By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

With World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao set to defend his title against undefeated Australian challenger Jeff Horn tomorrow, July 2, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia, local promoters continue to favor the reigning titleholder.
Despite Horn having a height and reach advantage over Pacquiao, Monju-United-Naris International Boxing Promotions co-promoter Juan Ramon Guanzon said the Aussie fighter would still need luck on his side to win.
“Only a lucky right straight from Horn will bring the upset of the decade,” he declared.
The former Games and Amusement Board (GAB) commissioner also explained how Pacquiao can overcome the physical disadvantage.
“Horn might have the strength on his right, but since he takes it from the outside, it would be easy for Pacquiao to land his shots inside,” Guanzon said.
Former two-time boxing world champion Gerry Peñalosa also offered his skepticism of Horn.
“Horn is a good fighter but not a special one,” he said.
Another one hedging their bets on the Filipino champion is Rev. Henry Guanzon of JR Eagles Promotions, who said, “Even judges would favor Pacquiao if the fight is close.”
Meanwhile, former Bacolod City Mayor Monico Puentevella offered a more cautious tone.
“Pacquiao can’t be overconfident, he must be careful because Horn is undefeated,” he said. “I’m not expecting any knockout, but anything can happen.”
“Just like with Marquez, one blow can stop it all,” Puentevella added.
As of press time, Horn still came in seven pounds overweight at the most recent weigh-in.
“Seven pounds is seven pounds, if he loses that in two days, we might see a knockout and it’s finished,” said Puentevella. “He won’t last the fight going back and forth to the sauna – it will be over before the bell rings.”
Pacquiao is also currently the favorite among Las Vegas oddsmakers at -650 while Horn +425./WDJ