In an old BSO archive I had a six-year-old draft of my Mayweather-Pacquiao prediction. Six years later, the only thing that has really changed is I have a few gray hairs, my daughter is about to start middle school next year and I have a fat sleeping Beagle who is probably more well known than me who is probbaly snoring on my couch.
In boxing anything can happen, but styles makes fight and there are certain things that just make this a matchup problem for Pacquiao.
Pacquiao is susceptible to counter punchers. Mayweather is best counter puncher in the sport.
Pacquiao is susceptible to smart intelligent boxers. Mayweather is the smartest in ring boxer in the sport.
Pacquiao is susceptible to getting hit with right hands. Mayweather’s best punch is the straight right hand.
Six years ago in my draft, I mentioned that Pacquiao’s power (he had just come off a devastating KO of Ricky Hatton) could make all the above points moot. Since that time while Pacquiao has still shown the ability to create flash knockdowns and shake up his opponents, he hasn’t shown the punching power of old. Add into the fact Mayweather has shown a pretty good chin over the years, while it is possible he could get caught with something he doesn’t see to knock him down, unlikely Pacquiao can knock him out.
I see the first few rounds being competitive and then Mayweather cruising to not a shutout but comfortable unanimous decision.
Here are the rest of the BSO Staff predictions.
Kel:
Mayweather will take a few rounds to adjust to Pacquiao’s high volume punching and south paw stance but he will settle in and start to land punches at a better percentage. The fight will go to the judges and Floyd will get the close decision.
Zack:
Mayweather will win in a decision because the odds are against Pacquiao. If it’s anywhere near close the decision almost always falls in the champion’s favor
Josh D:
Mayweather. He has more on the line with his legacy. He’s one heck of a defender. I just think he is overall a better fighter. I think he wins.
Vashti:
I have to go with the more talented fighter. Pacquiao will come out strong, but Mayweather will make the adjustments needed to win.
Winner – Mayweather in a split decision…perfectly setting up part 2 in September.
Mark:
Mayweather: I think his patience, defense, and ability to land punches more efficiently give him the edge.
Belal:
Pacquiao will give Mayweather all he can handle early, but eventually Floyd will figure him out and fatigue from Pacman gives Money just enough of an advantage to pull it out via decision.
Samuel:
I have Mayweather Jr. winning because, let’s face it, he’s the champ. He trains hard, works hard and wins hard. There is no doubt that Mayweather could put Pacquiao to sleep, but I think it’ll come down to a decision.