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Will Manny Pacquiao’s reach for greatness exceed his grasp?
By Ace Freeman (14-Nov-2009)

FightFan.com’s Ace Freeman examines Manny Pacquiao’s pending challenge for Miguel Cotto’s WBO welterweight title and looks at the signifigance the fight presents for the pound-for-pound king as he stands on the verge of capturing a title in an unprecedented and record setting seventh weight class.

Photo: Joe Bruiser

What goes up must eventually come down. It’s an old adage but it’s relevance persists for good reason. In 2009 Manny Pacquiao sits firmly atop the world of boxing. How he got there is the stuff that legends are made of. After bursting on to the scene in 2003 with a sudden and emphatic stoppage over the legendary Marco Antonio Barrera, it was clear the young Filipino fighter was something special. Just how special he would soon become is something no one saw coming.

Fast forward six years later and we sit on the verge of Pacquiao (a former flyweight) fighting a formidable welterweight champion ten divisions north of where he started his career. Before we look at the intangibles of the bout itself, it’s worth pausing to examine the very significance of the fight happening in the first place.

Greatness is a term thrown around loosely in the sporting world. Without the passage of time and room for context, it’s true meaning is fleeting. There are however special cases where it’s quite evident that something special is happening right before our eyes.

Muhammad Ali comes to mind as he was in a position to defy expectations several times on the biggest stage and did so in each instance with a prophetic foresight.

Manny Pacquiao might not share Ali’s brash self assuredness but his penchant for reaching beyond what seems fathomable to most of us who watch him has elevated his status beyond the confines of his sport.

Star athletes such as Tiger Woods and Kobe Bryant go out of their way to watch the Filipino terror in action. Movie stars flock to Pacquiao’s Hollywood gym incognito and are humbled at the mere sight of champion in training.

Although boxing has slipped into the background of the collective sporting consciousness in recent decades, it still holds a degree of awe that is contrasted nicely by these mega stars flocking to catch a glimpse of the pound-for-pound king. At the end of the day their games or stories provide a safety net that champions of the ring are not afforded.

Boxers are indeed modern day gladiators who walk to the ring with no one or nothing to stand with them as they fight for glory with their bodies, putting their personal safety on the line.

Future hall-of-famer James Toney captured this sentiment perfectly when he once said “People play basketball and football… you don’t play boxing.”

Indeed, there is a prestige and luster that the “Sweet Science” carries that dates back a hundred years and beyond. As we sit here in the autumn of 2009 the more things change the more they stay the same.

Manny Pacquiao is arguably the biggest sporting star in all of Asia and his notoriety in North America is increasing with each fight he takes.

While his blazing hands and violent knockout power are a big part of that, it is only an aside to his overall story. For several years now he has followed up each seemingly monumental feat that he accomplishes by outdoing himself at every turn.

With each historic win he racks up against top opposition, his next move always seems to be seeking out a bigger challenge, literally and figuratively.

Two years ago I stood in the Wild Card Boxing Club speaking with Pacquiao’s renowned head trainer Freddie Roach. I distinctly remember asking the ace trainer if the rumors of Pacquiao moving upward of ten to fifteen pounds to challenge the likes of Ricky Hatton and Oscar De La Hoya were “crazy talk”.

“No, it’s real,” Roach said assuredly. This was a few years removed from the now famous trainer essentially picking the rounds in which Manny would secure his stoppage victories over the aforementioned fighters.

What a ride it’s been.

I distinctly remember pondering one year ago this month how Pacquiao’s rise to prominence appeared likely to end with the fists of a much larger Oscar De La Hoya. Like many Fight Fans, I thought Pacquiao was biting off more than he could chew.

Yet Pacquiao outclassed Oscar De La Hoya in every sense of the word. His speed and defensive prowess befuddled his larger foe and his lightning fast hands bruised his bewildered opponent like an over ripened banana.

Several months later, the former flyweight nearly knocked world light welterweight champion Ricky Hatton unconscious with a single fight-stopping blow.

Photo: Chris Farina / Top Rank

Now it is WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto who looms largely over the ‘Pacman’ as the two prepare to face off Nov. 14. In photos of the two standing face to face it’s clear that Cotto is cut from a larger cloth than Pacquiao. His broader shoulders and thicker torso prop up his larger head which has a tendency to snarl like a bull when he glares at an opponent in a stare-down.

