Manny Pacquiao has a big fight this coming December. He will face no other than his boyhood idol Oscar de la Hoya at the MGM Grand Hotel on December 6, 2008.

After that fight, Manny says that he will have two more, and then retire in 2009.

Having made millions of dollars already, Manny is sure to earn millions more in the fight against de la Hoya. Quite enough to retire on, I would say. After almost a decade of fighting in the international boxing arena, Manny’s name is already etched in history. He has four world championship belts and is currently hailed as the best pound-for-pound boxer in the world.

Fame and fortune are already his; what more could he ask for? His mother is said to have been advising him to retire for a while now. I think he’s wise to do so while his body and mind are still unaffected by the punishing blows he receives in the ring. Then he can really enjoy the fruits of his labor.

So what’s next after retirement?

Manny hasn’t ruled out politics. He has tried it before, and lost his bid for a seat representing the first district of  South Cotabato. He has refused to comment when asked about a possible re-entry into the world of politics.

I’ve already made known how I feel about Manny going into politics. It’s been more than a year, and that hasn’t changed. Even if the time comes when Manny no longer has to juggle boxing and politics, I still feel that he should leave politics to the politicians.

Manny can do so much more for the country without going into that field. Here’s a short list for starters:

* speaking engagements at schools to inspire and encourage

* setting up a foundation for underprivileged students

* sponsoring and appearing at physical fitness events all over the country

* building gyms in cities outside Manila

He can use his fame and fortune to serve his countrymen on the ground, instead of from an isolated political tower.

But this is a long way off.

First, there’s de la Hoya to face. Manny has to beat him to ensure a truly golden retirement for himself.

image used with permission from Newscom

Post from: Filipina Soul

The Pacman sealed his place in boxing history with the win over David Diaz  on Saturday, June 28, 2008, at the Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. Even after 8 rounds, Manny still looked fierce. In the ninth round, he claimed the WBC lightweight championship by knockout. It is his fourth championship in four weight classes, already having belts in the flyweight, junior featherweight and super featherweight divisions.

Image details: Manny Pacquiao v David Diaz served by picapp.com

More fight photos after the cut:

Image details: Manny Pacquiao v David Diaz served by picapp.com

Image details: Manny Pacquiao v David Diaz served by picapp.com

Image details: Manny Pacquiao v David Diaz served by picapp.com

Image details: Manny Pacquiao v David Diaz served by picapp.com

According to Diaz, what did him in was Manny’s speed. He “didn’t see the punches coming”. Diaz was gracious in his loss, saying Manny “was a better man tonight”.

Manny was very professional in his win, showing concern for his opponent even after he sent him sprawling on the canvas.

Congratulations, Manny!

Post from: Filipina Soul

Manny Pacquiao on April 14, 2007, right after capturing the WBC International Featherweight Championship.

Manny Pacquiao has a fight.

Saturday, June 28, 2008 at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada. His target: the WBC Lightweight Championship. His opponent: Mexico’s David Diaz, who is the current champion in the 135-lb division.

In March 2008, Pacquiao defeated Juan Manuel Marquez by the slimmest of margins, for the WBC super featherweight crown. I watched that fight live on TV, and those with me commented that Pacquiao didn’t look too healthy/strong in that weight division. It seems it’s about time that he moved up to the lightweight division.

With a win on Saturday, the Pacman will make boxing history, as the first Asian boxer to win four world titles in different weight classes.

Have you made your plans for Saturday?

Post from: Filipina Soul