Pacquiao defies Asian stereotypes, that’s why he gets accused of Steroids
By Charlie Knoxville
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I can see why many American fight fans are assuming that Manny Pacquiao is on some type of performance enhancing steroids because he is denying the randomized blood tests Floyd Mayweather Jr. is demanding, but the discrediting of Manny Pacquiao and his accomplishments have been going on way before this Steroid debacle.
For many years in the United States of America, Asian men have had negative stereotypes associated with them in the media. The Asian man was considered frail, weak, timid, shy and a mathematician who get’s straight A’s in school.

Manny Pacquiao flexing during the Pacquiao-Cotto weigh ins (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)
Many fighters have climbed the weight classes but none as impressively as the Filipino fireball, Manny ” The Pacman” Pacquiao.
Pacquiao has gotten faster and stronger as he climbed the weight divisions.
His power and ability to take punches has been very impressive.
He reminds me of those old time throwback fighters like Henry Armstrong and Roberto Duran guys who could go up in weight and be successful.
It is something you rarely see an Asian do and that is dominate a sport that was dominated by Black Americans for so long.
You had your handful of good Asian champions from back in the day but mainly in the small weight classes not many have dominated and destroyed bigger men the way Manny Pacquiao has.
Pacquiao really does defy what many Americans have ingrained in their minds about Asians.
I admit I am guilty of being prejudice as well, I used to think the majority of Asians were not strong and could never make it in boxing. When Manny Pacquiao came along and did what he did I was shocked. I even asked myself “how could this little Filipino man do something like this?”
I came to realize he is just that special and that great regardless of his ethnicity or racial make up. He is just a special once in a lifetime fighter that we are lucky to witness in our time.
He doesn’t need to take steroids, EPO or growth hormones to beat these legendary fighters.
Why single out the only Asian man to be a pound for pound boxing king?
Well Manny Pacquiao was singled out even before this steroid controversy, every time he destroyed a legend the doubters already made excuses and whether people will admit to it or not the truth is a good majority of these Pacquiao naysayers discredit his wins because they do not believe that an Asian fighter can do the things he is doing.
From their mindset it’s just not possible.
Year’s from now Manny Pacquiao will be talked about and maybe get his full credit as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
With guys like Pacquiao you never truly appreciate what they have done for the sport until they are gone.
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It is a shame that a fighter that has rejuvenated the sport as Mr Pacquiao has done, can have his reputation blemished by an underachiever in Mayweather.
Nicely written. and i totally agree!
Think about this:
Pacquiao has to fight on an american soil, refereed by an american referee, judged by a americans, under american rules and regulations; fight on a predominantly american audience, by an american media…
But still emerge victorious.
Until Mayweather Jnr hit him below the belt.
nicely written– prejudice and stereotype blinds a lot of people from reality– manny pacquiao is really one of the best
we should give him credit for his accomplishments– BRAVO MANNY !!!
Mayweathers is an asshole.
they try to destroy the name of pacquiao w/o any single evidence that he takes ped.
And I’m sure that the current negotiation will not approve or become successful
because if Floyd Maywather Jr. doesn’t want to fight he will not fight and risk his perfect record.
because for sure manny pacquiao will destroy him in the ring.
STUPID ASS ARTICLE
Its been proven fact that Asians are tiny and smaller than blacks and whites. Knoxville you probably got an asian girl friend and got that yellow fever fetish.
Asians are also known to use growth hormone look at the Chinese they are tiny but now they got 7 foot giants like Yao Ming and they are all lab experiments
I agree 100%. All of the World records that Asians swimmers set in the pool in the last 10 years has wiped out the books because they found out that all of the swimmers were as dirty as Alabama pigs. A Chinese hurdler was ranked #1 in the world until he was caught cheating. Imagine that. A Chinese hurdler ranked #1 in the world. Not only is it uncommon, it’s unheard of.
Take the test Manny.
This whole discrediting thing was all blown out of proportion by two of BOXINGNEWS24′s writers named MANUEL PEREZ and LIAM SANTIAGO which by the way, all of a sudden disappeared after Manny Pacquiao filed the defamation suit. This two writers does not write anything but only about Pacquiao.
Then comes Mayweather sr……
Manny deserves all the kudos he gets and I agree wholeheartedly with the comment by Franklin above that Mayweather is an underachiever.
Americans in general I believe don’t know a whole lot about the Filipinos. Filipinos aren’t normally tall or big people. Asians in general are viewed as less physically imposing compared to Pacific Islanders such as Samoans, Tongans, men of African descent, Europeans, and Hispanics. So Manny achieving this type of success due to his physical strength and talent for boxing, seems odd to westerners. Asians are viewed as having brains but not the brawn. We have to accept greatness comes from all walks of life. It is not exclusive to people who are tall, and moe muscular. Greatness comes from all sizes, it is what you do with your talent that makes you great. We have people who are physically gifted but do not have a clue or guidance to bring out that talent. With Manny as talented as he is, Freddie Roach was able to cultivate that natural talent and elevate it to its highest. Manny’s success is not just from his natural talent but the hard training and a person guiding him along the way. The proper game plan and properly executing the game plan. Manny’s success can be easily attributed to great training of legendary Freddie Roach.
Mayweathers is an asshole.
they try to destroy the name of pacquiao w/o any single evidence that he takes ped.
And I’m sure that the current negotiation will not approve or become successful
because if Floyd Maywather Jr. doesn’t want to fight he will not fight and risk his perfect record.
because for sure manny pacquiao will destroy him in the ring.
Pacquiao doesn’t understand why they are accusing him and it is sad becuase he is a good man and a kind hearted human being such a shame these slimey ugly vindictive people who dislike him they are the lowest scum on earth.