Yet Manny Pacquiao stands humbly before him and the accompanying cameras, only offering the promise to anyone who will listen that he will “try his best to make the people happy.”

After capturing the world light welterweight title earlier this year there were a lot of options for Pacquiao. As one of the biggest breadwinners in all of boxing he was in the fortunate position of being able to pick just about any opponent in the sport and they would have jumped at the opportunity to fight him for the accompanying payday.

It is this lofty position that has seen one of Pacquiao’s top rivals in Floyd Mayweather Jr. draw so much contempt from a sizable contingent of boxing fans.

Clearly Pacquiao’s equal in the departments of athleticism and boxing prowess, Mayweather is as calculated with his risk management in choosing his opponents as he is with his defensive style inside the ring. While he has fought much better opposition than many of his critics give him credit for, he has clearly not been as ambitious as the smaller Pacquiao.

Miguel Cotto has long been touted as a potential opponent for Mayweather Jr., and while the opportunity has not presented itself on the silver platter the Michigan fighter has become accustomed to, it’s a fight that Manny Pacquiao went out of his way to seek.

Eying his biggest and strongest opponent yet, Pacquiao is currently in the midst of wrapping up training for the bout and is going in looking for the fight that has seemingly alluded him for many years now.

If we look back at each of his biggest contests to date, we see a familiar instance of Pacquiao clasping his gloves together above his head inviting his opponent to trade punches with him. In each case, we have seen any opposing fighter who has engaged him either knocked out, or forced to change their approach to avoid standing and fighting with the Filipino charge.

Even against fighters 140 pounds or bigger we have not yet seen Pacquiao met head on with a fighter willing (or able) to take his punches to trade back with their own.

Is Miguel Cotto this fighter? Is the speed, strength, and fluidity of the Puerto Rican champion’s punches enough that they will finally deter the fighting spirit of Manny Pacquiao?

Can Miguel Cotto meet Manny Pacquiao head on to trade punches and be the first fighter to cause the smaller man to yield?

Freddie Roach contends that Cotto will wisely begin their upcoming fight by moving away from Pacquiao.

Astounding if true, as one would think that sooner or later, the higher Pacquiao goes in weight there will finally come a time where he meets his match in regards to seeking a fire fight.

Pacquiao’s boxing ability has improved in recent years and it is now at the point where it may just carry him through should this momentous event finally occur. Until it does, we will continue to watch with intrigue.

It’s been a captivating rise to prominence for Pacquiao and many who are emotionally invested in his story watch each budding fight with a creeping feeling of doubt. That is only natural when watching someone continuously attempting to defy the odds.

A Fight Fan at heart, this writer finds himself with butterflies in his stomach each time the opening bell rings in a Manny Pacquiao bout. However, something feels different with this fight. Even with the prospect of defeat looming larger than it ever has, there is now a shadow casted from Pacquiao that is too big to ignore.

As the famous poet Robert Browning once so eloquently said… “Ah, but a man’s reach should exceed his grasp, or what’s a heaven for?”

In Manny Pacquiao’s case true greatness has already been achieved. At some point he may eventually be beaten by a bigger man… but never by a better man.

93 Responses to “Will Manny Pacquiao’s reach for greatness exceed his grasp?”

Disclaimer: FightFan.com will NOT be held responsible for ANY of the content appearing in the following discussion, but will do it's best ensure that the discussion stays relevant, beneficial, and acceptable to the readers of this site.

floydfan Says:

im i the only one who new pacquiao would whip delahoya? good article btw
November 1st, 2009 at 3:42 pm
Anonymous Says:

cotto by way of knock out!!!
November 1st, 2009 at 3:54 pm
beeboktech Says:

i love the article. it has a way of whetting my appetite. it adds excitement and drama. it makes the upcoming match extra special.
November 1st, 2009 at 5:17 pm
Rey Alfred Says:

“At some point he may eventually be beaten by a bigger man… but never by a better man”. Very much true… he may be great but he is beatable. Pacquiao as of the moment is at his prime. It is nice to know that as great as he is, he never settles for a “title defense”, he choose rather to be a challenger of greater oppositions… Unlike the “other” guy who claims to be best, by devouring lightweights… literally beating the smaller guy… claiming to be the best.
November 1st, 2009 at 5:31 pm
Rocky Says:

Well said. Like gravity anything that goes up should subsequently goes down. Let us enjoy the greatness while it last. Definitely fans do not like to watch boxers who just fight for money, choose a weaker opponent to fight and does not care what the fans want…. ask mayweather he knows the answer by heart.
November 1st, 2009 at 5:35 pm
Anon Says:

“At some point he may eventually be beaten by a bigger man… but never by a better man.” – Nice words. Anyone from Diaz is bigger than Pac. They are all bonuses.
November 1st, 2009 at 5:54 pm
dyolens Says:

nice one Ace! very well said.
November 1st, 2009 at 6:00 pm
kulafungi Says:

hey floydfan, stop bragging with your predictios. you’re nothing but a false prophet.
November 1st, 2009 at 6:06 pm
kulafungi Says:

floydfan. nobody believes you here. stop your comments.
November 1st, 2009 at 6:08 pm
iloveamerica Says:

beware of the the killer smile and his 1 inch punch. he is an epitome of an ultimate warrior !!!
November 1st, 2009 at 6:11 pm
blanche_boy Says:

nice article! pacquiao has already achieved more than of what he’s expected of. he surpassed fighters of this era, claiming of their greatness. may pacquiao’s achievements and character be the new standard of the sport. i think pacquiao will continue to surprise us and entertain us with 3 more fights left in his career including this one on november 14! God bless you, Pacman!
November 1st, 2009 at 6:23 pm
ramone Says:

cant wait for nov.14
November 1st, 2009 at 6:28 pm
mekiko Says:

great job mr.writer, you nailed it as it should be, the importance of this fight in our sport,.. finally someone who is unbias who can give real credit not just who wins this and that blah blah blah bigger than him, waaay faster and all this crap… and yes eventually.. he’l reach his peak.. and goes down. but i have utmost respect to those who seeks greater length. lets just enjoy how his journey will unfold, a great fighter is comming to an end.. 2 more fights and he is done.. will a former flyweight suceed in his remaining bouts?? i dont know.. what i know is i am honored im in his era.. just like i wish i was with rocky marciano’s days.. keep it up mr.writer
November 1st, 2009 at 6:38 pm
X Says:

Well written article. Kudos to the writer.
November 1st, 2009 at 6:41 pm
X Says:

Well written article. No hint of bias on it. Kudos to the writer.
November 1st, 2009 at 6:43 pm
lanz Says:

nice article… when does mayweather learn what the word greatness meant.
November 1st, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Edgar A. de Dios Says:

Let’s pray hard that Pacquiao will continue to entertain us all. We pray that we will be witnesses to history unfolding before our very eyes with his last few remaining fights prior to retirement. GO, MANNY, GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 1st, 2009 at 6:55 pm
jimmy Says:

wow , nice article good job mr. writer. Keep it up
November 1st, 2009 at 7:08 pm
AndreF Says:

Excellent writing Mr. Freeman!
November 1st, 2009 at 7:10 pm
happy guy Says:

Mr. Ace Freeman,

Never read such excellent write-up in the sports of boxing before.

You really made some very good cases-in-point in your article.

I should say, you impressed me with the kind of writing you offer to your readers especially to pacman fans like me.

The handspeed and quick darting of pacman in and out coupled with his side to side footwork will be the key to his victory but the power on his both hands will go for the kill. Cotto will be boggled by his tenacity and would yield after a gruesome 15 minute battle.

As some sportswriter and boxing enthusiasts predictions, Cotto will be knock out within 5 rounds.

Thanks.

happy guy
November 1st, 2009 at 7:24 pm
myks02 Says:

Well written article! Your article is an “Ace” man! Unbiased & adds excitement to the upcoming fight!
November 1st, 2009 at 7:26 pm
Ryan Says:

Very well said. Sooner or later he (Pacquiao) may be defeated but his greatness has already been earned. Keep em coming…
November 1st, 2009 at 7:31 pm
jojo Says:

What a beautiful piece for the Filipino Phenom! May God Bless Manny Pacquiao for his quest of immortality. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas, mabuhay ang mga Pilipino!
November 1st, 2009 at 7:43 pm
ara mina Says:

i know you hate me ace…

but nice article.
November 1st, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Adoremus (Pinoy) Says:

Those who believe without a doubt are obviously the lucky ones that have been enjoying the most with the coming of another boxing great. Enjoy it while you can because the PacMan has about just another couple of fights left before hanging those “Excalibur” gloves. One possible tip to enjoy the man, forget that he’s not an American.
November 1st, 2009 at 7:54 pm
mahiwagangmanok Says:

Ace,

This has got to be the best article that I have had the pleasure of reading. Hats-off to you. Your writing skills really take a reader into another world.
November 1st, 2009 at 8:01 pm
betski Says:

nice article!!
November 1st, 2009 at 8:03 pm
sil Says:

I love this article, unlike other articles which obviously sounds a hate message for Pacquiao, this shows what a real writer can do in a very professional way..well said Mr.Freeman!!

well I also think that Pacquaio already achieved everything he wants in boxing his legacy, fame and wealth are already unimaginable, but when it comes to giving happiness to his poor people by winning in a boxing match are still in his heart and by that the Filipinos are once again proud of themselves.
November 1st, 2009 at 8:05 pm
joe Says:

you wish that finally the p4p champ to lose to somebody and crown your mayweather number 1 again, cmon floyd last fighters to give him a hard time are delahoya and hatton yes these are two great fighters…
November 1st, 2009 at 8:18 pm
sotyx Says:

Manny will not lost in this fight yet maybe, in his fourth fight after this.
November 1st, 2009 at 8:26 pm
ZHUNDE Says:

FloydJr said “Philippines got a the best enhancement drugs” – it’s his new way of avoiding the Pacman. Get real dude! Only the fool will believe what you are saying. You are just insulting the Technical Members of the boxing world for saying that. Fight the best not the hand-picked, easier and smaller opponent and then claiming you are the best! What a Joke! Now I believe that Pacman will swarm you all the way down. If you really believe that you are the best in the best in the world, then eat this… actions speaks louder than your fucking words.
November 1st, 2009 at 8:35 pm
ray Says:

…you made my heart beat just by reading this… nice article man! you just know how to hit the nail…!!
November 1st, 2009 at 8:38 pm
raskolnik Says:

nice article, mr. freeman. this is good-old sports writing at its best, save for a few awkward cliches. if only there were more of your kind in the industry.
November 1st, 2009 at 8:46 pm
nayweather Says:

Even if Pacquiao loses in his fight against cotto, he will still achieve what mayweather did not. Boxing isnt always about winning. Sometimes it is about testing the limits of oneself. Finding out where one’s capabilities peak. Mayweather by picking opponents will go down in histosy as the fighter with no single loss but with no great victory as well.
November 1st, 2009 at 9:04 pm
tukmol Says:

nice one….we’ll see what happens come fight night!!!!damn can’t wait!!!!
November 1st, 2009 at 9:19 pm
joebentvice Says:

i love your last line, Freeman – “he may eventually be beaten by a bigger man, but not by a better man.”

pacman has achieved greatness, we are just waiting to see how higher he may yet ascend into the Valhalla of boxing.
November 1st, 2009 at 9:21 pm
Conching's Says:

Nice write-up Mr. Freeman. Keep it up.
November 1st, 2009 at 9:59 pm
fernandoce Says:

I’ve been reading write-ups every now and then and this is the most balanced piece that I’ve read so far. You really hit the nail I can’t help responding. You gave credit where credit is due. After all, boxing is a sports and sport means being fair and even. Manny is the best fighter out there in the eyes of sportsfans and nobody can take that away from him.
November 1st, 2009 at 10:07 pm
Xaxtom Says:

“Creeping doubt”, “butterfly in the stomach”, “what’s a heaven for?” and “never by a better man”.

Brilliantly told.

This article disects so well the many levels of Manny Pacquiao. I have read a lot about the PacMan but this one hits the mark right to the very heart.
November 1st, 2009 at 10:37 pm
Another Pac Fan Says:

Appreciate the write up sooo much.. Come on 2 more weeks….
November 1st, 2009 at 10:41 pm
dominic Says:

Probably the most well written article I’ve read in a month’s time with regard to Pacquiao’s.

