Meet The New Best Boxer Alive — Manny Pacquiao
Judging by the fact that ESPN.com put a story up on Manny Pacquiao’s title-winning fight Saturday night on its main page, plus other measures, the new pound-for-pound best fighter on the planet is crossing over to the squares who don’t follow boxing. Squares: Consider this your comprehensive introduction to one of the most exciting, accomplished fighters of his time, who has personality in spades — is there any athlete anywhere ever who has recorded a hit record, ran for political office and gotten his own stamp? Get acquainted with Pacquiao, the boxer, and Pacquiao, the man…
Manny Pacquiao, The Boxer
There may be no athlete more beloved by his home country than Manny Pacquiao is in the Philippines. His fights stop wars. Literally. The government and rebels agreed to a ceasefire so that everyone could watch his rematch this year with Juan Manuel Marquez. For a number of his fights, crime fell, literally, to zero. There have been several reported instances of people having heart attacks rooting for Pacquiao. His fans live up to the root word “fanatical.” One recently commented on this site that Pacquiao would defeat The Incredible Hulk, without any hint of joking. A few called me a “baby-killer” for, at one point, considering Pacquiao only the third-best fighter alive.
Manny Pacquiao can make a claim to be the greatest fighter ever to emerge from the Philippines, with Pancho Villa and Flash Elorde probably the only other two contenders. One website, Eastsideboxing.com, recently asked whether he was the greatest Asian fighter of all time.
With his weekend win over David Diaz, some of the last holdouts among boxing observers who did not consider him the #1 boxer in the world, regardless of weight class — such as myself and ESPN boxing writer Dan Rafael — now consider him the best, toppling Wales’ Joe Calzaghe, Ring magazine’s reigning super middleweight (168 lbs.) and light heavyweight champion (175 lbs). The retirement of welterweight (147 lbs.) great Floyd Mayweather, Jr. left the vacancy, but even if he hadn’t retired, Pacquiao’s dominant win over Diaz may still have propelled him to the top because of Mayweather’s inactivity.
It’s basically a two-man race between Pacquiao and Mayweather for Fighter of the Decade. Ring magazine named Pacquiao the 2006 Fighter of the Year.
Pacquiao has won title belts in four divisions, after starting his career at 106 pounds. No Asian fighter has ever done that, although in this day and age of multiple title belts, this accomplishment must come with an asterisk.
At the beginning of his career, Pacquiao used his quicksilver hand speed, explosive power and a simple jab/straight left combination to wipe out any and all opponents. His first real chance to shine came when he was a late substitute in 2001 to fight for the 122-pound title of Lehlohonolo Ledwaba, and he employed the aforementioned recipe to knock him out. But his true arrival as a star in boxing, in 2003, was his 11th round knockout of Marco Antonio Barrera, one of the best Mexican fighters ever, in his debut at 126 lbs. Barrera could never figure out Pacquiao’s speed, power and straight left, and the result was that Pacquiao thrashed Barrera more soundly than he ever had been thrashed. Some have said since that Barrera was past his prime, but not long after, Barrera looked excellent in winning his third fight with rival Erik Morales, and both before the Pacquiao bout and after the Morales trilogy concluded, Barrera was himself considered one of 10 best pound-for-pound fighters. Pacquiao therefore beat at least a really good version of Barrera, and it’s hard to imagine even a young Barrera beating Pacquiao. Pacquiao collected the Ring magazine title belt with that win.
In his very next fight in 2004, Pacquiao fought the man both Barrera and Morales had diligently avoided: Crafty fellow Mexican Marquez. Pacquiao appeared to be en route to another steamrolling of a Mexican great when he broke Marquez’ nose and knocked him down three times in the 1st round. But this time, Marquez, a supreme counter-puncher, found a way to dodge some of Pacquiao’s jab/straight left rushes, then hit him when he was out of position. He fought back to a draw with Pacquiao, although a judge’s scoring error ultimately cost Pacquiao the win.
In 2005, Pacquiao began his own trilogy with Morales, at 130 lbs. Morales learned Marquez’ techniques well and won a tight decision over Marquez. Pacquiao had no choice but to adapt. He and trainer Freddie Roach, one of the best trainers in the sport, developed Pacquiao’s right hand into a weapon. They labeled this weapon “Manila Ice.” That’s right, they named a punch, basically, after Vanilla Ice. It worked. Pacquiao’s right hook, together with an improved focus on body punches, led Pacquiao to the only knockout win over Morales in Morales’ career, then repeated the feat for a second time in 2006. As with Barrera, some believe the wins over Morales came against a faded opponent, but Morales was still in 2005 one of the top-10 pound-for-pound boxers, and Pacquiao greatly accelerated Morales’ decline.
In March of 2008, Pacquiao and Marquez fought again, with another controversial outcome. An early-fight knockdown that cost Marquez a point deduction on the scorecards ended up being the difference in what amounted to a one-point win for Pacquiao. Many thought Pacquiao deserved the win; just as many if not more thought Marquez did. The win earned Pacquiao the 130-pound Ring magazine belt. Pacquiao in that fight showed improved boxing skills, but his win over Diaz this weekend in Pacquiao’s debut at 135 lbs. showed that he has become the complete package. Over the course of his wars with Mexico’s best, which after a 2007 win over Barrera in the rematch pushed his record against the trio to 5-1-1, Pacquiao displayed speed, power, heart and stamina, but he also was forced to learn on the job. Against Diaz, he showed excellent defense, a more diverse punch arsenal and better-than-ever balance, one of his historic weaknesses, in what amounted to an A+ performance.
Pacquiao also boasts wins over a number of tough or at least credible contenders, including Jorge Solis, Oscar Larios and Fahsan 3K Battery. Ring magazine recently named 1997-2004 the greatest era in featherweight (126 lbs.) history, which overlaps with some of Pacquiao’s best work. His record stands at 47-3-2, although his two early knockout losses can probably be attributed to fighting at too low a weight, since he has rarely even been stunned by a punch since.
