T h e M ag a z i n e f o r ov e r s e a s f i l i p i n o s

Special Double Issue ISSN NO. 1908 - 3335

Manny Pacquiao vs. Joshua Clottey, A Most Significant Fight

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a most significant fight

By Victoria V. Ferro

Manny Pacquiao vs. Joshua Clottey,

Cover Story

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The Fight That Was Not

he whole world seemed to brace in excitement for the one of the greatest fights in history. The two claimants to the highest honor in pugilism, the pound for pound boxing crown, Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. were to have battled it out this March. But when the Mayweather camp unleashed accusations that Pacquiao took performance enhancing drugs to help him gain weight quickly (from 106 to 147) to effectively demolish opponents in progressively higher weight classes, the Pacquiao camp was more than piqued. Manny Pacquiao, who has never shown anything but respect towards his opponents outside the ring, was, for the first time that trainer Freddie Roach had ever seen him, enraged. The unfounded accusations of the Mayweather camp threatened to permanently sully Pacquiaos good name and challenged his honor in the sport of boxing. Pacquiao, who has never tested positive for a drug test, refused to give in to Mayweather Jr.s demand that he take the Olympic style of drug testing, citing previous experiences of weakening from the drawing of blood a mere hours before a fight. Pacquiao has never been questioned

on this aspect, why did the Mayweathers question him now, only months before the much vaunted fight? Scores of boxing analysts, pundits and fans from all over the world debated and discussed the riveting drama. Most boxing analysts seemed to say the same thing. Mayweather doesnt want to risk marring his perfect record of no defeats. Mayweather is afraid to fight Pacquiao. The accusations, they say, are mere ploys, tactics to stop or stall the fight. They called Mayweather Jr. a coward or worse, and many expressed themselves by creating digital art portraying him as such and proliferating it on the internet. The worst Pacquaio would say was, I guess hes not ready for the fight. A statement, which in the humility and meekness of its expression, showed that despite the fierce public attack on his character, the champion would not go down to their level. His gentle demeanor and refusal to verbally counterattack notwithstanding, Pacquiao would not take this sitting down. He filed a lawsuit against the Mayweather camp, the serious nature of which was made public when the actual documents propagated on the Internet. He will be satisfied with nothing less than complete legal and public exoneration. He was going to make them pay with their substance in government courts.

Manny Pacquiao with Bob Arom, Joshua Clottey and the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders Special Double Issue 

Talks for the fight stalled. Bob Arum of Top Rank Productions was left high and dry with a March 13 fight date but an empty slot for the opponent of worlds top pugilist. Enter a fighter of relative obscurity: The Ghana native Joshua Clottey, aka, the Grandmaster. It took some time for the global boxing community to somewhat get over the fact that the colossal fight between the two pound for pound kings would not happen at this time but get over it they did, at least for now, partly because it became increasingly clear that a Pacquiao fight against the never-been-knocked out African warrior Clottey is not one to trivialize. Clotteys 3 career losses are considered by many boxing mavens as inconsequential. His first loss to Baldomir was due to disqualification because of Clotteys head butts. His 2nd loss is not taken seriously because his opponent Margarito was discovered as having cheated opponents by loading his fists before a fight. Clottey lost to Miguel Cotto by split decision in his last fight, an outcome which many boxing pundits thought could have gone either way. Some feel Clottey, who came out of the Cotto fight relatively unscathed should have won that fight. Indeed Joshua Clottey considers himself virtually undefeated. In fact Clottey could be the most dangerous opponent that the Pacman has ever faced. With an extremely fit, finely chiseled body that looks like it was cast in black marble, Clottey is bigger, taller and arguably stronger than Pacquiao. Clottey who at weigh in day can come in at the welterweight catch weight of 147 lbs., has been known to show up on fight night a whopping 20 lbs heavier, which is a lot more brawn that Pacquaio may have to contend with. Clottey is known to have one of the strongest defensive arsenal in boxing. He is able to protect his face and body by keeping his arms up, elbows close to his waist,


proving to be a near impenetrable high guard in his past fights. He also has a strong offensive arsenal, including a potentially lethal upper cut. Moreover, Clottey has a wingspan or reach a full 3 inches longer than Pacquaios. He can be a powerful and aggressive body puncher. He is blessed with an incredibly strong chin that can take some of the toughest punches, Clottey is also a durable fighter, with strength and stamina enough that lets him go the distance with the rounds and yet never get knocked out. Not yet anyway.

Why Clottey Is Doubly Dangerous

What makes Clottey even more dangerous is his history of fighting dirty. He has been known for low blows, head banging or head butting, and holding tactics in past fights. In fact it was his head butting action that cut terrible gashes above the eyebrow of Puerto Rican Miguel

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strongly motivating him to win. He considers it great blessing come upon him to fight against Pacquiao. It is his chance to bring hope and inspiration to his country, the struggling African nation of Ghana, and provide a better life for his 10 year old daughter, Zeenat, who resides there. Clottey is doubly dangerous because he is motivated to do whatever it takes because of his searing hunger to win.

