Stringent test on the cards for Pacquiao comeback

THE SPECULATIVE diagnosis by neurosurgeon Dr. Rustico Jimenez on Manny Pacquiao recently may lead to a more stringent medical test before the eight-division world champion gets the go-signal to return to the ring.

Jimenez, president of the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, caused a big stir recently when he said, without the benefit of actual examination, that Pacquiao is showing early signs of Parkinson’s disease.

Jimenez drew his conclusion when he reportedly saw Pacquiao’s hand twitch a bit during a television interview.

Pacquiao’s health has become an issue following the one-punch, sixth-round knockout he suffered against Juan Manuel Marquez on Dec. 8 in Las Vegas.

As a result, Pacquiao was automatically slapped a 90-day ban from fighting by the Nevada Athletic Commission. He was also barred from sparring for the first 60 days of the ban.

After the suspension expires on March 9, Pacquiao needs to reapply for his boxing license and get medical clearance.

Although Pacquiao has already passed a mandatory CT-scan at University Medical Center in Las Vegas on Dec. 8 and a MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) test at Cardinal Santos Hospital in San Juan, the Nevada commission could still ask American neurologists to conduct further evaluation owing to Jimenez’s unsolicited opinion.

Promoter Bob Arum wants his prized fighter to undergo more extensive brain testing at the Lou Revo Center of Las Vegas Cleveland Clinic before he makes arrangements for Pacquiao’s next fight.

If Arum manages to forge a deal with Marquez’s camp, Pacquiao-Marquez V is likely to be held in September, giving Pacquiao ample time to recover from the trauma of being knocked out cold.