His fights are routinely among the most entertaining in the sport, both because they put on display his awesome skills and his willingness to trade blows at unbelievable rates, creating lots of action.
Because of his dominance of Mexican fighters, Pacquiao’s unofficial nickname is “The Mexecutioner,” a nickname he says he doesn’t like, but he hasn’t fought anyone of non-Mexican heritage for three years, so clearly his promoters don’t mind the intense rivalry between Pacquiao fans and Mexican boxing fans. His most common nickname, however, is “Pac-Man.” Apparently, there’s someone out there calling him “The National Fist,” too.
Pacquiao stands 5′6″, has a corny mustache, a floppy ‘do, pupils that don’t line up precisely and an ever-present smile. But he manages to be intimidating because he is almost always freakishly cut, with muscles popping out in places you didn’t know they existed. He doesn’t seem capable of being intimidated himself. When he gets hit hard, he often pops his gloves together in a sign of appreciation of his opponent’s good punch, indicating a zeal for combat that is rare even in boxing. Despite his destructive power and battle-lust, he is an utter gentleman in the ring; he never abuses the rules, and after knocking out Diaz, Pacquiao went over to him to try to help him up.
At 29 and with nearly 14 years of insane combat on his resume, Pacquiao showed signs to some of slowing down beginning in 2007. His dominant win over Diaz suggests that it is more likely he has had trouble squeezing his muscular frame down to 130 pounds, or that outside-the-ring distractions diminished his performances. At lightweight, he could make his most compelling fights with old rival Marquez, still one of the top-5 pound-for-pound fighters today; fellow belt-holder Nate Campbell, himself a top-20 pound-for-pounder; or knockout artist Edwin Valero. He might make a super-fight soon with Ricky Hatton, the 140-pound champ who is almost as beloved in the U.K. as Pacquiao is in the Philippines. There has even been talk of Pacquiao moving up to 147 lbs. or thereabouts to fight Oscar De La Hoya, the reigning superstar in the sport.
Whatever route he goes, Pacquiao has become a huge attraction, and everyone wants a piece of him. His rematch with Marquez sold more pay-per-views than any fight ever below lightweight. He made $3 million for his fight with Diaz, and Diaz got by far a career-high payday of approximately $800,000, big money for a lighter-weight fighter. Fellow pound-for-pound top-10 fighters Miguel Cotto (welterweight) and Kelly Pavlik (middlweight champ, 160 lbs.) are, with Pacquiao, the next generation of major stars who are primed to take over for De La Hoya, the retired Mayweather, the slowing Hatton and aging Joe Calzaghe when they depart from the sport. It’s unclear how much longer Pacquiao will fight, although he certainly appears to be en route to staying around longer than De La Hoya et al. What’s clear is that the takeover has already begun.
Manny Pacquiao, The Man
Pacquiao is the very definition of “multimedia.” They made a movie about his life titled, simply, “Pacquiao: The Movie.” He’s taken to acting, too. And he recorded a hit song in his homeland. It is, quite frankly, awful. Check it out here, if you are a brave soul.
Mayweather may hype his business acumen, but Pacquiao has seriously diversified in the Philippines. He owns a local basketball team, for which he even played a few games. He has contracts with Nike and No Fear. He has a lottery outlet. He is a celebrity endorser par excellence; he appeared in a beer commercial with rival and friend Morales, but also has endorsed, per Wikipedia, “detergents, medicines, foods, garments, telecommunications” and more.
He has a few pals famous in the United States. He appeared in another beer commercial with Jet Li. In 2005, WWE’s The Undertaker walked to the ring with him. Just this weekend, Kevin Garnett and other members of the NBA championship Boston Celtics attended his fight, and the Philippines press reported extensively that the team’s “Big Three” came to hang out with him after his win. Pacquiao says he’s a huge fan of KG’s crew. Nike may or may not have had anything to do with this rendez-vous, but Pacquiao’s love of basketball is no sham.
Pacquiao’s run at a congressional seat in 2007, dented, for the first time, his unanimous support in his home country. I don’t pretend to understand politics in the Philippines, but suffice it to say that, sometimes, running for office can hurt a man’s popularity. He lost, although his boxing promoter, Bob Arum, hinted corruption may have been at play. The president of the Philippines has mentioned Pacquiao in State of the Union-style speeches. He continues to be active with the government and in politics, just months ago releasing marine turtles into a bay with a government agency after some recreational scuba diving. This year, he got his own stamp, the lone individual athlete ever to be so honored in his homeland. He also serves as a master sergeant in the reserves of the Philippines Army.
His personal life was once noted for some unsavory habits. Pacquiao is widely acknowledged to be a fan of cockfighting, late-night partying and gambling, and rumors of womanizing and a hospital entry with liver problems followed. Pacquiao has pulled the trigger on lawsuits against newspapers that have made the more salacious claims. He also was involved in a child support back-payment case and was the subject of a story about allegations of not paying taxes on a new Porsche. Like a lot of boxers, he has a hard-scrabble background, and dropped out of elementary school to sell doughnuts on the city streets to support his family and even did a turn as a stowaway to Manila in search of boxing glory.
Now, though, he’s reportedly reformed. Those claims have been greeted skeptically by some, although just as many have been convinced. He speaks of his love of Jesus. He earned a GED and has been taking college courses. His English, which he’s practiced diligently, gets better every time he fights. He said in a story that ran in March story that he gave up cockfighting for his wife, Jinkee. Interestingly, a Ring magazine story from around the same time about a visit to the Pacquiao compound features pictures of Pacquiao watching two roosters fight. (Another detail of the compound: Armed bodyguards, a fleet of vehicles and a boxing glove-shaped pool.) What is not in dispute is that Pacquiao is a serious do-gooder when it comes to helping people on the streets, or people who write him, or via government programs he inspires. In a country where poverty and political turmoil are endemic, Pacquiao represents both a symbolic relief from suffering and a tangible one.
