The Champ

I am not a fan of boxing. When I was a child, I used to wonder how it even became a Sport with all the blood and violence that it showcases. I specially hate it when my parents are glued in front of the television, watching a boxing fight, on a Sunday, while I had to sulk in my room because I can’t watch my favorite cooking show at the other channel. 

But I am a fan of Manny Pacquiao.

Not because of his boxing career but because of his personality. How he takes care of his family and how he looks after his mom. I once saw him attending the mass at St. Francis of Assisi Parish with his wife and kids, and I personally noticed how humble he is. Walang ere. He returned the smiles of the church patrons, knelt down and quietly prayed with his family. No controversy has tarnished my love of him. Though I am not a fan of his political career, Manny has always been my champ.

Grabbed from my Facebook Newsfeed

Last night, I spent some two hours on queue at Sky Cable customer hotline. Though I still can’t swallow how boxing works, I applied for PPV to watch Manny’s fight. Of all his fights, I’ve only watched the last two. Jinx ata ako, he was a loser on both.

This morning, our unit was jam packed with Pacman enthusiasts, my parents, my in laws, my nephews and nieces. We were all full of hope and anticipation. Most were screaming, cheering for Manny even though he can’t hear. But suddenly, our home’s mood turned upside down – and the whole room was painted in gray.

I thought he was dead.

My MIL cried, my nieces/nephews screamed and I was out of breath – covering my mouth with my right hand as if trying to control the words that might come out. I was stunned! And when I saw how Jinkee wailed, I got heartbroken. As a wife, I can’t imagine how terrible she felt and how devastated she was during that time. It could be mind-blowing to see your husband/spouse/partner lying flat on his/her face, cold and blank. For minutes, or actually hours (I only got sober tonight), I felt weak -- truly, no matter how rich or successful you may become (or you’ve become) – no money can buy your own version of Manny (your loved ones). Buti na lang din, di boksingero and “Manny” ko :)

IMO, I wish PacMan will retire after this fight. But then again, who am I to say that? My wish for him is that he will be alright, and he will be back to his kids safe, happy and healthy. He is still my champ, and no KO will change that.