By Ronnie Nathanielsz

MANNY Pacquiao was hit by a virus as he ended his first two weeks of training for his much-awaited rematch with World Boxing Council super-featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez at the Mandalay Bay Resort Hotel and Casino on March 15, but that didn’t stop him from his first sparring session.

Pacquiao said that despite a nasty cough, he continued training even as he endured the cold mornings when doing his roadwork. He said he will continue training—rain or shine—because he wants to win his battle with Marquez for his country and his family.

The Pacman dropped Marquez three times in the opening round of their clash in May 2004, but the counter-punching Mexican eventually salvaged a draw. Pacquiao said he wants to erase that decision in their fight which has aptly been titled “Unfinished Business.”

Pacquiao, whose personal problems have clearly been resolved, was thankful that his wife was by his side morning and night and said he draws strength from her to continue training hard.

He also thanked Dr. Allan Recto, a close friend and a fan, who flew in from Laredo, Texas, where he operates a clinic to attend to him and to give his entourage anti-flu vaccine, leaving his clinic the moment Pacquiao called.

Pacquiao began sparring yesterday and went four rounds. He said he was pleased with his sparring and with six weeks to go before the fight, the training camp under Freddie Roach has gone well.

Marquez, meantime, continues his training diligently, according to journalist James Blears in Mexico. Marquez himself has said he will avenge the losses inflicted on Mexican legends Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik “El Terrible” Morales, among others.