Inside the ring and outside it, Pacquiao is one of boxing’s best and most engaging characters. I’ve spilled a lot of ink here trying to demonstrate it. If you’re not convinced of the former, do yourself a favor and find and watch the following fights: Pacquiao-Barrera I; Pacquiao-Marquez I & II; and Pacquiao-Morales I-III. They — like, increasingly, Pacquiao’s gentle-lilting English — speak for themselves.
This entry was posted
on Sunday, June 29th, 2008 at 9:26 pm and is filed under David Diaz, Oscar Larios, Erik Morales, Nate Campbell, Pancho Villa, Flash Elorde, Lehlohonolo Ledwaba, Fahsan 3K Battery, Jorge Solis, Marco Antonio Barrera, Edwin Valero, Miguel Cotto, Column, Oscar De La Hoya, Joe Calzaghe, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Juan Manuel Marquez, Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather.
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132 Responses to “Meet The New Best Boxer Alive — Manny Pacquiao”
June 29th, 2008 at 10:16 pm
GREAT article.
Thank you.
June 29th, 2008 at 10:18 pm
To Manny,
You’re my IDOL. I’m hoping to meet you in person.
Good luck in your next fight.
Ronnel
June 29th, 2008 at 10:20 pm
A fair sports analysis of Pacquiao as man and boxer. I wonder if the bad habits are still there. The conditioning he showed in his recent fights should negate any notion of unwholesome soirees happening. You failed to mention the caring and “statesmanlike” or sportmanslike side of Pacquiao’s personality. He did beer commercials with Morales, did not insult back when insulted by Marquez -in the Philipines - and the poignant gesture of almost begging the referee to stop the fight with the grossly bloodied Diaz, and the scene caught on TV camera when he tried to give a physical hand to lift Diaz up from the canvass. Thanks for the article anyways.
June 29th, 2008 at 10:22 pm
His song was indeed awful. No one cares in the Philippines though.
As for that “zeal for combat,” that’s very true. He reminds me of Son Goku. He just wants to fight. Destroying everyone in his path because of his “zeal in combat.”
June 29th, 2008 at 10:23 pm
You really hit the mark in your accounts of this greatest Asian boxer of all time, a great philanthropist,a patriot and a hero among all Filipino fans worlwide.
June 29th, 2008 at 10:28 pm
awsome research.
and did you know he is enlisted with the Army Reserve (Philippines), and has been honored as Master Sargeant?
June 29th, 2008 at 10:31 pm
Hell Yeah !!!! Bring on Hatton and Dela Hoya
June 29th, 2008 at 10:36 pm
best pound for pound, bar none. a fight with dela hoya would be great but i’m not sure it will be safe for pacman. dela hoya might just be too big and too powerful for him.
June 29th, 2008 at 10:39 pm
great article it show pacmans two faces….indeed he’s a phenomenon…
God bless u manny
June 29th, 2008 at 10:40 pm
There are only two things I want right now.
1.) Next fight should be with Ricky Hatton.
2.) He should be the cover of Fight Night Round 4.
June 29th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
hi there. a very good research indeed. we need more writers like you not only because of the extensive research you have made for pac man but because of the fairness of the comments and how you tackle the subject. I will be looking forward to reading your column in the future.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:02 pm
I really love this boxer for the fact that every time he has a fight he never breaks a single rule inside the ring….and I never heard him saying bad words to his opponents…that’s what a real boxer is all about……
June 29th, 2008 at 11:04 pm
Manny Pacquiao is afraid of me.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:07 pm
well written piece
June 29th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
Very well researched and a nice sum-up of the boxer and man.
He should fight Nate Campbell to add to his record, becoming a undisputed champion.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
In a country where poverty is a part of life, Manny Pacquiao’s story is awe inspiring and truly motivational.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:15 pm
What a wonderful article who”s writer took his time to research and gathered everything about the MAN who is dominnantly conquering the Boxing World….
June 29th, 2008 at 11:17 pm
I need money, can i fight anyone with a name or win lottery?
June 29th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
good day! I thought you were gonna stick with your views of pacquiao in your earlier article. Well, thanks for the recognition. This is a nice article. Keep writing, and by the way I was one of those who commented you badly when you wrote about the pound for pound list and I would like to ask for an apology. good luck.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
it is almost a vivid biography of Da Man…
thanx Tim…
June 29th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
He’s really that great! The awesome performance he showed to the world dictates and said that he is really the greatest Asian boxer at this very moment.
Mabuhay and Dios Mabalos “Pac-Man”
June 29th, 2008 at 11:26 pm
ive been watching ppv fights and non-ppv fights but t’was the first time I saw someone picked up his bloodied enemy after the battle.. indeed a true sportsman..
kodus to DD as well for being fare and square.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:27 pm
As of now, we dont care whoever the best out there but the Pacman accomplishment as of this time was a great fight have been mark victorious again and claim the boxing history, “the first asian fighter to win 4 championship betl in 4 weight division” and he is now the newly crowned WBC Lightweight Champion of the World.
Pacman has a lot more to prove, he is coming and going to fight whoverpromoter Bob Arum want to put inside the ring to fight the Pacman.
And I thank you Boss Tim for this very interesting article you have published in you column..
June 29th, 2008 at 11:29 pm
Thanks Tim for this wonderful article. Pacman is really a national pride. We, Pinoys, are very proud of him and his accomplishments in boxing. Moreover, not only Filipinos appreciate him as a boxer but also as an individual, like you do.
David (Diaz), you’re such a good sport, a true warrior and a gentleman. I salute you for that!
Pacman, congratulations and we hope that you continue giving honors to our beloved country, the PHILIPPINES.
MABUHAY ANG DUGONG FILIPINO!!!
Once again, thanks Tim. I look forward to reading your articles.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:35 pm
Good article Sir Tim:
Very informative indeed. This article is also a masterpiece like what Pres. Arroyo labelled on the latest performance of the Pacman.
Just a few thoughts, MP lost last elections merely because the people want him to focus on boxing and bring more honor to the country. People dont want him to merge his boxing with the dirty poitics in the Phils.
