If you were able to watch the historic dream match between Manny Pacquiao and Oscar Dela Hoya, you can pick up a lot of lessons from it. One is that you don’t judge fighters by how much they weigh or how large they look. It still goes way back to the time where we all believe the practice makes perfect. That theory will always remain and it was proven once again.
Just imagine the betting odds before the fight where Dela Hoya was practically given a 100% chance of winning over Pacquiao. Laying down the odds of how it is easier to step down to a weight level rather than move up was their only basis. Yet after all that has been said and done, we saw smaller and faster fighter prevail in what many call as an upset. For a fighter winning all but one round is hardly an upset.
Saving face for the sake that they never gave the small fella chance should not deprive him of his dedication and hard work. This is totally foul. Why call it an upset when Pacquiao practically destroyed Dela Hoya from the opening bell? This is totally unfair and goes way beyond the proper means of providing respect for people who have proven their worth.
Regardless, size is not always the reason for winning. Heart and determination are still important. In the case of Manny Pacquiao, it was all about preparation and determination. That is why he has gotten the tag best pound for pound fighter today.
Originally posted on December 8, 2008 @ 6:21 am