Pacman in Phenomenal Shape

Freddie Roach is not very much concerned however. He and conditioning coach, Alex Ariza, say Manny is in phenomenal shape, the best shape of his career to date. His handspeed and footspeed are blazingly fast, faster than ever. Roach says Pacquiaos speed will neutralize Clotteys dirty tactics. He says Clottey will not find Manny in close proximity. As with past Pacquaio opponents, Clottey will not know where the Pacmans punches are coming from. His strength level is tremendously high, with Pacquiao often doing more than the exercises and rounds required by his trainers. After winning 7 titles in 7 weight divisions, Roach is amazed that his ward Pacquiao is still a ravenous fighter, outtraining every other fighter with his extreme focus, indefatigable work ethic and strong discipline, showing fierce determination not only in defending his welterweight title, but also in giving his beloved fans a great show on March 13th. Many boxing experts consider the Pacman a fully realized fighter, a thinking fighter with a complete boxing arsenal and the ability to plot strategy, like no other fighter in the world today, and yet incredibly, Manny Pacquiao is still not done improving his game. The Fighter of the Decade continues to get better, faster and stronger. He has not yet finished peaking at the age of 31. And unlike the predictions before the Oscar De La Hoya fight, which were overwhelmingly for the soon to be demolished Golden Boy, this time the overwhelming majority of pundits and analysts predict a Pacman triumph, with several saying that Pacman will win not by knockout, but only by decision with the fight going the distance of 12 rounds. Freddie Roach is so impressed with Pacquiaos progress in training however that he predicts Pacquiao will knock out Clottey in the 6th or 7th round instead of the 9th or


Cotto that bled profusely during their fight, later requiring 20 stitches. Clotteys head butts injured Baldomir with cuts as well. Joaquin Henson, sports analyst at Philstar. com also mentions that sometimes it seems Clottey has blades in his gloves that can really cut up an opponent. Henson calls Clottey an instinctively dirty fighter that may be traced to approaches he learned growing up in a brawl-rich fishing town in Ghana, surviving the streets by boxing and fighting from a very young age. Henson recalls that when Flash Elorde fought Ghana fighter Lav Eloti in the 1960s at the Araneta Coliseum, the African resorted to headbutting, hitting below the belt and holding, dirty tactics reminiscent of Clotteys. Henson predicts that Clottey will be disqualified in the fight with Pacquiao due to dirty tactics. And since Clottey felt he was robbed of the title in his fight with Cotto, the fight with Pacquiao is his chance to vindicate himself and to make it as an elite champion,

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10th round that he originally predicted. Lenny de Jesus, Clotteys trainer and former cutman for Pacquiao for 6 fights in the 90s says he has the key to defeat Pacquiao. He did not feel he needed to look at Pacquiao fight tapes to prepare Clottey for the fight because he claims he already has Pacquiaos style so indelibly in his mind. Boxing analysts say however that Pacquiao is a much evolved fighter from the days Lenny De Jesus served as his cutman and would be advised to take a look at some tapes. Nevertheless De Jesus experience serving as cutman, trainer and other corner roles in boxing for the last 40 years cant be dismissed. His expertise and counsel combined with Clotteys strengths may make for a substantial threat against the Pacman on fight day. In an unpredictable sport such as boxing, the possibility of an upset on fight day cant be discounted. So March 13, 2010 promises to be an unforgettable historic banner day for the sport, not only because the fight is shaping up to be a truly exciting one between two of the worlds top welterweight fighters but also because of the radical upgrade in venue.

When the Pacquiao-Mayweather fight fell through, Jones still bid $7million for the Pacman-Clottey. He says his main interest is really drawing the Pacman to fight in the Cowboys Stadium. He says having a boxer with the caliber and stature of Pacquiao fight in the Cowboys Stadium would be the only fitting boxing debut for the house the Jerry built. Said Jones, The events for [Cowboys Stadium] have to be big; thats why I was so interested in Manny Pacquiao, Jones said. Manny Pacquiao being the superb fighter, athlete, person that he is, thats the kind of competitor you want in the stadium. Think about it. The Las Vegas Mandalay Bay venue can seat lets say about 12,000 people. Cowboys Stadium can seat almost 10 times that number. The lowest ticket price for a Las Vegas seat is $150. The lowest ticket price for a Cowboys Stadium seat for the upcoming fight is only $50! Think how much more accessible to boxing fans such a venue would be.

No bad seats
Not only are prices more accessible, the action will be viscerally experienced by live audiences more than in other venues because of stunningly clear images that will be projected on the enormous 11, 520 square feet (160 ft wide, 72 ft long) high definition digital video screen that is housed inside the Stadium. It is the worlds largest HD digital video screen made up of about 30 million pixels of crystal clear HD. Nicknamed JerryTron, the screen will display live fight action like never before in boxing history. The screen, which can be adjusted in height will be placed 40 feet above the ring on Saturday for the live audiences optimal viewing experience. Imagine Pacquiaos face alone taking up as much as 75 feet of the screen during the fight. Every punch, the sound of blows hitting muscle, every grimace and facial expression heightened and experienced by the use of this stunning technology. Pacquiao is in fact tremendously energized by the venue and is excited to fight in the stadium that Jerry built. Indeed it seems much of the energy that may have been drained by the negativity of the Mayweather debacles has been largely offset by the tremendous positive energy of having the Pacman fight in the Cowboys Stadium.

