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November 21st, 2009 | by Oliver Suarez
 When people talk about being at a memorable event, such as the “Thrilla in Manilla”, they often talk about feeling a sense of euphoria. Most of them can remember every detail that happened during the event. I, for one, couldn’t relate to those feelings until I saw the Manny Pacquiao vs. Miguel Cotto fight live in Las Vegas last Saturday. It’s been a few days, but I can still feel the excitement and remember every detail of the fight. I couldn’t miss that fight for its historical context and I knew both fighters were going to put on a great show.
The Puerto Ricans came in droves to support Miguel Cotto and they were not shy about expressing their opinions about their man and the possible outcome of the fight. But the loyal supporters of Pacman were not to be outdone as thousands of Filipinos came to watch the fight and experience the athmosphere of Las Vegas during a big event. In the MGM Grand alone, I couldn’t walk anywhere without seeing creative signs, flags of the fighters’ respective countries and T-shirts depicting the fighters.
As for the fight, it lived up to the hype. It was certainly a fight that will be talked about for years to come. Pacquiao continued to defy logic and surpass rising expectations. Except for the first round, where Cotto’s jabs and counterpunching were able to control Pacquiao, the rest of the fight belonged to Manny.
Pacquiao utilized his full arsenal, throwing jabs, straight lefts, and uppercuts from all angles. Before the fight, many doubted if Pacquiao had the power to hurt a legitimate welterweight with a formidable chin such as Cotto. How can Pacquiao knock out Cotto when Mosley couldn’t do it and he lasted 11 rounds with Margarito’s supposedly loaded gloves? But Pacquiao is an anomaly, his punches come from all angles and those punches are the most dangerous in boxing. Furthermore, he has incredible stamina, which allows him to throw his flurries from the beginning of the fight until the end.
Pacquiao is also more explosive that Mosley and Margarito. Mosley’s hand speed might come close to Pacquiao’s and may have more power, but he’s more of an orthodox fighter. Pacquiao is unconventional as he throws punches from all angles and uses his fast twitch muscles in his legs often to jump and throw a punch at the same time. The power in those legs are also the reason he is so quick on closing the gap between himself and his opponents.
However, the most surprising thing that was evident in the fight was how Pacquiao was able to take the shots from one of the hardest punchers in the division. Take note, Miguel Cotto was the same guy that knocked down Clottey and Alfonso Gomez with a jab. Pacquiao basically walked through Cotto’s punches to deliver his own version of punishment.
What many boxing analysts and fans fail to understand is the level of Pacquiao’s ring IQ and technical skills. He wouldn’t be where he is now if he was just a one-dimensional slugger. Miguel Cotto is a quality boxer, but Pacquiao not only outslugged him, but outboxed him as well. Just look at how he played mind games and rope-a-dope on Cotto in trying to lure him into a slugfest. Watch Pacquiao when he throws his flurries when he has his opponents on the ropes. He frequently shortens his punches to be more accurate and keeps his opponent on the ropes.
Compare the Pacquiao of today to the one that first fought Morales and the vast improvements are unbelievable. It is arguable that no one in history of the sport has improved more during the middle and latter parts of their career as Pacquiao and that is due not only to his work ethic, but his excellent knowledge of the Sweet Science.
Now, with his win against Cotto, who was considered one of the elites in the welterweight division, Pacquiao can retire if he wants to. He has done everything possible; he’s fought the best, won belts at more weight classes than anybody in history and has given the sport of boxing a much needed boost. Even some of his ardent critics have now given Pacquiao the respect he deserves. He truly is a great fighter. He may not be the best technical fighter, but great fighters come in different packages. Just ask Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.
With his win against Cotto, there is no more “what ifs” in Pacquiao’s career and he proved that he is certainly one of the all-time greats, along with Duran, Leonard, Hagler, Sugar Ray Robinson, etc. and arguably the best in our generation. It took awhile for people to realize that, but it’s becoming more difficult for his critics to ignore the truth. One reason is that it is something different and unexpected. Pacquiao’s resume is incomparable and probably only surpassed by those of Henry Armstrong. As a result, some continue to find minute reasons to downgrade his accomplishments.
Boxing is usually dominated by Americans, Latinos and, to a lesser extent, Europeans. Who would have thought that a Filipino would be considered not only the best boxer in the world, but arguably it’s most bankable superstar. It’s like when the Americans started losing basketball games in the Olympics. We had a hard time accepting the fact that other nations were catching up with us in terms of basketball skills. Imagine if the US soccer team won the World Cup. Would they suddenly earn the respect of soccer fans around the world as a great soccer team?
It’s not racism, but just human nature to find it difficult to accept something different. It was only recently that Pacquiao’s accomplishments were questioned because supposedly, he hadn’t fought any black fighters, but when those critics were confronted with the fact that he fought Agapito Sanchez and Ledwaba, they modified their criticism to how Pacquiao has not fought any African American fighters. I guess Floyd should be criticized for not facing a Bolivian fighter. The fact is when Pacquiao was at the lower weight classes, he fought the best and the top fighters just happened to be Asians and Latinos. Tell me an African American fighter that was better than Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera and Morales in the lower weight classes?
It’s also a generational issue, some people just cannot accept the fact that an athlete from today has reached the same level as their boxing heroes from the past, such as the fighters I had mentioned above. The funny thing is some of these critics had never even lived at the same time as those fighters. The same thing will happen if Kobe Bryant happens to win his 7th title and surpasses Jordan’s number of championships; criticisms of Kobe will pour in to protect the latter’s legacy.
But analyzing Pacquiao’s career in an unbiased manner, you can only come up with one conclusion, which is that he is definitely an all-time great. There is nothing else for Pacquiao to accomplish. In fact, because of his style of fighting, it’s advisable that he should retire soon and enjoy the fruits of his labor.
