Boxing in back seat for now

MANILA, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao was in high spirits talking about politics over dinner with former Rep. Monico Puentevella, PDP-Laban executive director Ron Munsayac and friends in his Los Angeles home Tuesday night, looking fully recovered from the beating he took in losing a decision to WBA welterweight super champion Yordenis Ugas in Las Vegas last weekend.

There was no talk of boxing at the dinner table. Pacquiao is seriously considering to file his candidacy for the presidency on Oct. 1 and will make an announcement of his decision soon. He spoke about the country’s problems and how a Chief Executive with integrity, vision and a heart for the masses could make a difference in turning the national fortunes around.

A plan to consult an ophthalmologist to examine what was initially feared to be a corneal abrasion in his right eye was scuttled as Pacquiao appeared to be fine. In the dressing room right after the fight, Pacquiao took five stitches to sew up a cut over his left eye. A day later, he had difficulty opening both eyes widely. But with two days of complete rest, Pacquiao was back to normal, welcoming visitors in his home and playing chess.

Pacquiao’s lawyer Tom Falgui said before leaving for Manila, he discussed financial issues with the Senator who was sharp as usual. “No problem with his mental faculties,” said Falgui who arrived home last Wednesday. “He did mental calculations like before.” Pacquiao and his family will leave Los Angeles for Manila tonight (US time). Falgui said when he returns, Pacquiao will decide whether or not to undergo a complete physical and mental examination.

“I’m sure Senator will review what happened when he comes home,” said Falgui. “We’ve talked to his physiotherapist Dr. Sean Hampton who suggested some things to do, regardless of Senator continuing to fight or not. Dr. Hampton came on board only in the last three weeks of training and made good observations.”

Puentevella said Pacquiao is none the worse for wear. “He’s A-OK,” said the former Bacolod congressman and mayor. “He’s in high spirits, like as if nothing happened. We had a sumptuous dinner and no more talk about boxing. It’s all about 2022 now. As Manny remarked, God’s ways are not ours.”

WBC bantamweight champion Nonito Donaire Jr., who watched the Pacquiao-Ugas fight at ringside, said there’s nothing left for the Filipino icon to prove or do. “Manny has done enough for the sport,” said Donaire. “His health is the utmost importance at this stage. His legacy is already cemented. As I stated before, Manny is always dangerous and showed flashes of his brilliance that made everyone love him.”