It was a day when I’m very proud to be a Filipino.
A night before the fight, I watched HBO’s 24/7 special coverage of Dela Hoya and Pacquiao. In between commercials, I happen to see the preview to the fight of Solar Sports. There were quotes and lines from the bible of the famous tale of David versus Goliath.
I told myself that it is very fitting metaphor to the fight, literally and figuratively.
I was hoping Pacquiao would win, even a split decision. And that he would not suffer a terrible beating should he loose.
But like David, God is with Him – one thing that other boxers always forget to bring in the ring. Pacquiao showed us that with God, everything is possible. And that famous saying in Filipino – “Nasa Diyos ang Awa, Nasa Tao ang Gawa” through his painstaking training.
Protect yourself at all times, but do not wish for your opponent’s demise.
Just like what he showed against David Diaz in their WBC lightweight title bout, he showed how a fighter should be transformed once the boxing match is over – be human again. Show compassion and respect to your opponent as if he’s your brother. Pacquiao still admires Dela Hoya even if he defeated the legend to a pulp.
This attitude and work ethic will bring back the glory of boxing. MMA is popular because even if the fight is more gruesome than boxing through different application of martial arts, they would respect each other after every bout.
But I think Manny has got only two more fights before hanging the gloves. There’s no more out there to challenge. He has proven himself already. His remaining tests are against Hatton and Mayweather. After that, it’s time to bid the sport good bye.
May you still be as classy and as humble as before Manny. You are truly the People’s Champ.