Of course, as a fan of the sport, I hope he fights Mayweather first before he calls it quits, but he doesn’t need Mayweather to secure his legacy. Still, a fight between the two is bound to happen since Pacquiao definitely wants it and the money will be too much for even Floyd to turn down. Arguably, it will be the biggest fight in boxing since the Oscar De La Hoya vs. Felix Trinidad fight.
Until then, Mayweather’s camp can continue to downplay Pacquiao’s accomplishment and throw baseless accusations while Pacquiao continues to gain more respect from boxing fans. His humbleness, appreciation for the fans and thirst for the greatest of challenges has allowed him to cross over multiple boundaries. You don’t have to be a Filipino to appreciate what he has done and his story is an inspiration for everyone.
Despite all the trash talking on the internet or wherever, Pacquiao has tons of Mexican, African American, Puerto Rican and fans all over the world. At the end of the day, it’s all about entertainment, the sport and appreciating the fighters. The Puerto Ricans gave Pacquiao a standing ovation for his effort in the fight against Cotto and the Filipinos paid respect to Miguel Cotto for showing class and giving a valiant effort. We should all do the same.
This entry was posted on Saturday, November 21st, 2009 at 1:15 PM.
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November 21st, 2009 at 3:05 PM
I HAVE TO TOTALLY AGREE WITH EVERTHING THAT YOU STATED ABOUT MANNY PACQUIAO, HE TRULY HAS EARNED THE DISTICTION AS AN ALL TIME GREAT I ALSO BELIVE HE DOES NOT NEED TO FIGHT MAYWEATHER TO CEMENT HIS BOXING LEGECY. HE HAS DONE MORE THAN ENOUGH TO DO THAT AND YOU ARE CORRECT IN THAT ONLY HENRY ARMSTRONG IS COMPAIRABLE TO HIM IN HIS ACCOMPLISMENTS. ALSO YOUR RIGHT ABOUT THE QUICK TWITCH MUSCLES BEING A BIG FACTOR IN HIS BOXING ABILTYS ITS REFRESHING TO ME AS A FORMER AMATURE BOXER AND FAN OVER 40YRS THAT HE IS BEING GIVEN THE CREDIT HE SO JUSTLY DESERVES BY SOMEONE OF YOUR OBVIOUS INTELIGENCE AND BOXING KNOWLEDGE THANKS SINCERLY HENRY THE HOOK FROM PHILLS PA USA!
November 21st, 2009 at 3:22 PM
Good article,100% correct and excellent analysis.you are really a good writer.more power to you.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:21 PM
i agree, if you love watching boxing you should love manny bcoz of his style. he is different and once in a lifetime. ireally enjoy watching him.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:22 PM
Great article! I couldn’t agree more with the writer. Pacquiao has made history with his achievements and needs to be given due respect.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:22 PM
You said it right.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:25 PM
I think manny deserves to be in league with all time greats Ali and Sugar ray robinson,too.And I think that if he does not fight Mayweather it would be a big mistake .Floyd is his last obstacle that he must face before calling it a day,he represents Pacquiao’s final task so people can truly say that manny is the pound for pound best.I dont care if it’s in yankee stadium or in texas it has to be done.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:26 PM
Good stuff. You’re a different kind of writer, maybe an all-time great.. lol
I just love this article, I’m a Pacman fan obviously, but I think he deserves an article like this. I’m sick and tired of people downplaying his achievements, making excuses everytime he wins.
More power.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:26 PM
Finally, a substantial article for a “true” fan of the Sweet Science. I’m glad that I could still find an articulate and sharp minded writer in my league! Way to go Oliver!
November 21st, 2009 at 5:28 PM
same here…excellent! Best I’ve ever read about the subject…More power to you.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:28 PM
That is what i call great sport writing. I salute you Oliver. how i wish sportswriters think they way you think. you have a mind of a good judge–uncorrupted mind.VERY, VERY GOOD..another 100% for you. from angel and me.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:39 PM
[...] respect to Miguel Cotto for showing class and giving a valiant effort. We should all do the same. read more Filed Under: [...]
November 21st, 2009 at 5:39 PM
Great Article!!
November 21st, 2009 at 5:42 PM
great article, very objective and in-depth analysis. we need more writers like you.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:44 PM
Floyd Mayweather, did somebody wrote an article praising you like this?…No wonder, you have develop an inferiority complex. You must overcome that by fighting Paquiao and beat him.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:46 PM
5*****article. Keep writing honest and analytical article. You deserve my respect and admiration.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:48 PM
Excellent writing!!! Magnificent! The way you deciphered and analyzed Pacman shows your in depth knowledge of sweet science. You can be a great coach with your skill. Congratulation!
November 21st, 2009 at 5:50 PM
at first mexicans hated pacquiao when he bludgeoned their boxing heroes the tres musketeers but after those they learn to respect and love pacquiao. now the puerto ricans had a high respects with the pacman. cotto got all the respect from the filipinos when he showed his true sportsmanship in the ring. And now all races likes pacquiao because he showed all kinds of respect before and after the bout with no trash talks at all and one day floyd will respect pacquiao esp after the fight i really dont if mayweather senior will
November 21st, 2009 at 5:52 PM
WOW, a really good article. This will help to wake up those unbelievers about Pacquiao who he is and where he belong. Keep up the good wrting.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:52 PM
Nice and excellent….you deserve a thumbs up…continue writing good and true articles.
November 21st, 2009 at 5:53 PM
Well written article. All my respect to Cotto, a very brave and noble fighter. Cotto NEVER made any excuses. HE did his best. He is a Great welterweight, any other boxer would have been knocked down with his shots, but alas it was iron chinned Pacman. I just hope other writers would just give pacman his due and give credit for Cotto’s bravery as well and not try to diminish Cotto’s effort by offering excuses for him because HE was man enough not to give any. I’ll continue supporting Miguel Cotto, he’s an exciting fighter. But Pacman is an all time great. cheers!
