By Ronnie Nathanielsz
Former WBC super flyweight champion Gerry Penalosa says Filipino ring idol Manny Pacquiao is still “a hungry fighter and wants to be the best for a long time.”
In an interview with Viva Sports/Manila Standard Today, Penalosa said Pacquiao is prepared to fight anybody who wants to fight him including legendary Mexicans Erik “El Terrible” Morales whom he battles in a Grand Finale rubber match on November 18 in Las Vegas and WBC super featherweight champion Marco Antonio Barrera who has said he is eager for a rematch after being demolished by Pacquiao in November 2003.
Penalosa who is very close to Pacquiao who now manages the 34 year old along with celebrated trainer Freddie Roach said Pacquiao continues to have “ambition” and he wants to “beat up all his opponents.” He said Pacquiao was “in superb condition and is very well prepared” for his November 18 rubber match at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.
Penalosa predicted it would be a fantastic fight and although Morales has prepared well
“he wont be able to handle the vastly improved Pacquiao.” Penalosa said the devastating puncher who is regarded as the most exciting fighter in the world today has “prepared two or three times more than before. He has sacrificed a lot and wants to win handsomely.” He noted that Pacquiao had recruited tough, top class sparring partners not patsies “that’s why his condition is so good.”
Penalosa who received a $5,000 bonus from Pacquiao after scoring a spectacular ninth round knockout over former WBO champion and world No.1 Mauricio Martinez of Panama said he would return to Los Angeles “at least eight weeks” before the title shot promised him by Golden Boy Promotions, adding “I want to achieve the impossible” by becoming world champion once again.
A report from Mexico yesterday quoted the lawyer of Jhonny Gonzalez, Atty. Reginaldo Kuchle as indicating a title defense against Penalosa is likely sometime in February next year, depending on the plans of Golden Boy Promotions. Penalosa said if he had a choice he would prefer to fight Daniel Ponce De Leon because “it’s a bigger challenge.” Penalosa said Ponce De Leon was “big, strong, a good fighter and popular” but his aggressiveness would be ideal for his counter-punching ability. Penalosa added “I will surprise all of you.”