I’m certain that Pacman would win public office in 2010 after he hang up his glove and I will bet my 1 month salary for that.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:36 pm
Pacman is lucky because when I continue my career in boxing nomore Pacman will be heard in the boxing world. You will heard Hail the King. I am King Pharaoh.
Congratulations toPacman anyway…we will see in the next fight. I will train, I will divert my career into boxing, boxing in the computer games. King Pharaoh vs. Pacman. You will lost Pacman in early rounds.
Great column anyway. I’ll be your number one reader everyday.
Thank you!!!
June 29th, 2008 at 11:39 pm
Dear Tim,
I like your column. Well wrtten and very fair in your analysis. I’m glad you are now PACMAN fan.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:40 pm
pacman is the one committing legalized crime by bludgeoning his opponents to the canvas during those hours where the crime rate is zero! and those poor folks suffering from heart attacks from the excitement of his fights–thats homicide!
June 29th, 2008 at 11:46 pm
This is a nice article by Tim. Great to have pacman after golden boy…
June 29th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
Thanks for the good write-ups about Manny Pacquaio.
He is indeed a “National Hero” here in the Philippines.
His ‘low profile’ character made himself well-loved not only by the Filipinos but also by the people around the world. This time is indeed the “PACMANIA”…
June 29th, 2008 at 11:56 pm
Yeah, no to singing,showbusiness and politics.hehe.Its humilating!!!Its not your cup of tea pacman…
June 29th, 2008 at 11:57 pm
great column!!!
with his sometimes very colorful life outside the boxing ring, at least we all knew, pacman is human after all.
pacman, thanks again for bringing honor and pride to us pinoys!!! you’re the man!
June 29th, 2008 at 11:59 pm
Beautifuly written Tim.
Excellent article.
June 29th, 2008 at 11:59 pm
Nice article. Manny Pacman is good man, he hates nobody. He always pray before and after the fight a true christian. what can I cay more…
http://www.athomeph.com
June 30th, 2008 at 12:05 am
Regarding the election where Pacquiao ran for office, there is no corruption involved there. Pacquiao was soundly beaten by the incumbent lady congresswoman. Even Pacquiao did not contest the result. The Filipinos may adore him but they still know that politics is not for him. At least not yet.
June 30th, 2008 at 12:08 am
You perfectly described both the man and the boxer of Manny Pacquiao. PacMan is such nice boxer and a man indeed. One thing PacMan had, and ever since, for his being down-to-earth or being simple not even want to be compared with others even though he’s on top of them all. Congrats PacMan.
June 30th, 2008 at 12:10 am
excellent writing / great piece
June 30th, 2008 at 12:16 am
Manny is afraid of me..
June 30th, 2008 at 12:30 am
pacman inside the ring is a true gentleman…
pacman outside the ring is a colorful person
that”s what endears him to all filipinos
…he is an enigma… and we LOVE him…
June 30th, 2008 at 12:50 am
Manny Pacquiao is a real life “Rags-to-Riches” story. He is now one of the Greatest Boxers in the world (and possibly the one of the richest man in the Philippines) yet he remained very humble. This is the reason why many people love him regardless a boxing fan or not. He is a true inspiration to all, and for the poor boys who struggles very hard hard in finding a better life.
June 30th, 2008 at 12:52 am
Good article Tim, More power and keep up the good work. I wish Manny is truly a new man now because everyone is looking at him and he is reflecting an image for every Filipino abroad having a courageous character yet gentle, friendly and show good sportsmanship as he approached with hug to JMM and his coach/trainer regardless whoever declared as the winner. (he did this during the announcement of the decision by Michael buffer). Besides, during fights with JMM, Manny wants to touch glove as he did in the Morales fight when JMM committed a low blow but JMM did not response. A behavior of a boxer which i do not like. One factor to consider a Best Boxer is that what Pac-Man showed up.
June 30th, 2008 at 12:52 am
Congratulation PACMAN!! and Thanks for the article Tim Shark. I would like DAVID DIAZ to visit here in the Philippines and do a TV commercial with PACQUIAO for San Miguel Beer, Talk & Text (Mobile Network) and Alaxan (Pain reliever). DAVID will earn extra money for TV commercial and he will be surprise because he has a lot fans waiting for him here in the Philippines. There is a bonus He and his Family will have free trip and accommodation to the famous beach in EL Nido Palawan or Boracay. Mabuhay Pilipinas!
June 30th, 2008 at 12:57 am
Sorry Tim for your surname. Now I know this is right Tim Starks. PACMAN; HATTON IS NEXT!!!!
June 30th, 2008 at 1:02 am
At last, ESPN’s Dan Rafael has recognized Pacquiao as pound for pound king.
For me, that’s a mean feat for Pacquiao to be recognized by ESPN.
June 30th, 2008 at 1:14 am
now tim who is your #1 pound 4 pound king. don’t tell me its calzaghe.am i right that you are the #1 fan of joe so you always place him into the top of your pound 4 pound list.hehehehe..okay. all the people who love boxing knows the true pound 4 pound king manny ‘pacman’ pacquiao
June 30th, 2008 at 1:28 am
a masterpiece…
thanks tim…
June 30th, 2008 at 1:36 am
Dear Manny,
I am proud to be a Filipino. You give inspiration to all of us. Please don’t change and keep you feet on the ground. I wish I could watch your next fight in the ring live in person.
May God bless you always Manny and your family.
I am proud of you.
June 30th, 2008 at 1:41 am
Very good article about PACMAN… now MVN will be one of the few boxing websites i will include in my list. Keep going Tim and more power !!!
June 30th, 2008 at 1:42 am
to “King Pharaoh”:
i think word king and pharaoh are the same..
June 30th, 2008 at 1:57 am
Good write up. Good work!
June 30th, 2008 at 2:06 am
youre the man to all of the filipino peolemanny! you’re a hero…. god bless you all the time as well as youre family and i hope that you will help those filipino p[eople whp really need youre help! we love you!
