In the modern boxing world, there are matches that never take place but still make fans mention forever – and the competition between the “prince” Naseem Hamed and the legendary Manny Pacquiao is a typical example.
Naseem Hamed-British puncher with arrogant style and dangerous punches-stirred the boxing village in the late 1990s. With an irregular but speedy expression and power, Hamed is always the focus of every stand.
Meanwhile, Manny Pacquiao-the legendary Filipino-is the symbol of the 21st century boxing. This left-handed puncher has won the championship in 8 different weight classes, with 62 victories in 72 matches (39 Ko), dubbed “Pac-Man” with the speed and ability to emit continuous as stormy. Pacquiao once lowered Barrera with technical Knockout in 2003 – something Hamed could not do.
If this dream match takes place in Featherweight (126 lbs), where both of them ever reached the peak, who will win?
According to former champion Joe Calzaghe, Pacquiao has the advantage of speed, ability to approach and comprehensive techniques. On international boxing forums, most fans also leaned towards the Philippines fighter, saying that Pacquiao would win with Knockout in the 8th or 9th half. The Ring magazine – a “Bible” of Boxing – also said Pacquiao was more dominant in tactics and physical fitness.
However, it is impossible to underestimate Hamed. With the ability to attack from unexpected corners, he could completely create a quick knock-out if Pacquiao loopholes. It was the unpredictable power from the “prince” that helped him defeat many opponents in a single blow.
Although just a “fantasy match”, the competition between Hamed and Pacquiao is still an endless controversial topic in the boxing community. One is a stage artist, one who is a street warrior – both representing two different schools but both memorable.
If you are a boxing lover, this is definitely a match you will want to see, even just in imagination.