A beaming Manny Pacquiao shows up at the post-fight press conference at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. PHOTO BY REM ZAMORA
Philippine Olympic Committee president Jose Cojuangco Jr. expressed no doubt that Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao can bring home the elusive gold medal from the Olympics.
The eight-division world boxing champion has shown interest in donning the national colors in the coming Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games, which have opened the doors to professional boxers like him.
“I believe he (Pacquiao) will win the gold medal,” said Cojuangco. “I know he can do it, but it’s really up to him.”
Pacquiao was elected senator and will have to skip his senatorial duties once he decides to wear those gloves in the Aug. 5-21 Summer Games.
The Philippines has yet to capture a gold in the Olympics and Pacquiao’s possible entry will boost the country’s bid to finally end the drought since joining the Games in 1924 Paris.
Two Filipino boxers—Anthony Villanueva in 1964 Tokyo and Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco in 1996 Altanta—came close to the gold but settled for silver medals in the end.
According to Ed Picson, executive director of the Association of Boxing Alliances of the Philippines, they’re waiting for Pacquiao’s confirmation before reporting the response to the international boxing federation.
Picson said Aiba president Wu Ching-Kuo informed him that Pacquiao has to decide prior to the final Olympic qualifying meet in Azerbaijan on June 14-27.
The ABAP has reserved a slot for Pacquiao, who can compete in the 64kg division. Once he bites the bait, Pacquiao will take over the spot of light welterweight Dennis Galvan.
Pundits believe that Pacquiao will be forced to adjust to the amateur style of fighting, which gives premium on points and speed.
“I see no problem with Manny. He has the speed,” said POC treasurer Julian Camacho./rga