November 21st, 2009 at 5:56 PM
Thanks Oliver! Great read.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:02 PM
im an avid pbf fan before, that was before. i see his fight (pbf) as interesting one, but when he retired with many quality challengers around waiting him, ive doubted his greatneess. but it is pacman who showed the braveness that you cant see on pbf.. and pacman’s style of fighting is exciting than pbf.. if fighter like pacquiao was indeed an all-time great, but a writer like you, who wrote so precisely, is GREAT all time!
November 21st, 2009 at 6:13 PM
Very very well written article, goodjob!!!! im a boxing fan, and a pacman fan too, pacman walk the walk while mayweather just talk and more talk then dance in the ring then more talk, i hope pacman shuts his mouth in the ring.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:13 PM
great article. non-biased and based on facts. one of the best i ever read in here. hope other writers can follow this example. i salute u writer. my two thumbs up!!!
November 21st, 2009 at 6:13 PM
Very objective and informative.With so many stories about Manny and his fight with Cotto and references to Mayweather, most articles have sounded the same to the point of becoming boring read. Your article is a different kind of Manny matter, for all-time great.
Mabuhay!
November 21st, 2009 at 6:17 PM
excellent article, but i’m not agree you on this” Mosley’s hand speed might come close to Pacquiao’s and may have more power”, i dont think mosley is faster and has more power then pac, even mayweather respect pac’s power, if you dont belive me ask delahoya, hatton or cotto
November 21st, 2009 at 6:21 PM
Great article..
Pacman has British followers too.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:22 PM
The best article that I ever read. Oliver Suarez, you are a very good and articulate writer.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:31 PM
thank you for this nice article.. God bless and more power to you.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:32 PM
nicely done.. no comment..
November 21st, 2009 at 6:35 PM
You are absolutely correct. I may just add to describe Manny as a the most versatile fighter of the recent generation.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:42 PM
Great article! I wonder how those other writers try to gauge Manny Pacquiao’s greatness compared to other boxing greats when they haven’t even seen them fight. They were not even born when those fighters were fighting and those fights took placed. To be honest, the skill level before is no where near than of the present. The disparity is pretty obvious. Manny Pacquiao is at least top 5 greatest of all time, IMO.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:43 PM
what an article keep on coming…..more power to you
November 21st, 2009 at 6:46 PM
kudos to you Mr Suarez…
You’ve written a very good piece…and im keeping a copy of it for my personal files.
One of the best ive read so far.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:48 PM
accurate analysis and fair and balance sports journalism.
November 21st, 2009 at 6:52 PM
good one bro. for me, one more fight for pacman and that should be with floyda only. mosley blew his chance by signing up with berto. he should have wait for the outcome of pacman-cotto fight…i know pacman-mouthfeather would be a booring fight..it’s attack, attack, attack against run, run, run. but it is the easiest fight with the fattest paycheck for packy.
November 21st, 2009 at 7:07 PM
Kudos to you Mr. Suarez!!! well said and a very good analysis of the exploits of Pacman in the history of boxing. The truth and the facts of the matter is well presented. I do not know you Mr.Suarez and in fact it is only now that i read about you and your article. Other writers write just to create controversy and “excitement” on the article written”! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
November 21st, 2009 at 7:12 PM
hands off!!! great article, It makes more proud being a filipino!:D
November 21st, 2009 at 7:14 PM
Very good article, keep up the good work mr suarez!
November 21st, 2009 at 7:19 PM
You are absolutely right Mr. Suarez. Good article. More power!
November 21st, 2009 at 7:22 PM
Good article. Pacquiao not only gave us reason to appreciate that a person from a third world country can do with total dedication and a sense of responsibility to both paying and casual fans to the world boxing and overall sports. It is his respect to his opponents, humbleness. Unlike Floyd, Manny doesn’t like to be called “great” - just an ordinary boxer wanting to please the boxing fans.
November 21st, 2009 at 7:29 PM
great article!
November 21st, 2009 at 7:34 PM
Great article! Very objective and insightful. I hope sports writers like you multiply a thousand fold (because some are just dumb and so unreasonably biased).
November 21st, 2009 at 7:37 PM
Good article, well written, two thumbs up!
November 21st, 2009 at 7:39 PM
Greatness is more than potential. It is the execution of that potential. Beyond the raw talent. You need the appropriate training. You need the discipline. You need the inspiration. You need the drive.
[info][add][mail]
Eric A. Burns, Gossamer Commons, 08-12-05
We are fortunate to witness in our lifetime a Manny Pacquiao who exemplifies this kind of greatness. No wonder Time Magazine recognized this as MP graced its cover on a recent Asian edition. And the accolades just keeps on coming.
Truly in Pacquiao, we are also witness to a universal truth: “God exalts the humble.”
November 21st, 2009 at 7:41 PM
YOU HIT THE RIGHT SPOT! It’s not what nationality you are, it is for the love of the sports!
November 21st, 2009 at 7:45 PM
I give an A to this article. Very well said.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:01 PM
Yes, but if one looks at Pacquiao’s history, it seems like he had been fighting for the belt since his flyweight days. He was always challenging for the belt, traveling to the opponents’ country and backyard. His 55 fight record and 50 wins 38 KOs, 3 losses, 2 draws is proof that he HAS VAST experience which is downplayed by scribes, as compared to Mayweather’s 40 fights with 25 KO, and Cotto’s 36 fights, 2 losses, 27 KOs. Experience alone makes him slick and knowledgeable. Another is power with BOTH hands. And the last but not the least is UNORTHODOXNESS. He is hard to read. Just from his last 4 opponents, from Diaz, DelaHoya, Hatton, and Cotto, ALL of them testify they couldn’t see Pac’s punches coming. They’re caught offguard and those are the ones that are damaging, not so much with strength. PACQUIAO IS AN EXPERIENCED FIGHTER and let it be known. Mayweather is 15 fights behind Pacquiao.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:04 PM
well-crafted, a comprehensive analysis of manny Pacquiao’s accomplishment, a non-biased observation on the legitmacy of the geatest fighter of this generation,a filipino whose country is just a mere dot in the m ap of the world.
