‘Hands of Stone’ awaits Pacquiao

It won’t be a cakewalk for Manny Pacquiao when he battles International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior featherweight champion Benedict (Lehlo) Ledwaba of South Africa in a scheduled 12-round title bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas tomorrow morning (Manila time).

Pacquiao hasn’t faced a tougher opponent. Ledwaba’s a clinical ring technician, an elusive target, and a vicious body puncher. But Pacquiao isn’t fazed. He promises a brawl to end all brawls, a fight to the finish. And when the smoke clears, Pacquiao expects to become only the third Filipino–after Dodie Boy Peñalosa and Luisito Espinosa–to win world titles in two different divisions.

Ledwaba, 29, began boxing when he was nine and claimed he lost only three of 160 amateur fights before turning pro in 1990–five years before Pacquiao’s debut. He’s known as the "Hands of Stone," like Roberto Duran–a tribute to his power.

Boxing News editor Claude Abrams described Ledwaba as "ruthless." Abrams added: "What makes Ledwaba impressive to watch is his thoughtfulness– the way he breaks down an opponent patiently. He goes about his work in a cold-eyed, calm, methodical manner reminiscent of Azumah Nelson. Ledwaba, who has all the skills … can punch with accuracy and considerable power."

Abrams said Ledwaba is "a quality act" and "if you like classy boxing and admire a superb technician with power, he’s your man."

Ledwaba likes to work behind his left jab, which he sometimes doubles, and hammer the body. A left hook to the ribs knocked out Eduardo Alvarez in Ledwaba’s third title defense last year. It was also a relentless body attack that Ledwaba used to demolish another challenger Ernesto Grey.

In an overseas phone call the other day, Pacquiao told The STAR he’s prepared for Ledwaba’s body assault. He’s worked hard to strengthen his midsection–once his weak spot. He’s ready for whatever Ledwaba will dish out.

Pacquiao, manager Marty Elorde and business manager Rod Nazario left Manila for the US last May 17. They stayed in San Francisco for a week then moved to Los Angeles before flying to Las Vegas last Tuesday.

In the fightnews.com website, Ledwaba said Pacquiao should be no problem.

"I saw a tape of his fight," said Ledwaba. "He’s a tall southpaw, good fighter, comes out aggressive but I don’t think he can handle my style and power. We’re well prepared for anything he brings in and fans will see an exciting show. He’s going to see what the ‘Hands of Stone’ is made of. I feel great. I’m in good shape and ready to go. I hope he is, too."