FIGHTING WORDS

BY BERNARDO “BMIKEA” MIGUEL

“INSPIRED”

Who were your inspirations this year? As 2010 comes to a close, I am left thinking about some of the things that have left me with hopeful expectations for boxing. I also just feel the need to give recognition to some of the people and events that have not only inspired but helped to motivate me in so many ways. First off, this paper...CUERUS. Prior to July of this year, I had no knowledge of this paper that has been slugging away and covering boxing for many years. I have joined two very inspiring men - Miguel Mijes (the founder of the paper and a man with the biggest passion for this sport) and Jim R., our design director that continually delivers the design that everyone talks about. After working with the both of them, I have to say that my passion for this paper grew from not knowing about it at all to throwing my efforts into helping this team make our newspaper the best version of it ever. We've only been a unit for the last few months but we have already accomplished so much.

I look forward to seeing the fruits of our labor continue to flourish. I am also inspired by a new group of contributors. Rob Aguilar, George Jimenez and Rob Ramos. They are the start of a new group that will set a great standard in feature story writing and photo contributions that will help us to put out a "must read" for any boxing fan. They each have engaging personalities and a deep love for boxing. I am always blown away by their perspectives, creativity and genuine interest in the sport and where it's going. As for a fighter that has inspired me, I have to declare on obvious choice in Manny Pacquiao. We all know what an amazing fighter he is and he continues to prove it each time he steps into the ring. The most amazing aspect of this man is in the way he carries himself outside of the arena. To me he is a great ambassador for boxing. He is a "can do" person that does not have to resort to trash talk to sell a fight. He does his talking with his fists, his speed and his uncanny ability to take apart his seemingly formidable opponents. He is someone that anyone can learn a great lesson from. The other is Sergio Martinez. In the few exchanges I have had with other boxing fans that favored Paul Williams before their second meeting, I stated that I thought Martinez would get the edge. I was late in getting excited about the fight but when I dove into the highlights from their first match, curiosity caused me to deeper into more coverage. The idea was to catch up on interviews of Martinez before his fight with Kelly Pavlik and more. I became convinced that Martinez had that "silent warrior" vibe where you cannot deny the presence and the power of the man. He seems very focused and clear in his assessment of his opponents. He also has given them respect but he also explains why he will prevail. I found my "catch up course" on Martinez to be very enlightening and I knew he was going to win but had no idea he would knock Williams out in such spectacular fashion. What a great night for boxing when the doors blew wide open on who the "movers and shakers" were in the squared circle. Congrats on a great year, Sergio! Stay tuned for a year end wrap up and some thoughts on what events seem to be shaping up for 2011. Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to you all! Keep Punching!