The $1.2billion Glass and Steel Colossus

Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys NFL American football team is the billionaire behind the construction of the Cowboys Stadium, the 111,000 seater, glass and steel architectural colossus, the largest Dome Stadium in the world. He had just built the gigantic top of the line structure for a whopping $1.2 billion dollars completed May 27, 2009. In order to sustain the buildings business model, Jones needs to attract the most vastly popular, highest ticket events and attractions. This is why when the Pacman-Mayweather fight was still in the offing, Jones bid $25million for the fight, I wanted that fight worse than my next breath.


Pacquiao and the NFL

Indeed the lavish press conference held at the Stadium that welcomed the fighters and announced the fight on March 12, 2010 made Pacquiao feel like a football player. Pacquiao walked out of the dug out amidst the

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stylish effects of a fog machine and the iconic Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders flanking the Pacman on either side, enthusiastically cheering and waving their pompoms. Even Ryan Seacrest of American Idol says that Dallas is his favorite audition location because of the presence of these beautiful cheerleaders. Pacquiao was introduced in a ceremony of pomp and circumstance worthy of the most honored NFL player, and yet more utterly satisfying and special because Pacquiao is not a NFL player but a once impoverished Filipino who slept in cardboard boxes in the streets. One might think Pacmans influence is already extraordinarily far-reaching in and beyond the world of boxing, yet here one sees the owner of the four-time SuperBowl winning NFL Dallas Cowboys, themselves mythic power symbols of mainstream Americana, desperately wooing the ever humble Pacquiao to fight in his colossal $1.3 billion first class luxury venue so that it

may be put squarely on the boxing map. One can more easily fathom Hollywood royalty flocking to the WildCard Gym to watch Pacquiao train or watch his fights, but when could it ever be imagined that an NFL power player billionaire like Jones would need Pacquiao (notice he needed Pacquiao, not Mayweather) in such a bad way? Such is the wonder and irony, that the first superfight in the Cowboys Stadium is Manny Pacquiao versus Joshua Clottey, warriors from two of the most economically challenged countries and regions in the world, both of whom have personally known poverty, would come to such a point in their lives, that they are needed by the NFL, and that the NFL would want to be their friends. This is unprecedented and precious. Jones, shrewd businessman that he is, proved to be absolutely correct about Pacquiao. The venue has nearly sold out all 45,000 open tickets still 3 days away from the


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event. A great number of Hispanic fans who are Texas residents are expected to make the drive to Arlington for the main event. Though dubbed Mexicutioner, Pacquiao is well loved by Hispanic fans because he is simply a great fighter with a great heart. Pacquiaos fan base and popularity continues to cut through boundaries. Despite not being chosen to be covered by HBO 24/7 this time, the Pacquiao mystique continues to grow as people observe how he makes choices for living. He continued his tradition of a weight loss challenge to his staff and friends, doing the weigh-ins himself, and personally gave away $200,000 in prize money to winners. The prelude to this fight had the Pacquiao team working in greater harmony and rapport, with no more drama between team members. Pacmans legendary workouts and sparring sessions continue to be packed with visitors but what is most fascinating is the telling smile on his face when he is doing the most rapid type of punching combinations. This is one man who truly relishes what he does with every powerful punch. Gossip and scandals about Pacquiao have been silenced as the lovely Jinkee Pacquiao has taken her place beside her man, and no other. Pacquiao charmed and delighted his fans when he guested again in Jimmy Kimmel live. They actually showed the trailer of Wapakman which may be the only instance that the entire trailer of a Filipino movie has been shown on mainstream American TV. Pacquiao once again fearlessly regaled his fans with a song. Yahoo Sports TV did an entire series of exclusive video interviews with Pacquiao, one of which featured Manny doing a mini-concert playing guitar and singing a Filipino song. The Pacquiao Express fascinates us as Pacquiao brought 170 of his closest friends through
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a chartered plane because as he said gusto ko, sama sama lahat. Much of this content would very unlikely see airing or publication unless it be for Manny Pacquiao, whose very simplicity, humility, faith in God, and great good humor, is just all too authentic, and ultimately riveting to watch. People tune in to see if this man is the real deal, and He is. This authenticity only cements the perception of Pacquiaos transcendence which one media pundit said in the HBO 30 minute fight preview The Road to Dallas as what Jones recognized, and what compelled him to invite Pacquiao to fight there. Indeed Jones is already planning with Top Rank Productions Bob Arum to hold future Pacquiao fights in the Cowboys Stadium, the next one tentatively scheduled for October/November 2010.

