Manny Pacquiao returns to the ring. Relax, there is still just about a month remaining, this is just a super early reminder. Who will Pacquiao fight next? When is the exact date of the fight? Where can I watch the event? Here is all the info for the main event.
Pacquiao might have lost his last two bouts, but he is still one of the more entertaining fighters of this decade. Pacquiao had his last fight against Juan Manuel Marquez in the bag, but the Mexican rumbled to victory with a devastating right hook that knocked down the Filipino. However, after a year removed from the ring, many will wonder if Pacquiao is still capable of fighting against the up-and-comers.
His opponent, Brandon Rios is a brawler. He is 27 years old, seven years younger the Pacquiao. If Pacman stands in the middle of the ring and exchanges punches with the younger foe, the fight will be over. However, Pacquiao is older, wiser and knows better than to stand up to the hard swinging Rios. If anything, Rios' nature of throwing long and powerful punches should work in Pacquiao's favor.
Pacquiao can work in and out. Throw a few of his blinding combos and then retreat. Rios does not mind a dog fight as he possesses a potent chin. At this age and stage in his career, Pacquiao cannot knockout a younger boxer out unless he completely blitzes his opponent early in the bout. Pacquiao needs this fight if he ever expects to get a chance at today's top boxers in weight division in his range.
Would you be surprised if Floyd Mayweather Jr. settles to fight Pacquiao in his last bout as the best pound for pound boxer is chasing the most perfect record in the history of the sport? Rocky Marciano went 49-0 in a career that extended from 1947-1955. Back then, boxers fought constantly. For Rocky, there was no such thing as a one-year break from the game.
Pacquiao has stepped away, but now he is back.
Fight Date: Saturday, Nov. 23
Where to Watch: HBO
On the line will be the WBO International Welterweight title that is currently vacant.