June 30th, 2008 at 2:07 am
Your article about Manny Pacquiao is very great as it digs deeper on the true human aspects of him as a fighter, family man and a private citizen. It is a fair, sincere and honest presentation, free from any bias, made for the interest of the reading public and the whole world.
Please accept my hearfelt appreciation.
Best regards!!!
June 30th, 2008 at 2:09 am
The fights of Pacman are so exciting. No dull moment. Even replaying them over and over…simply entertaining. The downside is I have lost interest in most other boxers’ fights because they are relatively boring, more form than substance and most likely uneventful. His fellow boxers should aim to emulate him to promote boxing.
June 30th, 2008 at 2:17 am
Hi Tim..I know your a fair and square writer.You lived up to your promise in your last article that you will consider Pac man as the #1 P4P if he would beat Diaz.Anyway, really appreciate your comment bout Pacquiao.You know what.w/ regards to politics & hopefully Pacquiao would read this..we always pray for him to win in boxing but not in politics as long as he is still active in boxing,so that he could focus more on his boxing activities…When Pacman retires he could easily win by this time..maybe as a mayor or any postion as executive & not as a legislative member..THANKS TIM
June 30th, 2008 at 2:20 am
manny your the best!
June 30th, 2008 at 2:24 am
thank you for recognizing manny pacquiao as the best boxer alive…
what makes him different among other boxer is that- manny is a very simple guy inside & out, and that makes a lot of difference…
more power!
June 30th, 2008 at 2:25 am
Hi Tim…I had a promise to myself that I will always read your article..Hopefully some other guys out there would agree that Pacquiao should better fight the holder of the other 3 Belts, whether it is Campbell or whoever wins his next bout…
This is anothe legacy for Pacman..Correct me if im wrong, but I think it is only Mr. Hopkins do that kind of thing..
It is easier to consolidate all Titles/Belts if it is in the possession of only one person…
C’mmon PACQUIAO be the UNDISPUTED LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION OF THE WORLD…
After the legacy……
ofcourse MEGABUCKS FIGHT will soon follow…
Thanks TIM
June 30th, 2008 at 2:25 am
to you joan guzman, you are no match to me! he.he pacman.
June 30th, 2008 at 2:35 am
David Diaz,
Kudos to you my men..Although, im a Pacman Fan
I really appreciate what you did..you knew how to accept defeat.
Try to visit Phils. & you will be amazed that you also have legions of fans here..who knows you can have a commercial or showbiz career here..I could volunteer to be your TALENT MANAGER,hehe..
Sorry to say this, not unlike JMM who came here but until he left he still never appreciative to the Filipino’s hospitality…
JMM try to ask Morales…..
Thanks again, TIM
June 30th, 2008 at 2:36 am
Tim Stark youre the man!!! This made my day..Hahahahaha, wooooohhh!! your writings:
“Pacquiao stands 5′6″, has a corny mustache, a floppy ‘do, pupils that don’t line up precisely and an ever-present smile. But he manages to be intimidating because he is almost always freakishly cut, with muscles popping out in places you didn’t know they existed.” hahahaha!!!wooooohhhh!!!!
“Pacquiao is the very definition of “multimedia.” They made a movie about his life titled, simply, “Pacquiao: The Movie.” He’s taken to acting, too. And he recorded a hit song in his homeland. It is, quite frankly, awful. Check it out here, if you are a brave soul.” hahahaha!!!
“His English, which he’s practiced diligently, gets better every time he fights. He said in a story that ran in March story that he gave up cockfighting for his wife, Jinkee.” bwahahaha!!!!
June 30th, 2008 at 2:52 am
im a filipino fan of manny but got no clue of his personal life, much less his interesting character. im surprised how did tim manage to get all these best and bad bits. nonetheless, im now informed and thanks to tim! pacman’s success is simply a product of his inner drive to get out of poverty (same with all mexican boxers) and everything just came along. to me and to every filipino outhere, he’s an inspiration.
more power to you tim!
June 30th, 2008 at 2:59 am
nice article Sir Tim..you know what you are writing ..its not just bcoz.im a filipino & and an avid Pacman fan…Keep It Up Sir!..
June 30th, 2008 at 3:20 am
Pacquiao is so happy when he saw his favorite Boston Celtics players. In fairness to Manny he is currently studying college.
June 30th, 2008 at 3:21 am
pacman deserves to be the pound4pound king. He really deserves it. NO boxer today has matched the resume pacman has.
June 30th, 2008 at 3:23 am
Manny is going to break my face.
June 30th, 2008 at 3:25 am
hey y’all. i am from gensan. i just would like to say that manny is no saint. just an ordinary man with failings but also great attributes. i hear he will face valero next. well, good luck to him. may the best man win.
p.s. if only all boxers are as humble as david diaz. he was beaten but he retainerd his sense of humor plus he admitted that manny was the better man that night. compare his remarks to those of barrera and marquez after they were beaten by manny.
June 30th, 2008 at 3:35 am
a lot of boxing “experts” are touting campbell or casamayor as better than pacquiao. casamayor? pleassseee. just one fight removed from his bout with katsidis, a lot of the same “experts” were aghast at the ‘gift” given by the judges to casa in his bout against sta. cruz(i think that was his name). in fact a rematch was ordered by wbc because of the rather dubious decision. many thought casa lost that fight. and now he is “better” than pacman. utang na loob.
June 30th, 2008 at 3:36 am
great article by a great writer about the greatest boxer. congratulations pacman and more power tim!!
June 30th, 2008 at 3:39 am
I’ve been a Pacquiao fan since ‘97. I watched him fight wildly on Blow by Blow (a local Boxing tv show here in PH). I watched him fall down on his first loss after a hard lucky shot to the abdomen. I also watched him KO’ed that Thai WBC flyweight champ - his first WBC belt. And there are many more exciting fights after that… And now, he is the WBC Lightweight champ! wow! what a journey it has been for him… Yet, he is still hungry for more! This is a very nice article. This a good summary of Pacman’s life and career. The author may be right - Manny Pacquiao is the new best boxer alive at this point in time. At least, in my point of view.
