Unfinished Business

On Sunday, the fistic debate on who is the best will finally be settled when World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez defends his title against three-division world champion Manny Pacquiao. The bout is a rematch of their May 8, 2004 epic battle that ended in a controversial split draw.

After annihilating the best fighters Mexico has to offer including icons Marco Antonio Barrera & Erik Morales, Juan Manuel Marquez is the last Mexican standing. And if their last fight gives you any indication, this promises to be another slam-bang affair. Not only the futures & the respective reputations of both fighters are on the line but also the hopes of their countries rest heavily on their shoulders. The entire Mexican & Filipino nation will literally stop to watch them pummel each other for fame & glory.

Dubbed "Republica Enemy No. 1", Pacquiao is in for a hard fight. Of all the fighters out there, Marquez stylistically is the most difficult fighter for him to figure out. Marquez is known as a wily counterpuncher that will throw anyone offbalance with his repertoire of counters that comes from unusual angles. Although on his recent fights, Marquez was observed to deviate from his usual self & showed willingness to move forward & engage in exchanges in the middle of the ring. This new version of Marquez will prove to be a boon for Pacquiao who excels in blitzing his opponents with a relentless two-fisted attack. We can also note that Pacquiao is lightyears away from the man who fought in their first fight. He now brings to the table improved head & foot movement & a right hook that complements his left. Add these to his widely known left, blazing speed & unmatched stamina and one can see why Pacquiao is widely considered as the second best pound for pound fighter in the world over.

For one day, Filipinos will get a respite from politics & what not & be proud to be a Filipino again. Go Manny!

Fearless Forecast:

Pacquiao wins. What did you expect? We don't care if he wins via KO or unanimous decision. What matters most is that Pacquiao wins. Period.