Pacquiao vs Folayang?

Mixed martial arts king Eduard “Landslide” Folayang would love to fight Manny Pacquiao in a boxing match.

In an interview on our program “Hardball with Bill Velasco” over dwAN 1206 AM, the two-time ONE Championship world lightweight champion told this writer that he would be more than happy to square off against the eight-division world champion.

“It would be my honor to get into the ring with Sen. Manny,” Folayang declared. “I’d be glad to do a boxing exhibition with him.”

Though Folayang is considered the face of mixed martial arts in the Philippines, he added that his sport needs an icon like Pacquiao to further the growth of mixed martial arts outside the country. 

“We need someone like a Manny Pacquiao to carry the flag in our sport,” the former wushu national athlete admitted. “Abroad, when you say Filipino, they say ‘Manny Pacquiao.’”

Though Folayang is considerably heavier (169 pounds compared to Pacquiao’s 147-pound welterweight limit), part of his advantage would be blunted by the thicker gloves used in boxing, as well as the difference in striking style. Besides, there would be no kicking.  Also, the two could decide to fight at a catchweight, as Pacquiao did against Miguel Cotto, Joshua Clottey and Antonio Margarito. 

But all in all, boxing exhibitions take it easy on the combatants. It’s all a show for three rounds or so, bringing “what if” scenarios to life. It would be a sight to see Filipino icon versus Filipino icon. No video game could give us that.