The Event, March 13, 2010

Bert Sugar, boxing historian, says Pacquiao is the best Asian fighter of all time, and not just a fighter, but a phenomenon. He also said If there is a fight to prove that he (Manny Pacquiao) is a full fledged welterweight, this is it. This is also a fight to prove Mannys marketability on his own as a name ticket, no GoldenBoy or Mayweathers. This is also a banner fight in boxing history because almost 50,000 fans will be able to watch this fight live at close HD range, in an opulent first class building at affordable rates creating an accessible visceral experience like any other, with Pacquiao as its debut marquee name. This fight is the first one that is 100% supported by NFL representatives. This fight is the first one that more fully accommodates Hollywood, the NFL as well as regular citizens into the live venue. This fight has more significance to Filipinos everywhere than meets the eye. Dont miss it. P

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Interview with Ronnie Nathanielsz on the Pacman-Clottey Fight

By Victoria V. Ferro Ronnie Nathanielsz, veteran sports analyst who has
covered Pacquiaos boxing career since his early years, answers questions about the Pacman-Clottey fight. He is chief operating officer of Viva Sports and broadcast journalist for Viva Prime Channel, and regularly contributes boxing news and features to top boxing website www.philboxing. com. I was in Los Angeles and Las Vegas to cover the fight for ABSCBN along with Dyan Castillejo. I didnt wish to interview Mayweather but Dyan did and in fact sat next to him on the ring apron. He was very accommodating to her I must confess. It was the PR lady who refused Chino Trinidad Ronnie Nathanielsz of GMA 7 and Joseph Chief Operating Officer, Viva Sports Pimentel of ABS-CBN, the two biggest networks in the Philippines with audiences that run into millions. Mayweather lost an opportunity to project himself in a decent light but blew it and no matter how this Swanson lady tries to deny the claim of Chino and Joseph, just about everybody knows the lady is lying. Has these events affected Pacman at all in terms of his training and focus for the Clottey fight? Nothing affects Manny Pacquiao, least of all the Mayweathers.

On Floyd Mayweather:
Do you know the status of Pacmans lawsuit against Mayweather? What is your take on the whole series of events? It is still there and Bob Arum tells us, it will be pursued. Hes got top notch lawyer Daniel Petrocelli handling the lawsuit. Arum claims that Manny Pacquiao will not only knock Floyd Mayweather, Jr. out in the ring, he will also knock him out in court. Prior to the fight between Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Juan Manuel Marquez last October, I visited the offices of Golden Boy Promotions in Los Angeles and in their boardroom, CEO Richard Schaefer whom I considered a friend told me quite surprisingly that he was sure Manny Pacquiao was on performance enhancing drugs. Of course when the story came out Schaefer denied he said any such thing although he admitted that we met and confirmed all the other details. He knows and I know that he did level that allegation and the photo I took with him after our conversation says it all --- I had a glum look on my face but when I took a photo with Eric Gomez who was in the office at that time, just one minute later, we were both smiling. In short, Schaefers accusation upset me although I didnt say a thing at that time. Have you tried to interview Mayweather and his camp? Did they also push you away as he did to Chino Trinidad and other Filipino journalists?

On the March 13, 2010 Pacman-Clottey fight:

As of today, Roach predicts a knock out against Clottey on the 7th-8th round (if Im not mistaken). This means he considers Clottey a tougher opponent than Hatton or Cotto (whom he predicted to be defeated in earlier rounds). Do you think Clottey stands a chance against Pacquiao? Joshua Clottey is a big, strong welterweight who by fight time usually comes in at around 160 pounds although his trainer/cutman Lenny De Jesus, a wonderful person and


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a good friend told me, he plans to have Clottey step into the ring at around 155 pounds which will still give him a substantial weight advantage over Pacquiao. Clottey is harder to hit because of his defensive style with both hands virtually covering his face and head which enables him to take many of his opponents punches on the forearms or the gloves which in turn helps frustrate them and wear them down. Any fighter, especially a big strong fighter like Clottey has a chance but not a good chance, especially if Manny is in the kind of condition both trainer Freddie Roach and conditioning expert Alex Ariza say he is in, which is phenomenal. I hear Pacquiaos condition is stellar and evenmore improved from last fight. Is this true? The break in-between the Cotto and Clottey fights was relatively short which means that Manny didnt really get out of condition. Besides, he played a lot of basketball which helped maintain his physical condition. Who do you predict will will this fight? I predict that Pacquiao will win but I doubt whether he will be able to knock Clottey out. What I foresee is that with his hand-speed, quick in-and-out movement and attacking Clottey from different angles he may at some stage hurt him and throw so many punches that the referee will step in and call a halt for a TKO victory. Is there a peculiar significance to this particular fight beyond Pacquiao defending his welterweight belt? Pacquiao needs to put on a decidedly impressive performance to reinforce his status as the pound-for-pound king and The Fighter of the Decade. Beyond that a big win will further strengthen his bargaining position with Floyd Mayweather, Jr. or Shane Mosley whoever wins on May 1 and a fight between Pacquiao and the winner will be a fight that will simply have to be made. Is there any special significance with the fact that the fight will be fought in a new venue (Texas)? The venue has rejuvenated Pacquiao. Its an awesome site and a new challenge to Pacquiao whose first most memorable victory over Marco Antonio Barrera was at the Alamadome in San Antonio, Texas in November 2003.
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Texas is known for its bigness and Manny is the biggest star in boxing today and if Jerry Jones who owns the Dallas Cowboys Stadium plays his cards right, he may well score a touchdown and make his stadium The new Mecca of Boxing replacing Las Vegas.