Kudos to you Mr. SuareZ, and keep it up..
November 21st, 2009 at 8:05 PM
Oliver, I doubt if YOU or any other scribe would suspect that Pacquiao is under the influence of Steroids or any kind of illegal substance. But Mayweather Sr. specifically says it. And now Malignant Nagging (malignaggi) is also insinuating it because Malignant said before the fight that if Pacquiao wins he would consider Pacquiao to be the best. But now that he won, he could believe it and is looking for reasons to disprove Pacquiao’s win. When will people believe? Their disbeliefs started with the fight against Morales and moved on through Cotto, and still something’s amiss!
November 21st, 2009 at 8:06 PM
what an explosive articles i’m touch deep inside i hope pacquiao critics must accept the truth and accept all pacquaio achievements in his boxing career.MORE POWER TO YOU!!!!!
November 21st, 2009 at 8:09 PM
It’s bound to happen and finally filipinos are rightly recognized as not just world class athletes but has superior genes in their race. Manny Pacquiao is just one of the many more filipinos that will conquer and dominate their respective areas of disciplines, may it be in the world of arts, culture, corporate, sports etc! Mabuhay ang pilipino!
November 21st, 2009 at 8:15 PM
Thank you for the appreciation you have for Manny. Indeed he is an all time great. We are very proud of Manny for all the honor and glory he gave to God and our country….Unbelievable. He made us really proud of him….Whether he fights PBF or not.nothing change. He is now in the history book of Boxing. For Mayweather, he is a great & talented fighter and showed excellent defensive skill & footwork esp in his return fight with JMM. If he will fight PAC, it will be difficult i guess for Manny. But it is a fight i also would love to see. My only advice for PBF is to learn to give so he too will receive. I felt he doesn’t know how to give appreciation and credit to other fighters. Even after Manny’s victory over Cotto and his other victories, still PBF called Manny a “one dimensional” fighter instead of appreciating Pac accomplishments in the past 3-4 years. That’s why PBF doesn’t receive much appreciation and credit. I don’t think he is gaining more fans and respect on the way he is behaving.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:19 PM
Great article ! people in my work were talking about the Pacquiao-Cotto fight and we all came from different races. Pacquiao has truly crossover boundaries and an ALL TIME GREAT!!!
November 21st, 2009 at 8:20 PM
i am entitled to this! i should be the one! Im undefeated! (but i never fought the best though) i guess you are certainly right! thumbs up to the Pacman! please tell him i cannot afford to have L-1 on my record) please tell him to give me a win over him, anyway if he losses nothing will happen to him he is still the greatest.. please……. hahahahahahah!
November 21st, 2009 at 8:31 PM
nice nice nice article… it’s a breather after all that nonsense biased articles and trash talking comments from other forums in the web…
November 21st, 2009 at 8:32 PM
THE BEST ARTICLE I HAVE EVER READ IN THE INTERNET.MANNY, UNFORTUNATELY CAME FROM A VERY POOR FAMILY, THIRD WORLD COUNTRY AND FROM A BOXING STANDARD COULD NOT EVEN GET A TRAINER WHEN HE FIRST CAME TO AMERICA. ITS AN AMAZING STORY, OF WHICH FREDDY ROACH PLAYED THE MOST IMPORTANT PART TO TRANSFORM A SKINNY FILIPINO KID, WHO COULD NOT EVEN SPEAK ENGLISH AND DID NOT EVEN FINISH HIGH SCHOOL INTO A BOXING ICON AND A FUTURE POLITICIAN. WE WILL DEFINITELY MISS MANNY AND HIS HUMBLE,GIVING WAYS ONCE HE’S GONE FROM THE GAME.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:34 PM
Well written Mr. Suarez. Manny is rare a beast in the ring but an angel outside the ring. He has a big heart, and possess virtues of great men. No wonder he is being love and idolize not only by his countrymen but the whole world who loves the sport. Miguel is a great guy… a great fighter and like Manny he also earned the respect of Filipinos. Mabuhay Manny & Miguel.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:39 PM
galing mo tol!
November 21st, 2009 at 8:41 PM
This article emanated from my heart through your pen. But i will give you the full credit. In other words I concur with you 100%.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:42 PM
Long live the greatest boxer of all time! nice article keep it up!
November 21st, 2009 at 8:46 PM
Mayweather is being obsessed by his insecurities. Many personalities were proven wrong: Mayweathers,Angelo Dundee,dela Hoya,Mosley,Foreman,Malignaggi,Judah,Winky Wright,Emmanuel Steward, and the names went on and on.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:49 PM
Floyd is no match for Pacman. Cotto can even knock hm out within 9rds while Pacman can knock him out within 5rds.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:54 PM
Action speak louder than Gayweather.This is one of the unbiased article I have ever read.
November 21st, 2009 at 8:58 PM
this article is good, nice, awesome, perfect, great, two thumbs up… did i miss something? Keep it up OLIV!!!
November 21st, 2009 at 9:01 PM
True and well written article,very few analyzis are bold enough to write the same.
Mostly it is easier to downgrade pacquiao’s achievemnets than to analyze it out of the box.But this Win against Cotto put Pacquiao into a different level comparable or equal to the old time greats of the past boxing
glory.The tentativities are moved out of the way to hit the truth.Cotto represent the fear of Mayweather and the lost of the others.Pacquiao entrance to the heavies created a common doubts.This made Pacquiao to really work very hard in order to calm down the critiques.Indeed he is successful
and still doing the hard work ,this time to impress and have articles for him in this way for a starter.History have taken it’s role without saying.See the result of the
ppv,clear signs of mainstream acceptance of Manny in the mainland USA.Maywether should see this as a challenge than nothing.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:06 PM
Thumbs up!