Thanks a lot….are you a Filipino?
November 1st, 2009 at 11:00 pm
isidro Says:

Nicely put,but the butterflies added up to the greatness of any fightmatch.I can still loudly and vividly remember the shoutings and the spectacular images of Pacquiao vs. Hatton fight in my mind.My heart stop beating for a second but the relief created a rush in my brain ,Pacquiao did what he is not suppose to achieved in the logical sense it is.Again this Pacquiao vs. Cotto has created the same feeling to me but this time much more of the same;I won’t hold my breath during the fight it will happens automatically,this time i hope and pray that Pacquiao is standing tall and acknowledging the great responses that the moment captures in it’s spontaineity.Pacquiao to chew one more than what a lot think he can’t chew.
November 1st, 2009 at 11:06 pm
Jay Ari Yin Says:

Great article!

Manny wins, TKO 10th rnd.
November 1st, 2009 at 11:11 pm
nonoypinoy Says:

Very nice article.The pacman will eventually reach the point where the only option is to go down.But he will go down in history as the best small guy fighting bigger oppositions w/o fear or reservations.Pacman winning this fight will surely put him in all time greatness but Cotto’s win will just be another ordinary title defense win because logic dictates that he should win this figth. Go manny..give us something to be happy inspite of everything that happens to our land in the past weeks.Pray as you always do..Pacman forever!
November 1st, 2009 at 11:49 pm
Anonymous Says:

wow….. what a beautiful article… well said…..
November 1st, 2009 at 11:54 pm
not this time Says:

many people here already appreciated ur words…. i belive in them except that i know this fight belongs to Pacquiao. PAcquiao may be eventually beaten by a bigger man but not in this fight! PAc too fast and mobile for cotto! i think mosley, mayweather, mikel kessler(a super middleweight) has a bigger chance of beating Pac than Cotto.
llewmij@ymail.com
November 2nd, 2009 at 12:03 am
dalmatian Says:

Thumbs up for this article. But I got a minor query, “…with butterflies in his stomach each time the opening bell rings…”. What does butterflies mean here? Sorry for my ignorance.
November 2nd, 2009 at 12:14 am
Joe Bruiser Says:

it’s a metaphor used to describe a feeling of nervousness or anxiety.
November 2nd, 2009 at 12:25 am
byobodybag Says:

One of the best write-ups on Pacman ever..
November 2nd, 2009 at 12:27 am
pinoyako Says:

Mr Freeman,

One of the best if not really the best (at the moment…) piece of article so far coming from you. Intelligently done! I can’t stop reading it all over again. I’ve been busy forwarding your article to my colleagues.hehe… I hope I have also the wit in writing such nice piece.

Keep it up Sir!
November 2nd, 2009 at 12:49 am
EXAMINERAUTHOR Says:

History will be on the Pac’s side. Slowpoke and dirty fighter Cotto will suffer the Hatton Loss for the first time in his boxing career.
November 2nd, 2009 at 1:35 am
pinoypaolo Says:

in relation with the title pound for pound, pacman deserves to carry the name.. unlike the other one he claims from his own words that he is the 1,until now?? com’on men, people have voted and its pacman. Comparing your undefeated streak ( Enemies no better than Pacman )??? Than the worlds number 1 pound for pound Manny, your knockout ratio is just too low, and the excitement that Pacman brings when he fights you cannot level at. I wish Pacman goodluck, Cotto is a bigger man and has fought better and stronger fighters, but we dont know maybe Pacman’s venom is far more poisonous. chow!
November 2nd, 2009 at 1:49 am
Kirk3451 Says:

Outstanding article… i think it’s been a long time since I’ve been moved by a boxing article as good as this.. Keep it up Ace!!!! Pac by KO on the 7th round against Cotto..
November 2nd, 2009 at 2:18 am
te tumbo Says:

Pacquiao ain’t sh*t. Overrated. (And I’m still bitter…)
November 2nd, 2009 at 2:28 am
benjie jimenez Says:

KUdos, Mr ACE your really an ace of DiAmOnDs, very objective and fair. But I know deep inside your a PAC fan which you can’t hide. But any hardcore can’t be amazed by what Pac had achieved and still reaching beyond his grasp. Butterflies will be all over MGM come 14
November 2nd, 2009 at 2:48 am
... Says:

pacquiao on 9th round to K.O. cotto or stoppage…
November 2nd, 2009 at 3:05 am
Larry Lachica, Jeddah, K.S.A. Says:

Excellent Article Mr. Freeman…its an ACE and what a coincidence your name is ACE Mr. Freeman…

Btw, Mr. Freeman I will appreciate if you can send me a copy of this Article by E-mail (larlachica81@yahoo.com) and i just want to kip it for my Kids….

highly appreciate…Much thanks in advance..
November 2nd, 2009 at 6:02 am
galengco Says:

great write ups. i enjoyd it very much. but just like the career of pacman, hate to see the end
November 2nd, 2009 at 7:03 am
Jayr Royol Says:

i have to say, this is THE best article i’ve read about pacquiao! kudos to you, brother!
November 2nd, 2009 at 7:22 am
Xaxtom Says:

Hi Mr. Ace,

You are a perfect candidate to write a novel for Manny Pacquiao. Please do consider writing up a novel for Manny Pacquiao being a modern day warrior in and out of the ring. You have captured and enthralled us all with your unique sense of bringing to light the minute details and many levels of Manny that was never before brought up to light.

I, along with millions out there, who desperately seek a hero in us all would want to have that pocketbook about a hero who is bigger than life, who is selfless, and who dare go places where nobody has been before and came out a true champion in every sense of the word. Just imagine entire nation of 90 Million comes to a halt every fight night and brings the nations crime rate to a halt. Nobody could do that but a true champion.

And your deep sense
November 2nd, 2009 at 7:37 am
Xaxtom Says:

And your deep sense of telling in a simple yet almost powerful way kept us interested to read more and know more the heart of this champion.

Hope you would consider writing a novel for Manny Pacquiao.
November 2nd, 2009 at 7:41 am
Rey Fanila Says:

Finally, It’s good to read from this unbiased writer.
As the saying goes some good things must last. Maybe it will come to pacquiao, and will see in this comming fight.
November 2nd, 2009 at 8:57 am
Pakbet Says:

This article is AMAZING! Kudos to you Mr. Ace Foreman!
November 2nd, 2009 at 8:58 am
AlasDivinidad Says:

Check out the funny cotto vs pacquaio video i found at http://www.miguelymanny.com
November 2nd, 2009 at 10:45 am
Puerto bouncer Says:

Everyone knows Manny is not picking on smaller guys. Manny’s top challenge is at Welterweight and it stops there. After Cotto will see who’s next up to fight him.
November 2nd, 2009 at 3:54 pm
jimmy from n' ireland Says:

well, while waiting for your novel, just send me a copy of your article for free.. hehe but definitely I buy your novel if you decide to write it.

thanks to the author… Mr. ACE FREEMAN here’s my e-mail add. jaypee128@yahoo.com
November 2nd, 2009 at 4:24 pm
lefthookwonder™ Says:

good read!

I cant wait for Nov14. another boxing history in the making!

Manny is larger than life!

Peace out!
November 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 pm
Anonymous Says:

that means if he gets beat by floyd or cotto, well it doesnt count already cuz they r bigger =D
November 2nd, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Jake Says:

Speechless!… Very nice nice article.
Every writer should write this way…
November 2nd, 2009 at 8:01 pm
surenuff Says:

Very good article.
November 2nd, 2009 at 9:15 pm
Speedmaster Says:

Ace – you said it ALL with one line: “At some point he may eventually be beaten by a bigger man… but never by a better man.” KUDOS to you, excellent choice of words. Building and capturing the readers attention from start and capping it with a great line.
November 2nd, 2009 at 9:17 pm
dagul Says:

This is the best boxing article written since
time immemorial.
What a punchline indeed, “In Manny Pacquiao’s case true greatness has already been achieved. At some point he may eventually be beaten by a bigger man… but never by a better man.”
Ace, you have captured the hearts and mind of my
fellow Filipinos.
Thank you very much!
November 2nd, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Ace Freeman Says:

Thank you for all the kind words. I found myself anxious for the fight the last few weeks and just tried to put my feelings into some constructive form / words.

I will email a copy to those who have requested one.

I appreciate the feedback and like most of you I am very excited for the fight on Nov. 14.