On Pacmans future as fighter

Before the Cotto fight, Pacman said in an interview that he will have just three more fights before he retires so that he can focus on being with his family and hopefully serving the country in Congress. If so, with whom do you think will Pacmans final fight will be? Wining in the congressional elections may prove to be harder than beating Joshua Clottey because Mannys opponent represents a formidable family in Sarangani. Win or lose I believe hell have one last go at getting a fight with Mayweather if he wins as I believe he will or Mosley should he win, before retiring. Any further thoughts on Pacmans future as a fighter? Do you think the fact that Pacman may never fight Mayweather may mar his standing as arguably the greatest fighter of all time (per Bob Arum)? If the Mayweather fight doesnt materialize it wont be Pacquiaos fault. The blame will rest squarely with Mayweather for, after all, Manny agreed to random blood tests 24 days before the fight and immediately after the fight. So if hes on any performance enhancing drugs, it would surely show. The entire blood testing issue and the 14 day demand were Mayweathers way of avoiding Pacquiao because he fears losing his unbeaten record. Its as simple as that.

On Manny Pacquiaos Global Impact

What sort of impact has Pacquiao been making in the course of the last few months from his triumph over Cotto to his preparations for the March 13 Clottey fight? The Philippines has been blessed with a long line of great champions from Pancho Villa, Ceferino Garcia to Gabriel Flash Elorde. But for all the champions that came and went, there has never been a fighter of the caliber, the class and the indomitable courage of Manny Pacquiao. He has done more to redeem respect for the Philippines and his countrymen than anyone else in our lifetime.

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There are two others who stand alongside him - the late President Cory Aquino who was also on the cover of Time Magazine in 1986 and the late Gen. Carlos P. Romulo, the first president of the UN General Assembly and former Foreign Secretary. He has crossed over from being a mere fighter to being a charismatic personality who has won the hearts of fight fans and the media who are often hard to please by his demeanor both in and outside the ring and his humility which is remarkable considering he came from the bowels of poverty and has attained so much in life. He was superb on the Jimmy Kimmel show which is extremely popular among young people. His recognition by Time Magazine was an accolade well-deserved but which means he will come under increasing public scrutiny and must live by the highest standards of moral and ethical conduct and must ensure that his integrity, which is the quality of wholeness, must be unsullied. He must strive with every fiber in his body to live up to these noble standards.

How do you think Pacquiao has evolved in the course of this fight? Skills-wise, Strength-wise, and in other aspects of his life (managing his career), and wielding more power in making deals, for example? He has grown from strength to strength perhaps more as a smart human being in a business sense rather than a fighter. He has honed his skills, with the help of Roach, and improved with every fight. He has moved up in weight and carried it well due largely to the efforts of his conditioning guru Alex Ariza. As for making deals, most of us hope he would cut out the leeches that surround him and get one trusted financial adviser who would know how to invest his evarnigs well because it is clear that his career is coming to an inexorable end and my only hope is, hell retire a champion. What do you find personally most meaningful in your coverage of Pacquiaos boxing career? Its a tremendously satisfying feeling to know that a poor boy who started his boxing career on a show we produced and often anchored for several years, is the greatest Filipino and Asian fighter of all-time. That Manny is unquestionably one of the greatest fighters of our time is an incredible feat and a supreme honor for the Philippines and in the twilight

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The magic of Manny Pacquiao

By Ed Picson

n the mid-90s, Manny Pacquiao was far from being a household name. But wherever he went to fight, he displayed the star quality that was to burst forth at the turn of the century when he stepped on the international stage and shocked the world with his dramatic conquests. I was anchorman of the TV show Blow by Blow where Pacquiao cut his teeth in the rough and tumble world of professional boxing. Even in his teens, the Pacman was already in his elements whenever he saw and heard the adulation of the crowds. And he invariably got it everywhere he went. Since the television show was aired nationwide, true blue boxing aficionados in the countryside were already aware of the electric atmosphere Pacquiao created whenever he fought. When word came that he would be fighting in a boxing card in the provinces, boxing fans would flock in droves to catch a glimpse and feel the magic of the young man from General Santos. And he rarely disappointed. Even if Manny Pacquiaos style will never be described as a model for those who wish to take up the sport, people are entertained by his ferocity. His wild and devil-may-care attitude when the bell rings cannot be found in any book or tutorial in boxing. But the energy he exudes and the intensity of his purpose invariably rubs off on the spectator, thereby drawing him into his frenetic dance of destruction and mayhem. The dance has caught on now and the whole world gyrates maddeningly to its beat. As he goes through the most stellar names in the business systematically purging their ranks, the Pacquiao fever continues to spread. To say that Pacquiao feeds off the excitement of the crowd would be an understatement. You see it the moment he enters the arena. He immediately breaks into a wide smile of child-like amazement as he takes in the cheers of his adoring public, seemingly enraptured by the mania he