November 21st, 2009 at 9:08 PM
I really enjoyed reading this great piece. As what Roeper & Ebert for the movies say… “Two Thumbs Up!”
Keep it up Oliver.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:13 PM
Good article you really love boxing that should be the basis for writing. love for the sport and not by own interest.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:18 PM
keep it up ! best article
its time for them to be humble. ^_^
November 21st, 2009 at 9:20 PM
I agree with the author that the atmosphere in the air at the MGM Grand was electrifiying. Puerto Ricans were in there totally pumped up. Filipinos were flashing their flags everywhere. I was so caught up with the hype I even bought a Pacquiao T-Shirt & Cap to make a statement of who I wanted to win. After Manny knocked down Cotto I just went totally ecstatic. When Manny stopped Cotto in the 12th, it was an unbelievable experience. I was so pumped up that I got into a Puerto Rican’s face & yelled at him “What the f*ck can you say now mother f*cker?” The rivalry and intensity was so intense I couldn’t help but get carried away, although I kind of regret insulting them now. I take nothing away from Cotto though. He tried his best & get gave it his all. That’s all you can ask from a fighter. He congratulated Manny & you can tell in Cotto’s face that he gave Manny his props. Simply bc Cotto lost doesn’t make him a loser. It’s just too bad that he so happened to be fighting a Living Legend who is definitely one of the best of fighters of all time. Someone like Manny comes once every 40-50 years & I’m just so lucky to have lived to witness a Legend in the making.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:24 PM
very well said
November 21st, 2009 at 9:25 PM
Great write-ups keep it up!
November 21st, 2009 at 9:30 PM
You did a great evaluation analysis of Pacman in this article Mr. Suarez. Unbiasedly, surely Pacman deserve to be greatest of all time surpassing performances to some classic boxing legends namely (…!)…
Asian people from all over Asia and Western people who had fair judgment in the sports of boxing must agree with your analysis. Thanks for posting this article Mr. Suarez, you’re one of the great writers in boxing.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:33 PM
one thing dude….a new wallpaper would help your site… the articles are nice but the wallpaper doesn’t compliment it… the coconut trees its not working. more power.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:34 PM
Very nice article….well said…keep up the good work man!!!!
November 21st, 2009 at 9:35 PM
CANADIANS loves Manny Pacquiao! What a stellar life story Pacman has. He is a new generation of boxer. The likes of Alex Ovechkin, Roger Federer, Tiger Woods, Michael Phelps, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lance Armstrong . . . I Just wish he is Canadian.
November 21st, 2009 at 9:48 PM
great article keep it up///
“It’s not racism, but just human nature to find it difficult to accept something different.”
very well said..
November 21st, 2009 at 9:56 PM
Mabuhay ang Boxing!
Mabuhay si Pacman!
Mabuhay ang Pinoy!
November 21st, 2009 at 9:57 PM
great article! an unbiased observation on pacman’s achievements. good job, keep it up.
November 21st, 2009 at 10:07 PM
May I ask? How many divisions did Henry Armstrong conquered? ok i know there only 8 divisions then!..Correct me if I’m wrong..1:Flyweight, 2: Bantamweight, 3:Featherweight, 4:Lightweight, 5:Welterweight, 6:Middleweight, 7:Cruiserweight 8:Heavyweight…Now..How many divisions did Armstrong conquered?..We all know that Manny got the first 5…
November 21st, 2009 at 10:10 PM
Thank you for this very nice article. It’s got all the very good points in it. You’re right, at the end of the day everybody should be entertained and not bored. So take that Mayweather!!
November 21st, 2009 at 10:11 PM
This is the best article I’ve ever read since the day I remember reading Pacqiuao/Cotto related articles…
Damn! You make a goose-bumps out of me…
November 21st, 2009 at 10:16 PM
you got it perfectly right. Great article!
November 21st, 2009 at 10:20 PM
Pacquaio will fight Arrogant Mayweather to prove the whole world Pacman is the Pound for Pound King marking 1 Loss to Floyd Mayweather the purpose zipping his mouth an Arrogant Guy…
November 21st, 2009 at 10:26 PM
still i am a great fan of PBF until now, no one can comes close to his boxing skills… but i cannot disagree to this well written article. PFB needs to test his skills on the likes of Cotto, Margarito and especially Mosley. This is what separates PAC from him.
i am suspecting PBF may have a hard time with PAC.
November 21st, 2009 at 10:27 PM
what u say is absolutely true. i salute you for appreciating my country man. tnx. more power to you.
November 21st, 2009 at 10:27 PM
I agree.. very precise, I’m from Mongolia and seeing the little guy’s fights from his previous fights to Cotto’s turned me into overnight fan of Manni..
November 21st, 2009 at 10:28 PM
this is the best article i’ve ever read! i love this part… “The Puerto Ricans gave Pacquiao a standing ovation for his effort in the fight against Cotto and the Filipinos paid respect to Miguel Cotto for showing class and giving a valiant effort. We should all do the same.” this is unity! manuel perez must do the same, not dumb write ups, i pity him.
November 21st, 2009 at 10:29 PM
nice essay. somebody also does this kind of analysis using more facts at http://pacmandgoat.ws
November 21st, 2009 at 10:42 PM
a very nice article!you stated it very well.. especially about respect…i just hope that the respect will not be only of the two fighters or the country they represent but of every race and through these peace will prevail..
November 21st, 2009 at 10:47 PM
It seems I want to believe pacman can beat mayweather with this article. Congrats! Your analysis makes me think twice… that pacman can easily demolish pbf. And i’m tired of him talking too much…
November 21st, 2009 at 10:53 PM
Probably the best article that I have read with regards to analyzing Pacquiao’s status versus his detractors. I believe this is a fair article in breaking down the issues. Thumbs up.
