When I went to Barcelona, I met a security guard from Dominican Republic. When he learned that I am a Filipino, he immediately closed his two fists and said, "Manny Pacquiao." In the Dutch university, I met a Thai exchange researcher. He told me that he and other Thais are proud of what Manny Pacquaio has achieved. As Asians, they too celebrate Pacquiao's exploits and victories inside and outside the ring.
Inside the ring, Pacquaio is the recognized pound-for-pound king in the boxing world today. He won an unprecedented seven titles in seven weight divisions. He is the current World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion at 147 lbs. He is considered to be the greatest Asian boxer of all-time, and is lined up among the greats of all time in the sports.
Outside the ring, Pacquiao is a national hero in the Philippines. He is also a politician who was elected as a lawmaker in the Philippine Congress. According to him, his heart goes out to those in need. He wants to serve the poor. Coming from similar ranks a decade ago, Pacquiao knows and understands the plight of the poor. He is also a devout Catholic.
With all these accolades and achievements, what is out there to achieve with the Margarito fight? Is it the pursuit of the eight world titles in eight weight divisions? Probably. Is it worth it? Yes.
Then, why Margarito, a boxer that was stripped of his license because of illegal hand wraps?
Pacquaio is the gem of boxing right now. Why mingle him with a faux stone?
I would love Pacquaio to see fight inside the ring; but not this. There is nothing to be achieved here except an additional title. But there is no honor in fighting someone who was found guilty of cheating.
Nonetheless, I wish him well.
