s faith in God and humbleness. Here’s an example of Foreman’s respect for Manny. Quote is from late February 2010:
?And Pacquiao, listen, is such a great fighter in my eyes. Really, he’s pretty much the pound-for-pound best. And that’s a great compliment when it’s coming from him that he’s considering me as a fighter or an opponent. That’s a great honor? Yuri Foreman, Fanhouse
3) Miguel Cotto If Cotto upsets Foreman and takes the strap, I think a rematch against Manny would be a “lock”. Cotto wants revenge for his loss to Manny last November. Manny completely dominated Miguel and by the end of the fight, Cotto’s face was battered and bloody.
Many fans are disgruntled over this possible rematch because they would rather see a Floyd Jr fight or because they believe that Manny would beat Cotto again. But this rematch could provide Manny a chance at winning a world title in an 8th weight class. (Same for if Manny fought Yuri)
If Miguel Cotto defeats Yuri Foreman, he would be the first man to do so and the victory could provide a plausible excuse for Miguel’s previous encounter with Pacquiao. Also, Manny Pacquiao would have to come up in weight which could be an advantage for Miguel (or Yuri).
