Speed Kills.
If the trigger of any caliber firearm is pulled, even the super human Matrix- styled martyr could not evade the piercing and uncompromising slaughter of a deadly and speedy bullet. This past weekend, a man know as, Pacman, aka; Manny Pacquiao, won another world title in a record tying sixth weight class where his speed... literally, killed, the opposition in Ricky Hatton.
In the weeks leading up to Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton's much anticipated pugilist affair, there was ample discussion about how styles and strength would be the wildcard to determine who would triumph on May 2nd, 2009. More specifically, it was Hatton, who was constantly considered the bigger and stronger man coming into this bout. It is 'Slick Rick's' strength and un-ochesrtrated brawling style that has led him to 45 professional victories. How could you deny these impressive stats? Moreover, how could anyone deny his successful style. Here, was the handy Brit who could possibly manhandle the physically smaller and theoretically weaker, Pacquiao. Hence, if strength was the deciding factor, the Hitman seemed clear for victory.
Although, in the opposite corner of the ring, Pacquiao was also prepared with his own array of arsenal threats. One weapon, of which, was also a less recognized form of strength... speed. It was this type of strength that dismantled Oscar De La Hoya in 8 rounds. A method and principle of human capacity that was proven in prior bouts with David Diaz and Erik Morales. And a newly formed realm where size and physical intimidation was defeated by blinding maneuver, followed by sheer power. The proving ground for this special version of 'strength' displayed its effectiveness once again as Pacquiao stopped Hatton towards the end of Round 2, without question. Without any tangible answer. Nothing, but a rigid body that would remain on the canvas almost permanently by a precise and undiscriminating force. Speed.
As in most athletic endeavors, there is a collective of physical attributes that compliment performance and eventual victory. Balance, power, strength, explosiveness, mobility, flexibility, agility, and accuracy are just a few points that encompass the prerequisites for athletic performance. In stand-up combat, as in boxing, none of these characteristics can be ignored. Just as Manny Pacquiao has displayed in nearly 50 professional wins, speed is in fact a form of strength. Strength, that can win a fight but more significantly stop another human being... literally. I believe the key to realize and learn is that speed embraces the human body in different forms. It is not a method of strength that is only measured by how fast you can execute a punch from point A to point B, but it is also coveted by the anatomy of footwork, defense, movement, hand and eye coordination, patience, in addition to the ability to physically respond to an action. Speed equates the ability to be elusive. To be fast enough to hit, and, not be hit during the same process. In turn, this is a form of strength. Speed is about how the body presents itself to its opponent. Is the body a slow/fast moving target or is it static? Or maybe seemingly static, then magically disappearing at the first blink of an eye. Strength in speed is just as much powerful as brute size and force. Afterall, if you are unable to hit what you see, or do not possess the ability to dodge or defend what is hitting you in a timely fashion, then speed is undeniably a significant element of strength. So move your muscles fast, if not faster!
I can trust that the next discussion found in either global publications or on the world wide web, the 'strength' of Manny Pacquiao will not be questioned. He is the epitome of power and speed, combined with the punching prowess and precision of a heart surgeon. But unlike those crafty hands that are meant to save lives, Manny will continue to stop the opposition in the ring. Killing the adversary's brute strength with devasting strength of his own. Speed.
