PACQUIAO WATCH: Focus and Attention
By Edwin G. Espejo
PhilBoxing.com
Tue, 05 Feb 2008
World boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao's demeanor in and outside the ring is a study in contrast.
Ever since he got derailed by Juan Manuel Marquez when they fought to a controversial draw four years ago, his attitude inside the ring has become nothing but more intense and focused.
True, the intensity of his preparation may sometimes level with that of the competition. But none will ever question his work ethic against all comers once inside the ring.
I remember how he once has to fight a Thai opponent so that he could share some Christmas presents "for the boys".
That was against Fahsan (3K Battery) Por Thawachai in December 2004.
Recah Trinidad of Philippine Daily Inquirer swore Manny was already grasping for breath by the time he knocked out the poor Thai in the fourth round. That was when Manny was still spending hours on end on the pool table and friendly card games with his friends in our hometown General Santos while supposedly in serious training.
Still, Manny scored a spectacular knockout - literally lifting the hapless Thai on both feet with a powerful hook that looked liked an uppercut.
Manny would drop his following fight with Erik Morales, his only loss since moving up in weight from flyweight in 1999.
Never one to badmouth his opponent, Manny is a gentleman outside the ring. But he is as ferocious as a lion defending his pride inside it.
That is essentially the character of Manny. A man with singular focus and attention to the task at hand.
He is in his most dangerous self when facing an enemy one on one.
The same could very well apply when dealing with a friend or somebody who he has some business to deal with.
While he will bash in the glory of his fame and fortune, Manny's attention span is notoriously short outside the ring in the sea of adulators.
Why am I bringing this out?
Just a piece of advice to those who want to get Manny's attention. Better deal with him one on one to get your desired results. For as long as it is not inside the ring with his gloves on.
So Marquez, beware.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Edwin G. Espejo.
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