Manny Pacquiao with nothing left to prove, shows us he’s still one of the elite fighters in the sport of boxing.

Manny Pacquiao has always let his game speak for itself.  While many boxers will tell you that they are among the elite fighters in the sport, Pacquiao continues to prove this very fact inside the ring.  What’s almost impressive as his still lightning fast hand speed and timing-altering punch angles is that he continues to do this at the age of 40.   After his win over Keith Thurman to win the WBA Welterweight Title Pacquiao stated, “I’m not that kind of boxer who talks a lot; we were just promoting the fight. I think he did his best, and I did my best. I think we made the fans happy tonight because it was a good fight.”  You’d expect nothing more from a humble man outside the ring and as ferocious inside of it as we’ve seen.

Pacquiao has already established himself as one of the very best of his generation.  On a historical level he is considered one of the greatest to ever compete but now even after all of his accomplishments, it’s time to start talking about another level.  A level of rarefied air of fighters that have won titles and in some cases dominated after the age of 40.  I’m talking the likes of Bernard Hopkins, Archie Moore and George Foreman.  The truth is.. there’s not a ton of names on that list.  Maybe this is the next and possibly the final climb of Pacquiao storied career.  Advancing up the list of the greatest fighters over 40 years of age.  Not that he needs to prove anything to anyone.  Manny could retire today and he’d be remembered as an eight division champion, a fearless warrior who fought just about everyone that was available and made for some of the most exciting fights the sport has ever seen.  He could walk away right now with his ever increasing legacy in tact.  But between you and I, I think Pacquiao still has a lot left in the tank and his competitive spirit is alive as ever.  I’d be surprised if he doesn’t return to the ring next year for what will be another huge fight.  He has plenty of options after defeating a young and hungry champion in Keith Thurman on Saturday night.  In any case, I am just grateful to have witnessed Manny Pacquiao’s career and will continue to marvel at his ability for as long as he puts it on display.

-Tommy Marz

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