causes. Many a time, even new converts to pacmania are shocked at the disparity in the attitude of Pacquiao and his opponents as they enter the venue. Manny always looks as if he comfortable in the milieu, amidst the din and confusion whereas his foes are tense and take on the looks of a man being led to the gallows. And at the end of the episode, the more relaxed and confident one would emerge victorious. Another facet that is sometimes ignored is Pacquiaos religiosity. While some may deem it as a put-on, those who know him are aware that he draws immense strength from it. Pacquiao truly believes that God listens to his supplications and is on his side. Naturally, if you have someone like that in your corner, nothing could possibly go wrong. Even in the most difficult of situations in the ring, Pacquiao turns to his God, confident that he will never be turned down. Thus he is able to find a way to wriggle out of trouble. That is the kind of relationship he has with the Supreme Being, one that is anchored on an unshakeable faith that carries him through in the direst straits. But Manny is no fool. He knows that God would only side with him if he keeps his part of the deal. This is

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why his work ethic as he prepares for a fight is legend. His outlook which he has articulated many times would do any boxer well: kill yourself in training and there wont be any surprises come fight time. The serendipity of his landing in Freddie Roachs care is almost eerie. It came at a time when Manny was at a crossroads in his career. He had lost a championship and was slowly getting back in contention but could not find suitable opponents in the region. That early, he already had a reputation as a career-breaker and boxing managers were wary of pitting their boys against such an unpredictable and explosive foe. So it was that his business manager at that time, the late Rod Nazario decided to bring him to the United States for some R&R to clear his head and ponder the future. They also looked around for a gym while there to keep in shape and lucked in on Roach. There was immediate chemistry between boxer and trainer and the proverbial die was cast. Fate was again found smiling upon the wide-eyed boxer in search of his rightful place in the boxing world. Then 122-pound king Lehlo Ledwaba, a respected and feared fighter, was scheduled to defend his title but his opponent suddenly withdrew because of an injury a couple of weeks before the fight. They looked for an opponent who was not supposed to spring any surprises but who might be able to put up some sort of a fight. Somehow they happened on Pacquiao-an awkward

fighter, yet no pushover but raw and unknown. He might provide some entertainment but was not likely to pose a threat. Of course, Pacquiao put the champion away by a sensational knock out and a star was born. Not a superstar yet, but a budding star in boxing circles, though not a few eyebrows were raised. Some called it a fluke and predicted an abbreviated reign. But Pacquiao saw the opportunity and blazed a trail never before seen or heard in these parts. When he challenged the legendary Marco Antonio Barrera, I was one of those who questioned the wisdom of such a move so early in his career. But when we bumped into each other, he assured me that he had followed the Mexicans style and he thought it fit him to a T. His style is perfect for me. He just stands there and I like that kind of a target. Ill get him, Pacquiao said with a smile. His old friend and trainer Buboy Fernandez also took me aside and confided that Manny had never been more powerful. After doing the mitts with Manny, my muscled quiver all the way till I lie in bed at night. If he hits anyone with that, the guy would be toast. And thus did he proceed to annihilate Barrera, got Eric Morales and Juan Manuel Marquez, Mexican idols all. But the bigger names were to follow suit, all unconvinced that the little Filipino guy could possibly tarnish their image. One by one they fell by the wayside...David Diaz, Ricky Hatton, Miguel Cotto. There are still quite a number of heathen non-believers who say Pacquiao could not be the real deal. And they chant the name of Floyd Mayweather to prove their point. Here is one guy, they say, that will finally unmask the pretender who now indisputably holds the title of no. 1 pound for pound. Manny Pacquiao characteristically just shrugs his shoulders and flashes that country boy smile. Bring him on, he says. With God and a n entire country pulling for him, the Manny knows those who doubt him will be hard put to find excuses when he disposes of Mayweather. And then the question arises: who else is there **The author is a long-time broadcaster/sports commentator/columnist. He is currently executive director of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines. P


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The fight according to Nathanielsz, Castillejo

By Victoria V. Ferro

I


asked two of the most well known sports analysts of the country, each an expert on Manny Pacquiao, for their views on the Firepower fight also known as Manny Pacquaio vs. Miguel Cotto. In this fight, Manny is contending for the 7th title of his career, this time in the welterweight class. If he succeeds, he will become the only boxer in the history of the world to have achieved such a feat. He may conceivably be termed as the greatest boxer who ever lived.

Ronnie Nathanielz and Dyan Castillejo have similar views on the fight. Both are predicting a win for the Filipino hero known as Pacman. Pinoy Global Access (PGA): Do you think Pacquiao is well conditioned for this particular fight? There are those questioning his decision to do his training in Baguio. As well the volume of distractions Pacquiao seemed to deal with then and now on a regular basis as factors that may detract from letting have the best conditioning possible for this fight.

