Pacquiao makes history

This will be the headline tomorrow in pretty much every newspaper in the Philippines. Manny Pacquiao, a little over an hour ago did the unthinkable, he won his 7th world title in his 7th weight division against one of the best in the business.

If anyone dismisses Manny's victory because of the beating Cotto took last year, please slap that person for trying to rain on the parade of one of the greatest boxers of all time. Regardless of what happens in the future, Manny Pacquiao has cemented himself in boxing history along the names of Louis, Frazier, Ali, Leonard, Duran, Haggler, Hearns, Armstrong and Robinson. He has given everything we need to see that he is the pound for pound best in boxing and #2 and beyond seems like it all comes after a huge dropoff.

I had thought Cotto was going to win via decision but unfortunately, greatness has other plans than to allow some boxing fan to predict an outcome. After a flash knockdown in the 3rd round, Manny gave Cotto the punch I knew could be a key to victory, a huge uppercut from which I don't think Cotto ever recovered. If you had any questions about Manny's speed and power at welterweight, consider yourself served.

Simply put, I have never seen a boxer like Manny Pacquiao and he's just showed that no matter what distractions he may find, when fight night comes around, there is nothing remotely there to suggest he can be phased or defeated. If losing the fight wasn't bad enough, it came via stoppage but to Cotto a nod of approval for his courage to insist on going out on his shield even though it was obvious he was going to lose.

To sum it up all: Manny was too fast, too powerful and just too good for the Puerto Rican icon. More on this later.

Cheers