Just want to clarify that in no way am I forecasting some kind of impending loss for Manny in this fight. I think it is a win-able one for him and may the best man win!
November 2nd, 2009 at 10:11 pm
duke Says:

Thanks Ace!
Good article, Both fighters really bring the sweet science to life. May the good, lucky, skilled, and clever fighter win!
November 3rd, 2009 at 12:05 am
pinoyako Says:

Mr Freeman,

All of my friends whom I forwarded your article wanted me to convey their utmost gratitude to you for that very inspiring piece of yours. We’re really grateful that you wrote such article.

Can you please send me a copy of this article on my email(miguel_010@yahoo.com)? I will keep it as a souvenir and in the future will show to my children and grandchildren.hehe… Hope you won’t mind.

Thanks and more power!

Keep writing Sir!
November 3rd, 2009 at 12:10 am
Anonymous Says:

GREAT ARTICLE WELL DONE MR ACE
November 3rd, 2009 at 12:57 am
Biz Says:

great article!!! This is the best boxing article I’ve red ever!! A true genius writer who writes only the truth for one of the greatest fighters the world have seen!! Mabuhay ka Manny!!! Mabuhay ka Mr. Freeman!!! really enjoyed reading your article sir..
November 3rd, 2009 at 2:53 am
ara mina Says:

cotto will be too easy for manny.

manny wont loose to this big man…not yet…
November 3rd, 2009 at 2:58 am
sotyx Says:

I told Manny to knock out Cotto in the first round hehehee. You think I’m kidding!!! good luck Mr. Cotto.
November 3rd, 2009 at 11:39 am
Arkei Says:

very good article ace.. im getting goose bumps while reading this.. manny pacquiao is the filipino preide!!
November 4th, 2009 at 1:49 am
akita Says:

very captivating, though i find it one-sided appreciation.
How about an article for Mayweather too. I think this will give the same or perhaps much more oows and ahhs.
November 5th, 2009 at 6:05 pm
Yrneh Says:

You’re the modern Hemingway. You write with passion. Yah, I think you can be a rich man by writing a novel about Pac. God Bless!
November 5th, 2009 at 6:58 pm
prmale Says:

IT SURE IS A NICE ARTICLE!

BUT IF HE LOOSES IT SURE IS BY A BETER MEN.
November 5th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Tango-4 Says:

nice article, very well said. we need more writers like you, not those cheap craps. lets get it on! … and make all boxing fans happy.
God bless you and more power.
November 6th, 2009 at 12:35 am
puerto acqui Says:

gosh, they can call ace the god writer of boxing.
With his number one fan pinoyako reading.
November 6th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
joel Says:

your words move me almost to tears. Manny is now starting to unite the boxing world. Everyone seems to have a take and it’s the sign that he’s on the verge of all-time greatness. Manny inspires all of us whether we want to admit it or not.
November 10th, 2009 at 5:26 am
Bigkat Says:

Not a bad bit of writing, Ace. A nice breakdown and summation of various considerations. I especially liked your conclusions regarding Floyd Mayweather, and, for once I find myself in agreement with you.

You may not have time to read this, but if you happen to I’ve a question. We all noticed at the weight-in that something transpired between Freddie and Joe. Freddie’s body language and gesticulations suggested that there was some kind of conflict or disagreement. I’m sure you noticed it as well. What was the issue?
November 14th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Executioner Says:

Manny will win this in the 8th round!
November 14th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Anwar Jamison Says:

Great article. Boy, oh boy, fight night is finally here!

The only thing that is certain in this fight (I think) is that Pacquiao will finally take a couple of real punches from someone above 135.

I can’t really predict this one. I want to cheat and say either Pacquiao will blow him away within three rounds (which I can’t really see) or Cotto will slowly overpower him with his trademark style.

If it turns into a real fight with real exchanges, I would be interested to see how many deals with that.
November 14th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
joel Says:

He’s still grasping it. Miguel was at his best. It was good for a while but too much manny. This no longer a david. This is godzilla!
November 15th, 2009 at 4:02 am
joel Says:

As good as this article is you now have to one-up it to capture the essence of manny’s win last night. Pls don’t forget to give props to miguel cotto. He should be remembered in this fight too and i’m thinking in a gallant way. Expect nothing from the best writer for the best story in boxing.
November 15th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
joel Says:

sorry, I meant “expect nothing less..”
November 15th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
pacman vs money Says:

i think manny is gonna target floyd’s body especially the shoulder and then catch him
in the later round with a knock out.
December 13th, 2009 at 12:49 am

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