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Ronnie Nathanielsz (RN): I have always been against him training in the Philippines although because of the IRS requirements we cannot blame Manny for making the decision in order to save millions of tax dollars. Baguio clearly was the best choice under the circumstances but unfortunately the weather intervened and made it more difficult. However, since Manny has a tendency to push himself too hard at times, the breaks caused by the typhoons may have in fact helped him because an occasional off-day does help him do better, especially in sparring. Besides, Manny has a tremendous capacity to effectively shut out the distractions as though he is wearing blinkers. He has shown this in the past, why not this time? Dyan Castillejos (DC): Yes in the best condition Ive seen him. As Freddie said, they didnt miss a day in Baguio. He is in the best shape of his career. Pacquiao is able to segmentize his life pretty well. When he gets on the ring for training...nothing distracts him. PGA: Do you think Pacquiao has gained enough in size to have the power to knock out Cotto? To neutralize even if his one inch larger fist?

RN: Pacquiao is one of the best examples of a fighter moving up in weight and carrying that weight extremely well. He hasnt bloated up just to make weight, he has let it grow onto him with solid muscle not flab. Pacquiaos power is accentuated by his speed. If a knockout comes it wont be a one-punch KO. It will be an accumulation of rapid-fire punches. I feel that he may cut up Cottos damaged eyebrow and maybe force a stoppage. DC: Yes, his punching is as strong as ever. Freddie Roach said today that his stomach hurts from how hard Pacquiao hits. Yes, he has grown in size so well. Yes, he has the power to knock out Cotto. PGA: I listened to the hour long analysis podcast of Quinito Henson on philstar.com... very comprehensive! Do you agree with his analysis of the fighters advantages and disadvantages. He says that Cotto may be the smarter fighter, the more adaptable given his ability to switch-hit, read his opponents and change strategy mid-fight. He says that Cotto is also the hungrier fighter who has more at stake than Pacman. He is fighting for respect, which he felt he did not get because of the concessions he had to give for the fight.


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RN: Sorry, I didnt listen to Quinito Hensons analysis. Off the cuff, I dont believe there is a fighter smarter than Manny who even gives his inputs on fight plans to trainer Freddie Roach. Manny must be real smart to have moved up in weight to win titles in six different divisions. There can be nothing more at stake than a record-setting seventh world title in a seventh weight division. Cotto may be fighting for respect but Manny has had the continuing theme, from day one of his illustrious career of fighting for his country and people. There can be no greater motivation than that, although Cotto is now saying the same thing. Fight strategy changes dictated largely by the corner and Cottos trainer Joe Santiago is clearly no match for Freddie Roach. DC: I didnt listen to the podcast, sorry. PGA: Will weight be a big factor that will be a disadvantage to Cotto (such as what happened with the De La Hoya fight) or not? RN: Cotto may feel the side effects of making the 145 pound limit, just like De La Hoya did although Cotto is a younger, stronger fighter. Remember what David Haye did to Nikolay Valuev. He used his speed and in-and-out tactics to beat Valuev who was almost 100 pounds heavier and one foot taller. As promoter Bob Arum and Roach have always maintained, speed kills and Mannys speed should overcome any disadvantages in weight. DC: Cotto says he has no problem making 145 pounds and hasnt weakened, but this remains to be seen in the ring. De la Hoya said the same thing but he had no strength on the ring. PGA: Freddie Roach has been quoted to say that this will be an easy fight for Pacquiao, even possibly knocking out Cotto in the early rounds. Do you agree with him? RN: It wont be an easy fight. Freddie is playing on the mind of Cotto and trainer Santiago although Cotto knows that and is not likely to be affected. When we spoke to Nonito Donaire just before he left to watch the fight, he said Manny should get to Cotto early and not let Cottos body shots wear him down in the later rounds. I think thats what Roach is banking on or hoping for and thats what fuels his prediction of a KO in the early rounds. Remember Hatton? DC: Freddie didnt say easy fight, but he repeatedly has said that because of the tremendous increase in power and speed and great movement, he believes Manny can knock out Cotto.


Yes, I agree. PGA: Do you agree with what some analysts believe as Pacmans overconfidence in this fight? RN: Manny is never overconfident. At least he never shows it publicly. He simply knows who he is and what hes capable of. DC: No, hes not overconfident. Hes trained like crazy but is self assured and confident because he can feel his great condition. PGA: Have you had the opportunity to talk to each fighter

or each fighters coaches/team? What is your impression of their level of preparation and confidence? What are the big differences and similarities between the two? RN: Manny struck us as being very happy and quietly confident, believing as he always says, that it all depends on God and so far, God has showered His blessings on him. As for the coaches, Roach is, as always, supremely confident of the man he calls the best fighter in the world. Roach is far more experienced than Santiagoknows his fighter in and out and has his confidence. Santiago has been a seven-year partner in the gym and as such a friend of Cotto. He really doesnt train Cotto. Cotto trains himself and at fight time, in the corner, that may well spell the difference.

