Is Manny Pacquiao Overrated?

Is Manny Pacquiao Overrated? By Mike “Mykers” Boehm-October 16, 2009 Manny Pacquiao…need I say more? A brilliant fighter who has pummeled opponents through the ranks of professional boxing; earning his reputation respectively. More importantly, most people view the current IBO Light Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao in two ways; you either love him, or hate him. As fighters pursue their dreams, and move up through the ranks, labeling a fighter comes into play. However, the term, “overrated” is easily dished out in many unconventional ways. No doubt, Nonito Donaire and Manny Pacquiao are the Philippines’ two biggest boxing superstars. Both fighters, especially Pacquiao, have dished out many losses to great opponents. Moreover, it’s what both fighters do inside and outside the ring that makes them notable. Manny Pacquiao has given so much to the Philippines, and in turn the support Manny receives is amazing. Also notable, Manny Pacquiao was listed in Time Magazine as one of the world’s most influential people for the year of 2009. Furthermore, try to recall the potential future Hall of Famers Manny Pacquiao dismantled: Oscar De La Hoya, Juan Manuel Marquez, Erik Morales, and Marco Antonio Barrera. Not to mention his most recent win against Ricky Hatton. Some considered Hatton to be the hardest puncher in the light welterweight division. However, Manny's ability as a fighter is ever increasing as we’ve seen in the knockout of Ricky Hatton. Of course I understand there is some speculation regarding the Marquez fight. Although when Pacquiao knocked down Marquez in the third round, it gave him a slight edge. Either way both fighters deserve credit, with Pacquiao being the busier fighter of the two. Of course as we know now, he went on to batter another great champion in Oscar De La Hoya. While most would say that De La Hoya was at the end of his career, Manny showed great confidence coming into the fight. Personally, I believe he is rated properly. Pacquiao has held titles in six different weight divisions. He has shown his ability to adapt to the style of others; and overcome several knockdowns, only to regain control. Like most of Pacquiao's earlier fights, it is usually nonstop action. After Manny defeated Erik Morales, he was slated to face Marco Antonio Barrera. This fight had the eyes of the spectators, because even though Manny won the fight, Pacquiao hardly outworked Barrera, as Barrera’s plan was to keep the fight tactical. However, with Manny's great adaptation, he was able to overcome the tactical aspect and land cleanly to earn the unanimous decision. Though, Manny is a highly polished fighter in generally every aspect, there is another factor in Freddie Roach. The great Freddie Roach has helped Manny Pacquiao reach his game. No doubt the credibility of Roach is undeniable. He has transformed Manny Pacquiao into a fighting machine. It’s pretty impressive to see Manny Pacquiao climb through different weight divisions only to capture more and more world titles. However, Roach essentially fine tunes the attributes of Pacquiao enabling his to perform with relentless pressure, power, and skill. Based on these assumptions, I thought Ricky Hatton had a decent chance against Manny Pacquiao. Ricky, being a pretty tough all around fighter, showed he had what it takes to face an opponent like Pacquiao. Of course I couldn’t be more wrong in assuming this now. Interesting enough, Manny’s upcoming fight with current WBO Welterweight Champion Miguel Cotto should be quite a show. More specifically, I believe these two fighters are fairly matched evenly. While my take is another story, we will once again see how Manny adapts to the bigger stronger opponent. Not to mention a potential seventh world title. Most of Manny Pacquiao’s defeated opponents will tell you, it’s his speed and use of angles that make it difficult for any fighter to land quality punches. A prime example would be the fight with Oscar De La Hoya and David Diaz. The quicker Pacquiao got off to a great start, connecting with clean straight left leads; continually beating De La Hoya to the punch. This style of punching mostly continued throughout fight, until De La Hoya’s corner threw in the towel after the eighth round. Is Manny Pacquiao overrated? It solely depends on the person. If you hate Manny Pacquiao for demolishing one of your favorite fighters then I assume your answer would be “yes.” More importantly, is your decision based on hate? I use hate loosely here because I hate the New York Yankees; even though I know there a great team and I’m a Los Angeles Angels fan. Therefore even though I hate the Yankees there is no doubt that there a top tier team as far as I’m concerned. Also, is it fair to assume Pacquiao is overrated because of his success? I say no way; Pacquiao has shown his ability to adapt to the pressures’ of the ring. If that is not good enough, he has adapted to six different weight divisions; also working on a seventh division as well. Although, by now you have probably determined that his article is very one sided. However, as you read in the last paragraph I have openly admitted that I dislike the Yankees for example. While I can admit this with no remorse, I still vouch that they are an amazing team. Simply put, I understand why people like and dislike Manny Pacquiao. Ultimately though, Manny Pacquiao's actions are justified in his success inside and outside the ring. For any individual to say Manny Pacquiao is “overrated,” I always and openly offer a suggestion…”based on what?” http://ringsidereport.com/rsr/news.php?readmore=2284