'RAPID FIRE' GONZALEZ WOWS PACMAN
By Salven L. Lagumbay
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 24 Aug 2007
Rapid Fire (R) in action.
CEBU CITY--While virtually all attention is focused on the Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao here, slowly but surely a Filipino featherweight prospect has been getting his own share of popularity among gym rats and visitors who continue to troop to the Rex 'Wakee' Salud gym for a glimpse of the Pacman's training.
Undefeated featherweight Glenn Gonzalez, whom Pacman has indicated he will negotiate to be included in the October 6 card at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, has been training at Salud's gym the last four days, and saw for himself what's it like to train like the Pacman.
"Grabe pala mag-ensayo si Manny. Buti nalang nakita ko na para may modelo na ako," said Gonzalez yesterday at the end part of training. Gonzalez was allowed by no less than Pacquiao to train with him in the afternoon.
Pacquiao, however, is equally impressed by Gonzalez' talent.
While doing the mitts with celebrated trainer Freddie Roach, Pacman was momentarily stunned to hear the banging of the mitts at the other ring at Salud's gym. "Iba yun ah," Pacman reacted when he heard the loud thudding sound of leathers being hit in multi succession.
At the other ring was Filipino trainer Bebot Balendez, holding the mitts for Gonzalez, who seemed unfazed by the fact he was hitting the mitts side-by-side with a fighter regarded by many as the world's best pound-for-pound.
"I've heard things about that boy. Is he the Rapid Fire?" queried the well-liked Freddie Roach. The multi-awarded trainer said he is trying to make sure Gonzalez, and another fighter Jundy Maraon gets included in the October 6 show.
Both Gonzalez and Maraon are co-managed by North Cotabato Vice-Governor Emmanuel Pinol and Chicago-based Rolando Hiso, although there have been indications Pacquiao might join the group for the trio to manage these two young prospects.
Today, Gonzalez is set to continue his training at the RWS Gym with Pacquiao, and slowly and surely each day, the prospect is getting the confidence he needs as he trains alongside a fighter with a fighting heart bigger than the whole General Santos City.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Salven L. Lagumbay.
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