In my opinion, this fight isn't just all about the money, but also about the legacy and fame of Manny Pacquiao. Dela Hoya is not just boxing's cash cow, he was and still is the face of boxing for the past 8 or 10 years. Fighting him won't just give Manny the money, but should he defeat him, it will put him in a much prestigous place in the history books, and his fame will skyrocket. He can be considered a living legend and should already be able to carry a PPV by himself.
Manny is at a disadvantage in this fight, there is no question about that. But that's what makes him a great fighter, he is willing to take risks.
I think this is a fight that Manny can win via decision. I doubt if he can KO Oscar. But I'm not counting the out the very big possibility that he will be KOed by Oscar. With Oscar's advantage in size and power, that's almost a given, and I don't think its a shame if it happens.
But I don't see Oscar as a badass, like Margarito or Cotto. He's more of a boxer type, with power. Fighting him is not as dangerous as the two. Manny won't take a beating or get punished. He may be KOed and stopped but not brutalized. Of course you would remember Oscar's fights with Vargas and Mayorga, where you can really see fire in his eyes as those fighters really got unto his skin. But I don't see him as a natural badass killer that would punish you in the ring, especially now at this point in his career.
Plus, Manny is not that easy to hit especially against an older, slower boxer (compared to him). He can use his speed and quickness, get in, get out. Its a tough fight for him, but if he comes in prepared, he might just be able to score an upset.
That's what I like in this sport, you can't always predict who loses and wins. Mao nang awayon gyud ning mga match up, di kay kutob lang sa istorya.. hehehe
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