End of an era?
As Manny Pacquiao prepares to step in the ring for what could be his last fight on April 9 against Timothy Bradley, there have been differing reactions from fans and supporters alike.
Some fans are sad to see the eight-division world champion go battle for the final time, while others feel like it’s about time he hangs up his gloves.
RJ Bucu, a 27-year-old sports junkie from Quezon City, is feeling emotional over Pacquiao’s looming retirement, saying “Lungkot na lungkot ako kasi bawat laban nun, inaabangan nating mga Filipino.”
Star Hotshots’ Cebuano ballboy Maning Vilbar, meanwhile, is just thankful for all of Pacquiao’s contributions to the Philippines.
“Nagpapasalamat ako na binigyan nya ng karangalan ang bansa natin bago sya mag-retire,” he said.
Renz Paguio, a 23-year-old events coordinator, believes that leaving the sport is the best decision for Pacquiao as he embarks on another journey, this time in the political ranks.
“It’s about time na magretire na si Pacquiao kasi matanda na sya. 10-time division in different weight classes, that’s a record. Kung tatakbo sya as politician, kailangan na talaga nya mag-retire,” he said.
Pacquiao is seeking a seat in the Senate this upcoming May elections.
“It’s been a long time coming. Sana dito pag sinabi nyang tapos na, wala ng backtracking,” Josh Buenaventura, an account manager, said.
“Tama na yung mag-retire na sya kasi madami na syang na-achieve,” said 37-year-old Larry Onguda, a barber.
But for some, like bouncer Jigs Devino, they still don’t believe that this will be Pacquiao’s swan song.
“Di pa ako satisfied kasi kailangan pa nya patunayan sa sarili nya na kaya nya matalo si (Floyd) Mayweather,” he said.
Pacquiao, if he never sets foot in a boxing ring again, is leaving a legacy that would be talked about in boxing for decades to come.
He built his reputation as a legend on his his stunning speed and vicious power in full display–leaving fans a lot to remember about storied career.
Of course, his second round knockout of Ricky Hatton stands out the most.
“(Pinakamemorable sa akin yung) kay Hitman kasi pinabagsak nya yun,” said vendor Richard Balena.
Buenaventura remembered watching that fight: “Parang nag-CR lang ako, tapos na ang laban.”
Nico Capuchino, 26, highlighted the gravity of the fight, sayinh, “Yung laban na yun, yun ang turning point ng career ni Pacquiao.”
Paguio, meanwhile, was most impressed with Pacquiao’s win over the bigger Miguel Cotto. “Di ko inexpect yun.”
There were also some who just couldn’t forget Pacquiao’s defeat to fierce rival Juan Manuel Marquez, where the Filipino pride was knocked out cold.
“Doon sya pinakanahirapan eh,” said bouncer Cardo Caro.
“Masakit sa atin yun. Lagi nating inaasahan na iaangat tayo ni Manny, pero nung natulog sya, para din tayong bumagsak,” Bucu added.