June 30th, 2008 at 3:53 am
hi Tim,
My 1st time to read an article of yours and I truly am amazed with what I saw. Coming from a person from outside the Philippines, you have done a great job! no biases whatsoever,
well researched, and without a personal agenda. We Filipinos know how to appreciate things,places,events and most espclly, persons with great conviction. It is something when a person says his thougths and feelings on a straightforward manner but it is everything when a person knows how to retract and embrace the truth. I admire you Tim for being different from Pedro THE WHO Fernandez who makes a living out of criticizing PACMAN and provoking PAC fans to no end. Thanks for showing the readers who’s the real manny. Again, thanks for the article.
PARTING SHOT: A GOOD BOXER IS A GOOD BOXER. A GOOD PERSON IS DIFFERENT… THANK GOD, OUR MANNY PAQUIAO PERSONIFIES BOTH! WHAT A RARE BREED! MABUHAY!
June 30th, 2008 at 3:59 am
Thanks for your story you can make an inspirational
book about Manny from Rags to Riches
June 30th, 2008 at 4:16 am
write-ups like this ,makes even a lazy butt
to be very busy in reading ,for a change.
Very good indeed and thanks!It’s a universal feeling in any good event, to feel very happy.
June 30th, 2008 at 4:59 am
Well researched Tim. Just one little thing I’m certain is not true though, regarding Arum’s hint that maybe Pacquiao lost his candidacy due to political corruption. No question Philippines is corrupt especially politically. But he lost because people want him to focus on boxing… as long as he is on his boxing peak. Mark my word, I would not be surprised if he becomes a congressman or mayor at the very least, in the future … He’s BIG. HE COULD EVEN BECOME THE PRESIDENT. It’s not because most Filipinos are uneducated. It’s because Pacquiao’s life is an open book and he has got a good heart (and common sense). It’s all that matters. It’s way better than a cunning, corrupt, traditional politician who pervades every level of our government today.
June 30th, 2008 at 5:30 am
At of this point..,pacquiao, inarguably speakin…is the best boxer in the planet…at age 29..he accomplished what other good boxers cant achieve…an exemplary boxing resume..,,beating legends in boxing..one by one…is not an easy task..beating reigning world champion one by one is not an easy task..but look at the MAN..? u cant just overlooked what a gifted ,,a phenom..this boxer has….and we are all should be thankful we live in the era where we are a witness to the greatness of this MAN……Manny”Pacman”Pacquiao…….
June 30th, 2008 at 6:17 am
I love writers like Tim who makes research first before writing anything.
Thanks for your respect to Manny and to his loyal fans.
Mabuhay si Manny! Mabuhay din si TIim!
June 30th, 2008 at 6:18 am
What a nice article Don Rafael,
Truly, Pacman is greatest boxer of our time. For Valero, pacman is too much for him. Better try to beat Marquez first before you line up yourself to pacman.
June 30th, 2008 at 6:21 am
Dear Tim,
We love you man! Thanks for appreciating Manny’s effort.
Your an excellent author/writer who makes intensive research first before writing anything. Some writers base on their feelings. But you are different! you write base on facts that’s why we admire you.
Mabuhay si Manny! Mabuhay din si Tim
June 30th, 2008 at 6:21 am
Sorry Tim,
A mistake to mention your right good name…
What a nice article Tim
June 30th, 2008 at 6:38 am
Very nice article, this will be one of those stories that will go down to the annals of boxing history re-telling the greatness and the legend of Manny Pacquiao
June 30th, 2008 at 6:56 am
Amen!
June 30th, 2008 at 7:04 am
I seldom read sports column from the first line to the last but this one is so informative, I learned more of the life of Pacman thru’ the article. Truely, Pacman has the heart of the true bloodied, typical Filipino, down to earth, family centered and God fearing. I admire him a lot for this. Manny made a lot of Filipino guys cry everytime he fights- cry for joy. Inspite of the problems our country is facing, the bad image of the politicians, insurgency problems, there’s still a true bloodied Filipino standing. We’re proud of you manny. I appreciate this unbiased, comprehensive and intellectual article of you Tim…mabuhay ka!
June 30th, 2008 at 7:10 am
your the man
June 30th, 2008 at 7:10 am
no, he really lost fair and square in the last election. it was an ill-advised move to run for public office and it resulted to one of his few debacles. filipinos are starting to learn from their experience with previous popular personalities who won.
June 30th, 2008 at 7:11 am
Nice article!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Four thumbs up!!!!!
June 30th, 2008 at 7:57 am
A perfect portrait of Pacquiao the man and fighter.
Great article both for those who are just getting to know of him, and for those who already do.
June 30th, 2008 at 8:02 am
At a time of political turmoil, natural calamaties and uncertainties for the country’s economic future, this monumental achievement of the pride of General Santos and of the Philippines comes like a breath of fresh air for all of us Filipinos. Thanks Manny for this gift of national pride you have givens us. And thanks Tim for recognizing this feat unsurpassed by any asian for the time being.
June 30th, 2008 at 8:02 am
nice! well said! the best article i read about pacman!
June 30th, 2008 at 8:15 am
hmmm. i hope we can still love tim from good times to bad (write-ups) times for manny…all I know is Tim is Honest and sensible writer…more power Tim
June 30th, 2008 at 9:00 am
manny is undeniably a good man
the relatives of a sunken ferry here in the phillippines, watched his diaz fight last sunday here in a waiting center brought up for missing person, and its funny to watched.. becuz at that very short time.. they smiled and.. i think.. they…got a short relief on thier agony, manny give them.. hope…
his our hero.. here… when ever he fights.. every filipino in every walk of life stop and just watched him on television.. on the cinemas.. and on arenas.
June 30th, 2008 at 9:23 am
Hi Tim,
Yeah, good article. He is an inspiration isn’t he? A true gentleman in the ring…Talented, simple, and down to earth. Hope he leaves his bad vices behind for good.
