Is Manny Pacquiao Going to Shock the World?
Published September 11, 2008 by Martin Bean
Since the Oscar De La Hoya vs. Manny Pacquiao fight was announced, I, unlike some others, was a very excited man. It’s a clash between the two best-supported fighters in the world (with Britain’s own Ricky Hatton just behind) clashing in Las Vegas.
Why I am so excited is simple—I truly believe that Manny will win. Many have discarded my comments on this so far but I say it with resolute belief.
Whilst there is a huge natural size difference, both will come in at 147lbs for this fight. It’s the first time Oscar will have come inside the Welterweight division for a number of years and that for me, will leave him somewhat drained. Then you must factor in the showing against Steve Forbes earlier this year—Forbes was never in any serious danger. He put together little flurries of punches and scored a few points and comfortably saw the 12 rounds through.
The ferocious Manny Pacquiao is a totally different proposition from Steve Forbes. Manny’s hands are so fast, he may not carry instant knock out power up at Welterweight but his punches will certainly carry enough ‘sting’ to cause Oscar concern. When they are thrown in lightning quick combinations in true Manny style, Oscar will back up and get caught.
Get on Youtube now and look back at Oscar vs. Forbes (highlight link here), when Forbes opens up, Oscar will be right there. When Oscar is on the attack, he almost looks square on, lacking the elusive sharpness and speed that was present in his younger years.
I expect Oscar to start fast, to try and impose his superior size but Manny will not fold. He may be hurt early, possibly even knocked down. But as the fight wears on, we will see Manny’s phenomenal work rate take over and down the stretch, Manny will reel of winning rounds.
Some people will call me crazy, but please get back to me on 7th December and tell me what you thought of the fight—Manny really is going to shock the world and become the biggest star in boxing.
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