The statement, “Belts don’t make me!” famously quoted by Floyd Mayweather Jr. starts to somehow all make sense in a boxing world in search of a hero. For decades, boxing has declared its champions by the different belts and weight classes. The Pacman has clearly shattered the expectations of many, yet more impressive than any performance, for Manny, there seems to be a deeper meaning to all of this. Although Floyd’s statement has its truth, the question itself leads to a bigger one - what is it that makes you?
It was 7:57pm at the Gaylord Texan hotel in Dallas, Texas, that a relaxed Manny Pacquiao addressed some close friends right after his weigh in with Joshua Clottey. As he sat on the couch it was clear that his thoughts ran heavy and there was a lot on his mind. Surprisingly though, it wasn’t about the fight. As he tried to say something, Manny hesitated and gave a long pause before saying in a mild, calm manner, “I don’t like when people get mistreated.” Although the whole story of the situation was not fully addressed, Manny’s statement is self-explanatory. He continued by mentioning, “Always put yourself in the place of others and ask yourself how would it feel to be in that person’s shoes.” The room remained quiet as Manny continued emphasizing his thoughts and finished with a statement thatshould be engrained in the minds of many after that evening, “Be nice to everyone.”
Many question Manny’s decision to runfor political office and there are many debates as to how effective he will be. Nevertheless the fact remains, he truly wants to help. In an ESPN interview, Pacquiao states,“I know what it is like to not eat for one day.”Even so, one day may hardly be the case as the poverty in the Philippines has increased significantly since the devastating flood last fall.
There is no doubt that Manny gave a stunning performance by dominating and making Clottey fight outside of his normal style—a performanceby Manny that looked so easy due to his overwhelming assault. But truly, there is an admirable quality about him that far exceeds any gift or talent he possesses: The art of remaining humble.
In a sport that relies heavily on dedicated training regimens, proper execution, and the obtaining of belts in different weight classes, every boxer strives to attain such heights. Although you can work hard for these accomplishments, there seems to be a talent that comes naturally and within the truest of warriors. It is the talent to care for others and put your success last when there seems to be a world and reality outside of the competitive sport. When you have the heart of a champion, who needs belts?
Source: 8countnews.com
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