NEws

Manny Pacquiao vs Ricky Hatton

"Pacquiao vs Hatton!" "Pacquiao vs. Hatton!" Pacquiao vs Hatton!" There seems to be an outcry for Manny Pacquiao (the fighting pride of the Philippines) to fight Ricky Hatton of England. In fact, news reports from has it that Manny will fight Ricky next year. Good. I have nothing against this fight. In fact I think Pacquiao vs Hatton will be an exciting one as both fighters love action and would press for it. People in Pacland (mannypacquiao.ph) are pumped up for the match and one has already prepared a banner plus a title "Never Back Down". So true, both fighters are aggressive and always moving forward.

There are observations that Ricky Hatton is tailored fit for Manny - it means Ricky's style is very much suited to Pacquiao and I agree. Others think Hatton is a moving target...I agree but not an easy one as he pushes, shoves, and wrestles his opponent when needed. Against Mayweather, Hatton used it - the Englishman used it so much that the boxing match almost turned into a wrestling one. Ricky uses it to put off his opponent's rhythm but it didn't work against Mayweather as the latter could handle it. I believe Manny will study on how to counter Ricky's tendency to roughouse his opponent. Other than that I reckon it will be good for Manny and his camp not to underestimate this guy as it leads to complacency and disaster. Manny is at his best when he is the underdog and odds are stacked against him (Ledwaba, Barrera 2003, De La Hoya). No, I'm not saying that Manny's underestimating Hatton but some people in his entourage might convince him otherwise. It is important for the Pound for Pound king to stay level-headed and work hard to win. Ricky Hatton holds a 140-pound title belt from IBO by no means he is a pushover and this should be an extra motivation to Pacquiao - to win a junior welterweight crown. Same goes for English fans. If they know what's good for them they shouldn't belittle Manny Pacquiao's punching power.