Our David takes on Goliath

image sourced from here

When our very own Manny Pacquiao takes on Mexico's Antonio Margarito this 13th of November in Texas, expect an epic battle of biblical proportions. Giving away 4 1/2 inches in height and a full 6 inches in reach, this will be nothing short of a David versus Goliath battle -- almost literally. This is one fight that needs no hyperboles. Margarito is half a head taller and at least one fist longer. The numbers speak for themselves.

Don't kid yourself folks, even against a mediocre taller-longer opponent, giving away that much in height and reach is no small matter. And Margarito is no mediocre opponent. He is the man responsible for Miguel Cotto's first defeat. The man can punch. And the man can take punches. As to his sullied reputation for coloring outside the lines, that should cause for more worries. Pro boxing is not exactly a gentleman sport. Manny should be ready for anything. 

But I have faith in our champion. Height and reach is one thing (alright, two things). Speed another. And as Manny has proven over and over again, it is speed that kills. But let me stop right here and not pretend I know more than Freddie Roach. I will not even offer an opinion as to how Manny should fight this fight. I'm sure the boxing genius has another ace of a fight plan up his sleeve. And Manny should follow that -- and only that.

And Manny will need every last bit of that genius in his corner. I exaggerate not when I say this is going to be Manny's toughest test. The highest peak he will scale. This will be for yet another record setting 8 world crowns in 8 weight divisions. No other fighter comes even close. Least of all, that motormouth (who shall not be named) whose own genius is in finding every excuse to not to step inside the same ring with Manny. Sugar Ray Leonard, who doesn't have an 0 record, ruled in 5 weight divisions. Oscar dela Hoya in 6.

While we should not start celebrating just yet, let us all remember one thing from the bible, it was David that won that battle against Goliath.

I can't wait.