November 21st, 2009 at 11:02 PM
“Galing!” - meaning great/good. You really looked at it honestly and scientifically. Great job! Keep it up! Mabuhay Manny Pacman Pacquiao! ^^
November 21st, 2009 at 11:15 PM
Agree! One of the best boxing article of our time for best boxer of our time. You’re a true genius of the sweet science of boxing..
As for the Pacman. He is very unique. A great warrior in the ring and most importantly an inspiration to all of us that “Impossible is nothing”…”Greatness is everything”..
What say to that pacman critics!
November 21st, 2009 at 11:16 PM
WOW! Probably the best boxing article I’ve ever read. I liked how you pointed out the racism issue and moreso the generational issue, which is very true. I totally agree with everything that you said. I hope all boxing fans will try to appreciate the PACMAN while he’s still here. I know they will when he retires.
November 21st, 2009 at 11:17 PM
Yes, I agree. He does not need to fight Floyd, Gayweather is bound to lose anyway with the fighters left in his weight class.
November 21st, 2009 at 11:25 PM
Nov. 22, 2009
… kudos for your objective analysis !
Manny and Cotto’s fight is for the good of the sport of boxing. Both deserve our admiration and respect ragardless of race.
They show humility and class as a fighter with
a heart of a champion.
November 21st, 2009 at 11:27 PM
even emmanuel steward has said that pacquiao has to rank among the all time greats after his demolition of cotto, and so does bob arum. only angelo dundee seems to be holding back his appreciation of pacquiao. he will probably admit his mistake in choosing the other fighter but never appreciate pacquiao as a boxer-fighter.
November 21st, 2009 at 11:28 PM
Excellent.Unbiased and true to the fact.Hope all of the sports scribe will write the same way you wrote.Perfect.
November 21st, 2009 at 11:42 PM
reading all the comments here, i can generalize that they are all Filipinos. Oliver, i haven’t known you personally, but are you a Filipino? If you are, then Filipinos do not only showcase their intelligence in the ring but also in writing.You are a proof of that Mr. Oliver(If you are a Filipino), anyways, whatever your race is, I give my highest salute to you for writing an excellent comments that should be accorded only to ALL TIME SPORTS GREAT LIKE PACMAN!
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:19 AM
Bulls eye! Good article! Keep it up and more power to you Mr.Suarez
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:25 AM
Nice article, Mr. Writer! Your tribe may flourish.
Pacquiao should also be look up as the most chivalrous boxer there is in and out of the ring. He never thrashtalk his opponents. He is very humble despite of his fame and accomplishments. It is very seldom to find a boxer or people like him. People usually gloat over their petty accomplishments.
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:33 AM
I salute you for writing this article… nice and absolutely true…
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:35 AM
Whoa!!!,,,,Great article!It’s an eye opener to those idiot’s critics, always belittle Manny’s achievements…Keep up the good work!!!Im your fan now…Way to go,Oliver…:-)
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:46 AM
Very well written! THANKS! =)
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:47 AM
truly manny pacquiao is an amazing fighter..even here in arab world they really appreciate his accomplishment..well said Mr.Suarez…more power to you..
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:06 AM
Dear boxing fans: Cherish the moments while Pacquiao is still w/ boxing, for soon he’ll be gone like other greats that preceded him. Let’s give him the accolades he truly deserve. Be grateful for this humble phenomenon, who comes rarely in a lifetime redefining the essence of a true & great boxing superstar he truly is. He signifies hope, inspiration, & is just so exciting to watch fighting in the ring. He showed & humbles those who exaggerates their boxing worth; proves that no amount of self-acclaims & words can elevate you to highest boxing pedestal except to fight the best out there. PAC now belongs to ATG IMHO.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:14 AM
Great article Sir! Can you please send me a copy of this piece on my email? I would keep it and show to my children and grand children as proof that we lived in the era of PacMan and watched the drama and history unfolds within our eyes.
Thanks and more power! Keep on writing!
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:18 AM
Great article!!! Heart and mind combined to create this. You’re appreciation to our beloved hero and being a true fan of the sweet science
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:19 AM
Nice article! You’re spot on.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:22 AM
On behalf of all the Filipino’s all around the world thank you for appreciating the efforts of our hero. ^_^
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:42 AM
Very well said. Even if manny would face moneymay and end up losing, he is still a winner because no one has done what he had accomplished. We may never see a boxer like him during this lifetime probably the next or two but I am glad that we got to experience such greatness. A greatness that is of the same level during boxing golden era’s.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:45 AM
I would say indeed Pacquiao is one of the all-time-greats alongside Ali, the Sugar Rays(Robinson and Leonard), Duran, Hagler, Hearns, Armstrong, etc.
Pacquiao has really earned it despite all the so-called experts underestimating his achievements. So for the others, he needs to fight one more time and that is against Floyd.
For me, there are at least 3 fights more to go. I want him to fight Marquez first in May and then Mosely in November before fighting Floyd Mayweather in 2011.
Marquez just to settle the score at 140 lbs.. Mosely also at 147 lbs. and then Mayweather at 147, then retire. Win or Loss.
I however doubt if he wins over JMM and Mosely, he’ll again be criticized for fighting old men.
However, he should fight Floyd to see who’s the best pound for pound fighter today and cement his legacy.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:47 AM
the best boxing article that i have ever read..very nice job youre an all time greats boxing writer..to those pacman doubters how many times pacman made you such a fool?how many times he made you an idiot?pacman always doubters proved wrong…
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:52 AM
Good article! kudos and God speed Mr. Suarez…
The truth is Manny has incredible faith in GOD, seeing him praying before, during and after the fight and giving glory to the Creator make the difference!!!!The hidden talent is a plus factor to anyone.
November 22nd, 2009 at 2:11 AM
Nothing more to say…
November 22nd, 2009 at 2:12 AM
worth the share of Ink pal!!! You are quite efficient on what you do…You had an exceptional writing acumen…keep them coming!!! looking forward to your next article!