Wish we could do something with his hair and mustache though….LOL
June 30th, 2008 at 10:09 am
valero nor guzman wont stand a chance with Pacman. I suggest valero to back out now before your brain will be damage. for guzman, beat campbell first. Pacman is not afraid you. You should prove first you are a great boxer.
June 30th, 2008 at 10:13 am
Manny Pacquiao… the next Greatest fighter to Muhammad Ali in all senses of the word. As a significant cultural hero and boxing icon, he is without any doubt the Greatest in this generation. All in all Pacman is a very modest professional athlete with a great attitude, which is rare for a person with his accomplishments.
Manny never looked so good this past Saturday. He reminded me of Ali in the ring. His speed, power and footwork were incredible compared to Diaz.
Manny Pacquiao fights with an entire country on his shoulders and wins with class.
June 30th, 2008 at 10:14 am
nice article… good job sir tim……Manny is a good man down to earth……that’s why filipinos love him not only filipinos….. he’s our future president of the philippines!…..
June 30th, 2008 at 10:14 am
[…] Meet The New Best Boxer Alive — Manny Pacquiao I found this interesting post from Tim Starks of MVN.com. I really like this post and I hope you’ll like it too. The full post can be find HERE: […]
June 30th, 2008 at 10:34 am
Tim,
This is for Larry Merchant, during the first & 2nd Pacquiao-Marquez fight I don’t know and I could not believe why Larry commented that he had Marquez winning both fights. He must be watching with both eyes closed and in his bias subconscious he already had Marquez as the winner before the fight started. WHAT NOW LARRY MERCHANT? I am not a boxer but I am challenging Larry to a fist fight with my left hand tied to my side and like Manny destroying all the mexican legend I will destroy him too with one hand. But I did not say that my leg kicks will >>>lights out for you Larry! Why do this man refuse to accept the greatness of Manny and choose to give his bias comments on national TV.
June 30th, 2008 at 10:37 am
this has to be one of the most complete stories ive read on pacquiao. it’s stories like these that keep boxing interest alive
June 30th, 2008 at 10:38 am
hi tim nice article,
i just hope that the next fight of manny is ricky hatton or amir khan.. coz its been long time since i watch his fight live that was almost 16 yrs ago streetfight boxing,one of the fiesta in davao, but at that time almost no one would fight him if they know already who he is! so if pacquiao will fight here in london me,my wife and all the member of padyak pinoy uk would march to wembly or any stydium here in england with the philippine flag to chr for manny long live manny,the filipino around the world and to you tim god bless thank you.
June 30th, 2008 at 10:49 am
good day to you sir, thanks for the nice article i do love pacqiuao as a person as well as a boxer he did everything he could to lift up his country with pride and joy…for me he’s such a phenomenon person and a future hall of famer nobody has achieve what he had done to his country ,thats why he so loved by so many people because of his humbleness but one thing i dont like about him is his alwayskeeping in touch with so many corrupt politicians which we all know that they’re only using his popularity for their on sake as you’ve seen in the last election which he run and lost my acvise for him is wake up !!!! keep focuse on boxing coz thats how you become popular and majority of us will stand by you leave the politics away from you if you want to help there are plenty of ways to do it you can use your politcian friends to help you endorsing good quality project dont let your politician friends use you…im proud of you ….joey
June 30th, 2008 at 10:59 am
Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao has an inspiring story of his life, that is why he is loved by Filipinos. He is a very poor boy who struggles everyday and now he is successful and rich. At a very young age 29 he achieved it, we saw it in our own eyes. One thing very important he never forgot to thank GOD for the gift - a very religious man. In Gensan (his province) majority of the people pray for him during the fight. His mother pray the Novena and the Rosary.
During his fights, he includes for his preparation his countrymen by asking them to pray for him. He is the inspiration and pride of Phils.
June 30th, 2008 at 11:08 am
Welcome!
June 30th, 2008 at 11:15 am
great article as always tim, i see you’re getting a lot of love from my fellow filipinos for a change.
June 30th, 2008 at 11:49 am
Im sorry Manny but Im gonna kick your ass in the ring! Stop avoiding me and fight like a man. If you are truly a national pride, come and accept my challenge. I will fight you even its not a high-paid event. I will be moving up now to Lightweight. Like you, I no longer fit in 130lbs. I feel stronger in Lightweight class, too. If you want to make people happy because of your exciting fight, I will help you grant their wish. I will give you the best fight you want. I am certain, people will excite most when we clash inside the ring. I’m looking forward to your answer.
El Inca
June 30th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Tim, one thing you forgot to mention about Pacquiao …
“YOU NEED TO USE BOTH FIST SIMULTANEOUSLY IF YOU WANT PACQUIAO TO TASTE THE CANVAS. JUST LIKE USING A PAIR OF CYMBALS AND CLASH IT TO PACQUIAO’S HEAD…. YOU CANT BEAT PACMAN WITH ONE FIST AT A TIME … MAKE HE’S FACE A VOLLEYBALL AND USE BOTH FIST TO STRIKE IT … THAT WAY MAKES HIM FAIL TO BEAT THE 8 COUNT … “
June 30th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
Wow. This is what they call balanced views. Great!
June 30th, 2008 at 12:12 pm
Well, I guess I need to thank everyone here at some point, right? Most appreciated for the kind words. I wish some of you would consider me “objective” whether I say good or bad things about Pacquiao, but I suppose it’s too much to ask. I’ll take your kind words with gratefulness.
June 30th, 2008 at 12:14 pm
Tim,
Great article here. really fair analysis.
Many of us Filipinos like Manny Pacquiao.
He can even walk in a rebel territories without harm here in PI.
Mabuhay ka Manny! God Bless you Always.
Tim, a very great article you wrote here.
Laban PACMAN…
June 30th, 2008 at 12:37 pm
pacquiao sucks!!!! he really is!! call me here to find out why suckers!! +1 208 336 6428
June 30th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
uuuuuuuuhhhhmmmm.
