The Texas Shoot Out: Pacquiao vs. Clottey
Written by Troy J. Hines, Saturday March 13 2010
On Saturday, March 13th, the biggest “gambling heist” will become reality once Manny Pacquiao (50-3-2 [38kos]) and Joshua Clottey (35-3-0 [20kos]) engage after the first bell. As guests of Jerry Jones in Cowboys Stadium, the casinos in Las Vegas will be keeping a keen eye on their new rival. How much money Las Vegas will lose, versus, how much money Texas, Jerry Jones, and Bob Arum (Founder/ CEO of Top Rank) will gain is unknown at the moment.
However, the average sellout crowd in Vegas involves 20,000 fans, whereas 41,000 seats have been sold for the event to be held at the home of “America’s Team." What we do know, is that the shrewd business man in Arlington, Texas has won his first battle against the large concerns of “Sin City."
For many, the Pacquiao vs. Clottey match-up is bittersweet as the taste buds of the fans have been anticipating the entree (Pacquiao vs. Mayweather). But I believe boxing fans are in for an outstanding event that will encompass strategy, great defense, and the potential to witness human caused unconsciousness.
Perhaps it is a flaw of mankind to enjoy licensed assault on the world’s largest stage. But truthfully, what brings nations together more than routing for one's “countryman” in battle? There is no doubt that Filipino’s and Ghanaians alike, will be waving their flags, hosting fight parties, and shedding tears at war’s end-- regardless of the winner.
Let’s look at the Tale of the Tape:
Height: Pacquiao 5’6” ½ / Clottey 5’8”
ADVANTAGE CLOTTEY BY 1” ½
Reach: Pacquiao 67” / Clottey 70”
ADVANTAGE CLOTTEY BY 3”
KO%: Pacquiao 69.09% / Clottey 51.26%
Contrary to popular belief, Clottey will be a true test as to where Pacquiao stands in the welterweight division. Clottey is a big welterweight. The “Grand Master” will probably weigh in around 160lbs the day of the fight; dwarfing the aggressive southpaw from Manila.
Some have argued that Pacquiao’s speed will disrupt the durable fighter, who often prefers absorbing punishment over evading it. We saw Clottey receive a thunderous combination from Miguel Cotto, and respond with theatre; shaking his head and smiling in defiance, instead of countering with violence.
It is of interesting note, that Zab Judah, who may not be as skilled, but is as fast as Manny Pacquiao, suffered a unanimous decision loss after being cut by an uppercut (originally thought to be a head butt). So is it really speed that will make the difference, or skill?
In addition, Clottey has proven he can fight offensively when provoked, as he did in his convincing win against the late Diego Corrales in 2007. That version of Joshua Clottey has the ability to give problems to any welterweight in boxing - even Manny Pacquiao.
Pacquaio’s legendary coach, Freddie Roach, may have some things to say about that. Roach believes that Clottey’s defense is too one dimensional. In the words of Freddie Roach on Clottey’s defense, “…he just puts up earmuffs.” Many of Roach’s sound bites display his belief that Clottey is “easy work." We will certainly see on Saturday night.
Manny Pacquiao is a relentless aggressor who has proven his ability to finish his opponents. In his last four fights, he has won by either TKO, KO, or forced the other fighter to quit on the stool. He is indeed a “man on fire”.
Pacquiao has that unique quality as a boxer who truly enjoys fighting. Like Clottey, Pacquiao has been caught “clapping his gloves” once his opponent lands a shot. The difference is that he immediately shoots back. No hesitation, he reengages his adversary and is always working towards his goal. Not a win. Not a dominating performance. Pacquiao wants a knockout.
All indicators and gut feelings, other than the “Tale of the Tape," have led most boxing pundits to vote in favor of Pacquiao by way of unanimous decision. But why? The real question is, can Clottey win a decision in Arlington, TX in front of a primarily Pacquiao supported crowd, and Pacquiao supported viewers? We all know that answer. And it’s no.
As far as judging is concerned, fairness is as foreign to modern prizefighting as the African-American is to the current heavyweight division. What is known in regards to this fight that no one talks about? It is the fact that the judges know, the referee knows, and the fans know, everyone wants to see Pacquiao fight Floyd Mayweather, Jr. Clottey’s only chance of a fair decision is in leaving it up to no one but his right hand.
When Clottey attempts to make the fight rough, or an inside war, the referee will separate the men immediately. If Clottey dominates a round, only one judge will see it while the others will cast the “fan ballot." The Ghanaian must dig down deep and empty his soul on that canvas to pave his path to stardom. But the truth is, Pacquiao is too good, too fast, and on March 13th we will be a little closer to that far away place. The fight we all want to see. Yeah, that fight.
ADVANTAGE PACQUIAO by 17.81%
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And what happens if both Manny and Mayweather lose?