November 22nd, 2009 at 2:20 AM
superb.., compelling and accurate.., you’re a sportswriter nonpareil, two thumbs up..,
November 22nd, 2009 at 2:44 AM
the great writer Emerson once said: ‘There is nothing more simple than greatness. Indeed, to be simple is to be great.’ Simplicity, humility, respect are the qualities that separate Manny Pacquiao from Floyd Mayweather. Qualities that make him great. He always says that he is JUST A BOXER who always wants to entertain the fans. While floyd claims that he is the best. If you hear these contrasting beliefs, who do you think is stupid? The one humbling himself or the one who is exalting himself?
November 22nd, 2009 at 3:00 AM
great article.. thanks for giving us a better perspective on how we would see pacquiao.
November 22nd, 2009 at 3:07 AM
count me in for saluting this writer.. very good article.
November 22nd, 2009 at 3:29 AM
pinoy are humble… but not somebody to mess up with… if we fight for a purpose, nothin can beat us…
http://www.badassoftheweek.com/lapulapu.html
November 22nd, 2009 at 3:47 AM
Amen! You just wrote the article i wanted to write. The legacy of Manny is piling up. He is not done yet! Just hope the Gayweather fight pushes through so that not only a period but an exclamation point can be put at the end of the words Among All Time Great!Best boxers is a different phrase from Greatest Boxers. Manny belongs to both world. Finesse is not in Manny’s vocabulary but just the same he is technically sound and astute boxer. He complements his master well during the fight. One writer said he leads the ground assault while master Freddie the air assaults.
November 22nd, 2009 at 4:20 AM
awesome article bro!im just an ordinary(or even least) guy who view things in some xtraordinary way specially the unfathomable rise of PACMAN in 7 wgh division!floyd sr:pacman s in steroids;paul m:pacman s from waterworld(fishy daw eh!he he he);my take:pacmans complete arsenal offense & defense were all bolted not in our dimension,his calf & leg bolted from incridible hulk(how cud such 106 pounder possesd of a middleweightbuilt fighter):his arm of by flash & fist of a hell boy!:faced off to the man of steel:body of the wolverine & of corz the brain of a warrior wizard!whats human in him is his heart,thats why he falls but sad to say to his opponent not at the of the ring but rather in different beds!rightly so for floyd jr…better find the finest surgeon & best alter urself into a monster alien or predator b4 u can last a round against pacman w/o running come fyt nyt!but again,sad to say it cots fu**** millions to do it not even in your insane thought right now.oops,b4 i forget pacmans face outsyd the ring easily transformd that of brad pitt or of washington…im a little confused..he he he,help me conclude by urself!
November 22nd, 2009 at 5:00 AM
A fighter like Manny comes only in hundred years. A good writer writes only the truth no matter who gets hurt. Thank you for writing this article. 5*****article. This is a much much better writer than Manuela Perez.
November 22nd, 2009 at 5:43 AM
nice article!!!a fair & responsible writer…keep it up Oliver!
November 22nd, 2009 at 6:31 AM
Three thumbs up man!!!!!
November 22nd, 2009 at 6:33 AM
this is the longest article i have ever read, and for the first time I read it all the way to the end… good job sir hope to hear more from you…
November 22nd, 2009 at 6:49 AM
good article. but i dont agree when he says Mosley has more power than Pacquiao. Mosley never staggered cotto! and he biggest fight since de la hoya and trinidad?no way, mayweather- de la hoya is a bigger fight than that. how much more this fight, PAcquiao- mayweather??? thats even bigger thanali-frazier or foreman!
November 22nd, 2009 at 7:03 AM
Great article..! Pacman should be considered as all time great. Bob Arum is not only a promoter he is also part of history in boxing when he quoted saying about pacqiuo achievements (Twice); after the full story is written…this gentlement (Pacman) will be remembered as the greatest fighter that had ever lived?!!!!…Thanks for your great article he deserve all of this.. but extend my salute to Miguel Cotto for being a great sportsman…being beaten black and blue by pacman still managed to approach and offered his congratulation with nobility…great champion indeed!
November 22nd, 2009 at 7:12 AM
In my whole life this is my first time i read an article as pricesily as im expected, your the best writters in our generation, just like pacman the biggest draw in boxing today, no doutb, keep writting and have a nice comments.
November 22nd, 2009 at 7:44 AM
No, Pacquiao is just using steroids!
Just kidding! I just came from a thread accussing Manny Pacquiao of doping and I’m still in shock that people are willing to go great lengths and even destroy a person’s character just because they can’t accept that an Asian fighter can be the best in the world.
Kudos to you Oliver. I wish more people had your perspective. Sometimes we focus too much on criticizing the talents of others just because we are blinded by our own bias to the point that we miss out on the opportunity to witness greatness right before our eyes.
November 22nd, 2009 at 8:24 AM
Great Article! You really hit the bullseye! you showcased the deeper content of manny’s success to greatness.
Awesome writer!
November 22nd, 2009 at 8:58 AM
I’ve read a lot of articles about Manny Pacquiao written by a handful of writers but comments made by readers were not unanimous like this one, almost everyone here agreed to the subject matter brought by this writer. Kudos to the writer. Manny is great indeed.
November 22nd, 2009 at 9:23 AM
WOW! excellent article. everything is well-said. nothing but objectively the truth. For Manny, there is nothing to prove at this point. He did it all. He doesn’t need to fight Floyd to cement his legacy in boxing. He is a legend already after his his superb victory over the best welterweight on Miguel Cotto. The only reason that i can think of on Manny fighting Floyd is to keep the latter’s mouth shut and so as everybody around him. Manny doesn’t even talk about Floyd and he doesn’t get insecure of others achievement. His humility outside the ring is incomparable. Some people just can’t believe that a small fighter from the orient is dominating the sport of boxing today. And I believe that Manny belongs to the all-time-great in boxing. I want to see few more fights from Manny before he calls it a day. Maybe two more. Mabuhay!
