Pacquiao Can’t Take Cuban Foe Lightly Even With Odds Now In Filipino's Favor

Manny Pacquiao is all set to return to the ring on Aug. 21 although there has been a slight change. The 42-year-old will no longer face original opponent Errol Spence Jr. due to an eye injury.

Spence was forced to withdraw from the fight against Pacquiao to undergo surgery for a torn retina. But the fight is still on with WBA welterweight champion Yordenis Ugas picked to take Spence’s place.

The 35-year-old was originally scheduled to face Fabian Maidana in the PBC for Fox pay-per-view. Ironically, Maidana also backed out due to an injury while sparring on Monday. Hence, the Pacquiao vs Ugas fight was made.

With the change in opponent, the odds for the fight have drastically changed. From an underdog, the eight-time division champion is now a heavy favorite against his Cuban foe.

Oddsmakers give Pacquiao a 75% chance of winning over Ugas. The Cuban was given only a 29.4% chance to prevail over the boxer-senator.

Regardless, Pacquiao is not taking Ugas lightly. In a statement, the Pac-Man knows that his new foe is a formidable fighter but added that only one will leave the ring as WBA welterweight champion.

A concern seen by most is that from a southpaw, Pacquiao will now face an orthodox fighter. With only about two weeks remaining, it will be interesting if the camp of the Filipino will have enough time to make the necessary adjustments against Ugas.

But as far as MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons is concerned, it is something that is not a cause for alarm. Gibbons gave his comments when he spoke to Fighthype.com.

“He’s going from fighting a left-hander to fighting a right-hander. But again, you know when the senator made his name in this country was when he stepped in as a late replacement for Lehlo Ledwaba on HBO. So the senator adapts,” Gibbons stated.

But the more important thing that boxing fans want to know is what lies ahead for Pacquiao, win or lose. Some believe that he is nearing the twilight of his career, others believing he may run for higher office.

A lot is hanging on Pacquiao’s fight against Ugis. The Cuban’s title is on the line but Pacquiao seems more bent on proving he can still box. The fight may mean more for the Saranggani Province native, the result of which would dictate his future.