Heroes and Icons

05/30/09

So, I was skimming through Time Magazine's 100 Most Influencial People Issue, and whose deep-set eyes do I find staring me down? I shouldn't be surprised, Manny had swept the world off its feet and placed it in a boxing ring (of all the places!). He brought to the world a new love for the sport and an even greater respect for his people. I could not imagine any athlete - Filipino or otherwise - who deserves this honor more than Mr. Pacquiao. I was filled with an insane sense of pride as I read this article, so i'd like to share i'd with you in teh hopes that you might feel the same way- let's see what Lennox Lewis had to say:

Manny Pacquiao
By Lennox Lewis

Pound for pound, Manny Pacquiao is the best boxer in the world. But even more important than holding that distinction, Manny has connected with the people of his home country, the Philippines, to the point where he's almost like a god. The people have rallied behind him and feel like they're a part of him, because they can see his talent, his dedication, his grace and his class. The grip he holds over the Philippines is similar to Nelson Mandela's influence in South Africa. I can surely see Manny becoming the Philippine President one day.

In fact, he already ran for Congress in the Philippines but lost, in part because voters thought he could do more for the country as an inspirational champion boxer. I agree with the Filipino people. Manny, 30, already has a true global reach, and his influence will only expand as he gets better. Manny is from the Muhammad Ali school. He's a boxer, a puncher and a mover — a champion in four weight divisions. He doesn't stand there and take shots. He throws that wicked jab and is so quick to dodge trouble.

Boxing needs a guy like Manny. Too often, when something positive develops, the sport takes two steps backward; you never know where the black eye is going to come from. With Manny, you don't have to worry about that. He just loves the sport and knows he's carrying the hopes of his country in the ring.

Lewis, the former world heavyweight champion, is a boxing commentator for HBO Sports

Fast Fact: Pacquiao is the first athlete the Philippine Postal Corp. has honored with his own stamp