Pacquiao open media workout amidst Typhoon Juan
By Rene Bonsubre, Jr.
PhilBoxing.com
Mon, 18 Oct 2010
Baguio City ? There was a respectful silence inside the Shape Up Boxing gym when Manny Pacquiao started stretching and warm ups for his Monday afternoon workout. The media were invited to attend and dozens braved the raging Typhoon Juan (Megi) which just hit landfall in Northern Luzon.
The cameras clicked as conditioning coach Alex Ariza assisted Pacquiao in stretching his upper arms. The reporters flocked around Bob Arum who was worried about Pacquiao?s conditioning.
?I don?t interfere with where the fighter wants to train,? Arum said, ?The old Pacquiao would have no problem beating Antonio Margarito. He still has time to bring the old Pacquiao back when he is in LA.?
Under the watchful eyes of Trainer Freddie Roach, Ariza and assistant trainer Buboy Fernandez, the seven division world champion was in a relaxed and playful mood when the session started.
As the TV cameras rolled and the photographers clicked, Pacquiao danced and shadow boxed around the ring. As the minutes passed his blinding hand speed became more evident. He then worked the mitts with Freddie Roach and the impact of his blows echoed around the gym. They worked on body shots, counters and how to stay avoid getting trapped on the ropes. Pacquiao then punched non stop for more than three minutes on the mitts.
The Pacman still wanted more but Roach yelled ?no more?. Streams of sweat cascaded down his face as he proceeded to hit the double-ended bag and speedball. The reporters crowded around Roach who was more optimistic of his boxer?s chances.
The multi-awarded trainer thinks the fight will not last twelve rounds. When asked if it Pacquiao can score an early knockout, Roach said, ?It could happen if he starts fast.?
Outside the winds got stronger. From the glass windows one could see the violent swaying of the trees; a reflection of the ferocity and intensity of the man who carries the weight and expectations of an entire nation.
Pacquiao proceed to skip rope before doing his cooling down routine. He ended his two hour session with a moment of reflection and prayer. Even the great ones acknowledge the presence of a higher power.
Top photo: Pound for pound king and Congressman Manny Pacquiao skips rope unmindful to the heavy rains and gusty winds brought about by super typhoon Juan (Megi) outside the Shape Up Gym at the Cooyeesan Hotel in Baguio City Monday afternoon.
Photo by Dong Secuya.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Rene Bonsubre, Jr..
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