The obvious answer as to who COULD is Floyd. But we all know in 2009 Manny ducked a 50/50 fight because the blood test. Let the shitstorm begin im just stating a fact :think
Is this a fantasy question wherein we can pick any fighter in history or do we have to pick fighters from 2009?
If we're talking any boxer in history i'd put my money on Leonard and Hearns anytime, Hearns to KO him because of Pac's come forward style and suspect chin.
If we're talking Welterweights in the history of the sport, than at least 10 of them could. I think Duran would knock out him cold within 6 rounds. I think Chavez Sr would be a a helluva fight (I'd favor CHavez in a decision.) Pea Whitaker would make him look pretty bad IMO. I think it goes without saying guys like Ray RObinson, Ray Leonard and Tommy Hearns would knock him out cold. There's many guys at Welterweight in the history of the sport that could knock Manny out in an extremely violent manner.
I did not think of that possibility, but since you mentioned it.. Let's have two questions.. :good Who could beat Pacquiao at around that time? Who in history could beat him?
JMM isn't strong enough to beat Pacquiao during those times.. He would get eaten alive for sure.. :good
I agree with Hearns and Robinson because of their reach and size advantage but I don't agree with the rest.. Leonard had problems with mobile fighters who can box.. I favor Leonard to win by a KO in any minute of the 12 round fight but I give Pacquiao a high chance of getting a decision.. I always thought Pacquiao would put a brutal beating on the version of Duran who comes forward.. The boxer version might get a decision though.. Chavez Sr. and Whitaker are good boxers but compared to the opposition Pacquiao beat during those times, you'd have to favor Pacquiao.. If they'll bring the fight to Pacquiao, they'll get stopped.. :good
At the time of 2009, the only guys that could beat him IMO are Floyd Mayweather and Juan Manuel Marquez. NO one else at 140-147. He'd knock Khan out at JWW and the majority of opposition from JWW to WW. The guy is an ATG. Cerebral boxers who are technical and possess good counterpunching ability can give Manny fits. Guys who want to engage prime Pacman more than likely will end up on the canvas.
JMM beats Pacquiao anytime on a level playing field. JMM didn't wise up soon enough! Pacquiao ducked Floyd 2X. What can a brother do?