All across the land, boxing writers, sanctioning bodies, and fans are crowning middleweight Sergio Martinez as Fighter of the Year for 2010.
In beating Kelly Pavlik and Paul Williams during the last twelve months, Martinez captured a recognition that Manny Pacquiao has owned three times in the past four years.
The 2000s Fighter of the Decade dominated Joshua Clottey and Antonio Margarito, men that are naturally bigger and stronger, in wide decision victories last year, yet there seems to be a sentiment that Pacquiao had an ?off? year.
Boxing Truth Radio host John Chavez, questioned this line of thinking during last Sunday?s broadcast, by reminding us all that a few short years ago very few, if any, analysts would have given Pacquiao a fighting chance against Margarito, or Clottey.
Apparently when accomplishing incredible feats becomes the norm, more mind shattering feats are expected. Pulverizing a mountain and walking over the debris is more awe-inspiring than just climbing the mountain.
If you make Oscar De La Hoya quit on a stool, flatten Ricky Hatton with one vicious punch, and destroy Miguel Cotto with a wave of fury, run of the mill decision victories against Clottey and Margarito are not enough to capture year end awards.
Don?t get me wrong, I myself believe Martinez is worthy of the Fighter of the Year honors, but discrediting Pacquiao?s accomplishments is unfair.
Yes, I questioned the legitimacy of Pacquiao?s competition during 2010, but need to remember that two years ago Pacquiao was fighting featherweights.
What have been our reaction if Floyd had the same 2010, as Pacquiao? Would we have dismissed victories over Clottey and Margarito by the ?Pretty Boy??
Manny Pacquiao is clearly a victim of his own greatness.