November 22nd, 2009 at 9:30 AM
great article!
November 22nd, 2009 at 9:31 AM
i really admire Cotto, of being a brave fighter and a gentleman that he showed on his last fight.he’s deserve to respect and appreciate what he has been contributed in boxing economy.
November 22nd, 2009 at 9:56 AM
What an article !!!
A very excellent one.
Unbiased opinion,perfectly laid out truths
and e very convincing argument supported by real facts.
More power to you Sir.
November 22nd, 2009 at 10:04 AM
It’s a convincing 100% good article I tip my hat too to you OLIVER all boxing fans now are giving credits to PACMAN feat no more excuses eversince I believe the boxing skills of manny pacquiao even though other people are not until he wins over cotto…
You are truly an “all time great”…
I also salute to cotto for being a brave, he fight with all his heart until the final round continue fighting without any hesitation I really give him a credit he give all his best, you are a great fighter too… I will continue watching whenever you have fight..
now,I’m your fan too…
Pacman vs cotto deserve a fight history…
November 22nd, 2009 at 10:23 AM
Great article that comes from a wide analysis in a boxing world,let see if Pacman Vs Prettyboy will be face on the ring, Pls visit our website: http://www.theoldpath.com
November 22nd, 2009 at 10:27 AM
the first boxer in history to win 7 titles and some still consider pacquiao as one of the all time greats, if not the all time great? Greatest southpaw ever!
Great article though mr. suarez. fair, balanced,accurate, articulate, full, easy read. nice job.
November 22nd, 2009 at 10:47 AM
Apple now has Rhapsody as an app, which is a great start, but it is currently hampered by the inability to store locally on your iPod, and has a dismal 64kbps bit rate. If this changes, then it will somewhat negate this advantage for the Zune, but the 10 songs per month will still be a big plus in Zune Pass’ favor.
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:14 PM
Bulls eye! Nice article
November 22nd, 2009 at 12:15 PM
great article!!! thanks for your objective analysis on the pacman.
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:04 PM
I have collected many articles related to the win of Pacquiao vs. Cotto. Certainly, I will place on top of the file this article penned by Mr. Suarez.
Congratulations sir for a beautiful article!
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:11 PM
You’re very sensible writer….i couldn’t agree less…what you just said are all facts and real history…Manny Pacquiao is Manny Pacquiao…a once in a lifetime legend…that explains when you get to watch how Manny fights..you don’t need to be a Filipino to to like him or to idolize him….way to go Oliver…..Mabuhay and more power Manny “Pacman, the Punisher, The Destroyer, the Tazmanian Devil, the Mexicutioner, The savage….and so on and so forth Pacquiao!!! You make us Filipino proud!!!
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:20 PM
you have the best of all the articles i have read about boxing and the unbiased and true opinion and speak the truth. Hopefully those unbeliever will be convinced that Mannys accomplishment will put him with the elites. Thanks for an excellent opinion. More power to you…..
November 22nd, 2009 at 1:55 PM
An excellent article riddled with facts and logical ipinions.
November 22nd, 2009 at 2:38 PM
Agree with you that Pacquiao is a great champion and Cotto showed class after the fight. Great article.
November 22nd, 2009 at 4:17 PM
bravissimo!!! sei un genio oliver!
November 22nd, 2009 at 6:09 PM
Hurray! Hurra! Mabuhay! MP have paid his dues in boxing. Ariza & associates, Master Roach & associates are part of the equation in MP’s success. But MP delivers all these inside the ring and must be accredited with utmost respect. Welterweights (141 lbs. - 147 lbs.) weigh-in before the contest has no bearing as long as the two boxers have agreed within the belt minimum to maximum weight required.Remember the word - agreement (nobody were forced).As to your writing - very well done! Thank you so much.
November 22nd, 2009 at 9:43 PM
mayweather sr.is just speculating that pacman uses steroids so that fight night come and litte flod lost, they can have some alibi’s and reasons to discredit pacman’s victory…what a good stuff… hehehe. ur all kind of joke in a science of boxing…shame to all of u pachitters…boastful floyd will suffer the same fate when he face humble pacman (God’s humble warrior)…whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted…(A GOD’S WORD)…
November 23rd, 2009 at 6:49 AM
great post. i agree with you 100%. Pacman is one great boxer and he deserves respect from everyone may it be on boxing field or a simple fan like me. love reading this article! continue making articles like this..
November 26th, 2009 at 3:07 PM
It’s like you read my mind and put it in this great article.
November 26th, 2009 at 9:32 PM
Nice article, thanks…
November 27th, 2009 at 5:49 PM
Excellent Article…More Power!
December 6th, 2009 at 8:41 AM
I don’t know! I’m just not ready to call him an all time great. Back then when you had great fighters like Duran, Leonard, and Hagler, there was no “catch weight.” Either you come up and fight me or I come down, even though most of the time a fighter had to come up. That’s why Duran is recognized higher as pound for pound great than his famous nemesis: Leonard and Hagler, and even Hearns who knock him out in the early rounds. He went up to welterweight to fight Leonard; and went up to middle weight to fight Hagler. There was no catch weight. So you can really consolidate those so call seven weight classes to may be four or five. Granted, the Pacman is a great fighter, and he demonstrated that with Cotto; but I was never impressed with Cotto. To me he was a good B rated fighter. Now Shane Mosley is not getting any younger, so we don’t know what he has to offer. But Mosley was regarded as the second best light weight ever next to Robert Duran and he did beat Delahoya when the Golden boy was “Golden” not on his way out of the sport and past his prime. It’s unfortunate that we can’t rewind the clock or send Manny on a time machine to fight the best fighters and see how he really measures up. Still yet, A great fighter? No doubt! An all time great? Well lets just wait and see!
December 8th, 2009 at 10:02 AM
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December 24th, 2009 at 5:54 PM
Thanks soooooooooooooooooo much for this article, This is exactly what I needed today