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redeem respect for the Philippines and his countrymen than anyone else in our lifetime. There are two others who stand alongside him - the late President Cory Aquino who was also on the cover of Time Magazine in 1986 and the late Gen. Carlos P. Romulo, the first president of the UN General Assembly and former Foreign Secretary. He has crossed over from being a mere fighter to being a charismatic personality who has won the hearts of fight fans and the media who are often hard to please by his demeanor both in and outside the ring and his humility which is remarkable considering he came from the bowels of poverty and has attained so much in life. He was superb on the Jimmy Kimmel show which is extremely popular among young people. His recognition by Time Magazine was an accolade well-deserved but which means he will come under increasing public scrutiny and must live by the highest standards of moral and ethical conduct and must ensure that his integrity, which is the quality of wholeness, must be unsullied. He must strive Cotto started preparing one month ahead of Manny. with every fiber in his body to live up to these noble He may have overdone it and that could hurt. Manny standards. needs a shorter training period distractions and all because when he gets into the gym and training mode, DC: Pacman is the most exciting fighter today. He he trains harder than any other athlete in the world. has American, Mexican, Latino and Filipino fans, of He is relentless and kills himself in the gym. Maybe, course. with the typhoons and all and a couple of politicians messing things up, it may have been a little too short PGA: How do you think Pacquiao has evolved in the this time around. Well have to wait and see. course of preparing for this particular fight? Skills-wise, As for the fighters, they have shown great respect for each Strength-wise, and in other aspects of his life (managing other which is good to see and should set an example to his career), and wielding more power in making deals, other arrogant and sometimes abrasive fighters. for example? PGA: How significant is this fight beyond the seven titles in seven weight classes, no one in history has attained status? What sort of impact is Pacquiao making in the course of preparing for this fight (eg. Time Magazine cover and interview on Jimmy Kimmels show). RN: He has grown from strength to strength perhaps more as a smart human being in a business sense rather than a fighter. He has honed his skills, with the help of Roach, and improved with every fight. He has moved up in weight and carried it well due largely to the efforts of his conditioning guru Alex Ariza. As RN: The Philippines has been blessed with a long for making deals, most of us hope he would cut out line of great champions from Pancho Villa, Ceferino the leeches that surround him and get one trusted Garcia to Gabriel Flash Elorde. But for all the financial adviser who would know how to invest champions that came and went, there has never been his earnings well because it is clear that his career is a fighter of the caliber, the class and the indomitable coming to an inexorable end and my only hope is, courage of Manny Pacquiao. He has done more to hell retire a champion.
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DC: Its amazing how he keeps improving with every fight. His confidence level is very high. Hes not cocky, just confident. He just really knows he has it because it comes out in training. With his skills, he is much more the complete fighter. He can easily adapt to what Freddie says.

and power will be too much. But of course, Cotto has a prayerful chance. PGA: Will this be Pacmans last fight? Why or why not?

RN: I dont believe it will be his last fight especially PGA: Your fearless forecast: Who will win this fight? if he wins. The whole world wants a Pacquiao-Floyd How? What round? Why? Mayweather Jr fight but promoter Bob Arum told me its tough to do before March 13 which is a date the RN: Not to go with Pacquiao would be considered Dallas Cowboys owners want Manny to fight in their traitorous considering what he has done for our coun- new stadium. try. Having been part of his career for the first seven Obviously revenue sharing will be a sticky point. years in the ring as a skinny young kid and seeing his Besides, Mayweathers manager Mr. Ellerbee as well unbelievable courage, we expect him to overcome the as Floyd tend to look down on Manny whom they odds as they are in terms of weight, size and power. merely referred to as a good little fighter not in the We expect Manny to win by stoppage with Cotto class of Mayweather. That being said money will evenbeing cut so badly that the referee will be forced to tually talk. stop the fight in the middle rounds. I pray to God The easier fight to make for March 13 which PacIm right because our country could do with a lift in quiao would like to get done is against Juan Manuel its spirits. Marquez who gave Manny a hard time in their two meetings and has been chasing Pacquiao ever since. DC: It will be very hard to beat Pacquiao. His speed Marquez loss to Mayweather may have dampened
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interest in a trilogy but there are enough media folk who believe Marquez deserves one more shot at Manny. But if that happens I think Manny will knock him out within four rounds which would be a boost to his congressional campaign for sure. That fight could be made at 140 pounds. Manny wants to fight in March to give himself a final boost before the elections but Bob Arum told he cannot make it happen with so short a time and having to deal with a jerk like Floyd. PGA: What do you find personally most meaningful in your pursuit of a story relating to the Pacman-Cotto fight? I could also phrase it as follows: What is it that you enjoy or look forward to the most as you pursue your story for this Pacman-Cotto fight coverage? RN: Its a tremendously satisfying feeling to know that a poor boy who started his boxing career on a show we produced and often anchored for several years, is the greatest Filipino and Asian fighter of alltime. If Manny - or should I say when Manny wins over Cotto, he would unquestionably be the greatest fighter in the history of the sport. It would it be an incredible feat and a supreme honor for the Philippines and in the twilight of our years, what more can we ask for? P

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