June 30th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Nice Article very well written. I almost went in tears reading it because you are so accurate on everything. I also believe he is the best boxer in the planet and the most humble one too. Promote Pacquaio vs Mayweather at 140lbs. FIGHT OF THE CENTURY!!!!
June 30th, 2008 at 12:55 pm
I´m more famous than Pacquaio.
June 30th, 2008 at 1:14 pm
NEXT FIGHT: PACMAN VS IRON MAN , mabuhay manny!!mabuhay ang FILIPINO!!!
June 30th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
Just like boxing, there will always be two sides to the ring.
in life - two sides always co-exist: up and down, good and bad, top and botton, start and finish..
This just shows how great your article is: it attracts those who support and oppose it.
Kudos to you! But indeed, one thing will not be contested:
PACQUIAO has joined the ranks of what we refer to as ‘The BEST!’
June 30th, 2008 at 4:30 pm
you guys suck!!!!!
June 30th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
No-one Guzman says:
June 30th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
tim,
yo! i really appreciate your effort here..on top of that
for giving the #1 spot, p4p for the real man that deserves..i bow down and kiss the canvas for you.
pac bro,
mission accomplished!! it’s up to you to fullfill your helping hands to those who deeply in need … let it be between you and God now..not between you and arum or whatever..
david,
your’re the first boxer i saw who humbly accepts defeat graciously..you’re one of the few out there..
keep it up yo, for you will be blessed on your next
blow.
to hatton, valero..whoever,
i’m suggesting you to hire mr. david as your spar’ng. partner.. but this time let him hammer down your
chin to make it much, much more stronger than his.
June 30th, 2008 at 7:08 pm
Hi Tim, very nice write-up!
Manny Pacquiao indeed lifted our spirits, I am from GenSan, an avid fan of MP, since viewing in Lagao gym had been initiated, I made it a point not to miss bringing my family to watch boxing. We enjoyed it a lot, but over and above the enjoyment I make it a point for my two sons to draw valuable lessons from the fight which is very being evident when MP fights. He is such one of a kind, displaying such grace in a such a brutal sport… In case you would want to add, MP’s brother Ruel is a Barangay Captain in Brgy. Apopong, GenSan., MP provided for the heavy equipments need of the Barangay, just to maintain and improve the road condition, something that the city local government can’t immediately provide.
Thanks Manny you lifted our spirit
June 30th, 2008 at 7:38 pm
will it is nice to read this column that tells the life of manny how he evolve from poverty in the Philippines to an icon in the world stage, that he is one in a million and gives the filipinos an inspiration coz this country needs someone to cheer about amids this never ending problem that this country’s facing about, someone who can count on as a national hero………. so in behalf of the filipinos or on behalf of manny’s fans, thanks tim
June 30th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
fair article and good research. About Manny, I think he is not only great fighter inside the ring but also great and helpful man. He promised to help his country men who are being smashed by typhoon Frank. Passenger Ship sunk in the sea and lots of family are homeless right now because of that typhoon. I am sure Manny will not close his hand to help them. He is always there to help the people. That is why he is called the People’s Champ. Some may beat Pac-Man in the ring but not the people’s heart.
June 30th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
he lost the congressional election because we love him. we don’t want him to be a politician. we hate politicians.
June 30th, 2008 at 9:02 pm
great article dude. keep it up..
Mabuhay ka “Manny Pacquiao”.
110 respondents in just 2 days. wow..
June 30th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
keep up the good work,dude.
mabuhay ang filipino
cngrts to our national treasure manny pacquiao
June 30th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
[…] Meet The New Best Boxer Alive — Manny Pacquiao By Tim Starks, Most Valuable Network, Mon, 30 Jun 2008 […]
July 1st, 2008 at 3:09 am
Pacman! i will make you my 25th KO!
July 1st, 2008 at 3:11 am
wtf! he’s mine!
July 1st, 2008 at 3:34 am
pacman will make valero lie on he ring
July 1st, 2008 at 7:58 am
i want to see pacman vs dinamita marquez III to conclude the debate. some say pacman win the first fight, and some say marquez win the second fight. so to do that we have manny pacquiao vs juan manuel marquez. for debate will be over.
July 1st, 2008 at 11:28 am
Excellent article!!! Keep up the excellent work, Tim. You’re the man of the hour, same as the PACMAN, the world’s greatest boxer today!!!!!!!
July 1st, 2008 at 12:40 pm
When MP has 3 wins and no loss, I’ve prophesied a word for him that he will be a great champion someday and uncomparable. Im not a fortune teller nor a prophet but simply fun of boxing.
July 2nd, 2008 at 8:18 pm
Manny will become President? Please! I am a Pacfan all throughout, but if Manny Pacquiao becomes president of our country, I will be so ashamed that I am a Filipino. I can stomach him being a congressman or mayor. But presidency? I dont’ think so. Not even for a senator. I wrote this because people who elected him as a politician will only use him because of his money and popularity. Especially the people who lines up in his house in Mindanao.
I wonder if those people that he’s helping right now will say bad words in the future when Manny Pacquiao stops helping them. But I am sure many of them will, because many of them are stupid and are only gold diggers. Many years from now, people will start staying away from Pacquiao. Look what happened to Rolando Navarrete. He will suffer the same fate if he don’t prioritize the important things in his life. As much as I hate it (because I am a Filipino), most Filipino people are double-faced. They’ll go near you if you’re famous and you have money, but take those away and they too will stay away from you. Plastics…
July 3rd, 2008 at 2:06 am
[…] Meet the New Best Boxer Alive — Manny Pacquiao By Tim Starks, Most Valuable Network […]
July 4th, 2008 at 1:09 am
[…] Meet the New Best Boxer Alive — Manny Pacquiao By Tim Starks, Most Valuable Network […]
July 6th, 2008 at 4:43 pm
Without a doubt,
Manny Pacquiao is one of the best (fighters) boxers that have graced the ring. A true gentleman and beloved Filipino. Continue to pursue your dreams and continue to give thanks to God and be blessed even more.
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