End of an era

And with that one decisive counter-punch to end the sixth, Juan Manuel Marquez ended the era of Manny Pacquiao. The greatest Filipino athlete of all time. Make no mistakes about it, that is it -- this is the end. There is no more getting up from being knocked out that way. No one has. And Manny, the politician/actor/tv-host/pastor/boxer surely will not be the first one to do it. He no longer has the passion. He is a fat rich man. And boxing is a cruel sport driven by hunger.

Well Manny, thanks for the memories. It was a fun ride while it lasted and I enjoyed every second of it. You were a great champion. And I am proud to call you my own. On and off the ring, you did the Filipino proud. Even in defeat, you are, as always, ever the gracious and classy sportsman. We are all proud of you still.

But time hang up those gloves. Enjoy your wealth and your health. Boxing is no longer the sport for you. Take a deep breath and maybe even a sigh of relief for you are now free to do the everything else you've always been itching to do.