By Chris Robinson - As is the case with any worthwhile boxing show, you were sure to find your share of boxing luminaries at the In Harm’s Way event last night in Anaheim, California. The card was highlighted by Nonito Donaire’s destruction over former bantamweight champion Wladimir Sidorenko and Humberto Soto’s successful defense of his WBC lightweight crown as he pulled out a decision over Urbano Antillon in one of the year’s best fights.
Shortly into the post fight press conference I spotted Michael Koncz, advisor to the world’s premier fighter Manny Pacquiao, as he was walking through the halls of the Honda Center in an effort to get some coffee after another taxing day at work. The latest rumor regarding Pacquiao is that of his apparent April 16th date at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas with Shane Mosley being the suitor.
Many are reporting that the fight is all but done yet Koncz was quick to point out that nothing is final as of yet.
“First of all I haven’t’ discussed it with Manny in depth,” Koncz opened up. “When I spoke to him last week on the phone he indicated we would talk about it and decide when I got there. Mosley is one of the recommendations to him but until he gives a final go nothing is for sure.”
Pacquiao will be turning 32 years old in less than a few weeks’ time and is now balancing his role as a Congressman in the province of Sarangani along with his duties as a prizefighter. There have been whispers that the edge he used to carry as a fighter has slightly dulled yet Koncz insists the spirit is still there.
“Absolutely,” Koncz claimed when asked if Pacquiao still has the desire to fight. “It’s evident from his training. Manny is still having fun. When he gets up in the morning there is no complaints about jogging. In the gym he’s having fun and he’s still enjoying it. You can see that in his personality and in training camp in the gym and in the ring. So as long as he’s enjoying it and it doesn’t feel like it’s work he’s going to keep boxing.”
Koncz met Pacquiao over eight years ago and claims that he has found a way to stick around by simply showing his loyalty to the eight-division world champion. Koncz, like many associated with the General Santos City fighter, has seen his name often thrust into the spotlight and while he hasn’t always been portrayed as the most affable of individuals he has a laid back demeanor about himself that can be appreciated.
As our brief conversation came to a close I asked Koncz whether or not he expected such a crazy amount of success and fame to come from Pacquiao’s achievements, especially over the past few years. Pacquiao has always seemed to be a hero to those in his country but his status went to a whole new level after he beat Oscar De La Hoya two years ago and then continued preying on seemingly larger and stronger opponents.
Giving his take, the Canadian was candid in his delivery.
“No. We’ve talked about that. We never dreamt that he would become one of the most popular fighters in the world. And not only is he popular as a fighter, he has became to rock star status where he is recognized even when we aren’t in boxing circles.”
Source: examiner.com
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