Manny's mission

A few days before Manny Pacquiao's fight with Ricky Hatton, I found myself having drinks with some friends and speculating on the outcome. My prediction of a knockout victory for Pacquiao in the third round was laughed at by most of the people at the table.

They all agreed that the Filipino wouldn't have enough power to knock out the larger Hatton and the only chance he had was the fight going the distance. After all, this was a boxer who had begun his professional career at 112 pounds and was now fighting at 145 pounds.

Well, my prediction was a few seconds out, but as the world now knows, the Filipino boxer certainly did have enough power. His second-round knockout of the Englishman was one of the most impressive in recent boxing history.

The doubters

Against Hatton, Manny had again proved the doubters wrong. It was surprising how many of those doubters he still had after beating Oscar De La Hoya in his previous contest. Before that fight, some experts had feared for Manny's safety, saying he was in danger of being killed by the much taller De La Hoya. Those people were certainly left with egg on their face, as Manny won easily.

If there is any consolation for De La Hoya and Hatton, it is that they were defeated by a boxer who is now thought of as a true legend. His success has made Asia proud and is an inspiration for thousands of youngsters who come from poor backgrounds similar to his own. Of course, few, if any, are likely to come close to Pacquiao's fame, but if taking up the sport stops some from becoming involved in crime or drugs, that will be a great success story in itself.

The dream fight

Pacquiao's career has included many exciting matchups, but the one every boxing fan wants to see is Manny against Floyd Mayweather Junior. If the fight does happen and the two boxers are at their best, it will be a difficult one to call.

Manny might start as the favourite, but the US boxer is a master of defence and one of the most naturally gifted boxers to enter a ring. It would also be a fascinating contrast of personalities as the brash Mayweather likes to be the centre of attention, whereas the humble Manny quietly goes about his business.

Political punching power

Manny is not only interested in proving his power inside the boxing ring. He has already run for election in the Philippines and his political ambitions are no secret. He may be an experienced professional in the ring, but in the word of politics he is still an amateur.

However, if his potential political rivals have watched his boxing career closely, they will know he is a quick learner and that it's never wise to underestimate this man's power.

QUESTIONS

Match the vocabulary in bold to the meanings below:

1. Someone who doesn't like to show off

2. Something positive that comes as a result of losing

3. Starting a new sport or hobby

4. To look stupid through their own actions or comments

5. People who do not fully believe in someone or something

6. To last until the end of a competition or event

7. Someone who is outgoing and likes to show off

What do you think?

Do you think Manny would be successful as a politician?

ANSWERS

1. Humble

2. Consolation

3. Taking up

4. Left with egg on their face

5. Doubters

6. Going the distance

7. Brash

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