LOL.. I am in the same predicament. I am Asian/Filipino as well. When I weigh 165 lbs and less than 3 percent body fat, I was pounding more weights in the gym than a heavy bodybuilder. People always accused me of steroids use. I never really bothered to be offended, as a matter of fact, I take that as a compliment! Its like hearing your power are so awesomely unbelievable you are like a machine and you have to be on something. I take that as a compliment! Really I don’t think it just apply to Filipinos. Anybody who have done extreme or beyond norm accomplishments specially when it involves on physical strength are suspects till proven innocent, and that has no boundaries in any race or culture. And to see it done from the supposedly small frame/bone Asians, just adds more astonishments and question marks at the end of every ones mind. Pac was quoted at one interview that his power and skills are from God and HARD-WORK! I couldn’t disagree more!
This is bullshit article…he got accused because of Jealousy and those who accuse him are majority blacks thats all i know!!! why??? BeCause Gayweather and most boxers in America are blacks
Look at this way, Pac does not want to get blood pulled out of him ’cause maybe he’s a little superstitious. Look at some guys that go into superbowl or other big games, some don’t want to shave or change their underware until the game is finished because they think it will jinx them. So maybe this is the reason. Pac does not want to jinx himself. Being tested after the fight should be good enough.
MR KNOXVILLE, I SALUTE YOU. YOU ARE INDEED A TRUE GENTLEMAN LIKE MANNY AND MIGUEL. THIS IS THE FIRST OPINION FROM AN AMERICAN GENTLEMAN THAT I REALLY ADMIRE. THANK YOU AND MORE POWER TO YOU SIR.
I do not think I am superstitious but I do believe that removing blood from my body weakens me. That is why I hate going for my annual physical check-ups.
I would say that Pacquiao is the same way.
I f@cking hate n!gg3rs.
Wow what a great article…you know with your intellect and sources of information you must be an expert! I can tell you write from the heart which is so good and good for you!. But I sense lots of anger. Are you mad? do you want a hug?. Perhaps you have some personal issues to asians?. Here are some words of advice.
Look in the mirror and say to your self. “Im good enough, Im smart enough and gosh darn it people like me!”
some athletes have some superstitious beliefs some have none. whatever works for them. juan manuel marquez even drank his own urine coz he blieves it makes him stronger….
You got it Charlie Knoxville! Way to go!
tony b….ignorant!!!
Right Hook Roll Under
why do you say knoxville is angry?
Manny is Great but he lost 3 times. It was in loosing that he became better and now the best.
Mayweather is undefeated but is never considered the best.
MR KNOXVILLE, thank you for the wonderful article!
I believe the demolition of Miguel Cotto, a great welterweight champion whom Mayweather fears to fight, triggered the “steroid accusations” by the naysayers. They can’t believe their eyes how on earth could an Asian fighter beat the so-called considered superior races…and one more thing, the Cotto’s demolition instilled so much fear to Mayweather that he must find a way to duck from a fight with this great Asian Warrior, without hurting his integrity….
people deny it but it has something to do with it
it happened in regards to blacks being qb in the nfl..many people denied that perception but we know the truth
http://www.sportzhypeboxing.com/2009/12/manny-pacquiao-truth-about-steroids.html
simple,let both of this boxers follow what the Nevada State Commission’s rules,its’ done deal!!!
If Mayweather is really a good boring boxer, show it the world and not making any mind game to cover that he’s afraid to be demolished by Pacman.
Time will come Mayweather will close his eyes to go ahead and fight Manny because of the money.Mabuhay ka Pacman…
Mr. Knoxville, I applaud you for your insight and revelation of Manny. Not many people will take the time to understand other cultures and have an open mind. Some people’s perceptions are so ingrained in their mind, they can’t or won’t believe it. Many people still can’t believe we have a black US president.. Yes, it would be easy to say Manny takes PEDs because of the phenomenal climb in boxing weight classes for an Asian man to achieve success in. But small minded people such as KFC (Kentucky Floyd Chicken) will look for whatever devious way to undermine anyone that will belittle their perceived “greatness”. I think at the end of the day, truth and integrity will show that Pacquiao is a good man and the “people’s champion”, and hopefully we will see a few more of his tremendously exciting fights before he retires, by his own choice. And from blogs we find that each day, more and more boxing fans are losing respect for Floyd’s tactics and character, and I don’t blame them. He’s been deceitful to many other opponents in the past, and will continue. Anyway, I really would like to see this fight, however it turns out, but I do think running scared PBF will get beat up or even knocked out by the Pacman, so I may not happen. Still, Manny will win out in the end.
Mr. Knoxville – Good Honest Article! I will remember your name. Keep up the good writing.
Sometimes we have to step outside the box or our comfort zone to see the whole scenario. I think you did sir with this article. I also like Chuck Stronghold comment. It’s way too genius but right. Take my example. I’m an Asian Christ beleiver/ church goer here in the US. Do you think there is no descrimination in my church? Big time, there is. But I stayed no matter what because I go there for mainly one purpose alone. To serve my God. As my pastor always say’s, people will let you down and they sometime doesn’t realize it but with your eyes focus on Jesus, you cannot be downed. I firmly beleive Pacquaio’s greatness comes from God. The difference is he claimed his victories and he admit where his help is coming from. God above!!
What an article …direct to the point.they could not admit that a small guy like manny pacquiao could dimolished almost every legendary fighter that comes along his way.what they don’t know his strength & power comes from ABOVE & everytime Manny is in the ring the whole Philippine nation were all praying for him. He confirm this during his B’day celebration. Additionally the name “MANNY PAQUIAO” means the WINNER OF ALL MONEY…could you believe that !
Shame on anyone who writes racist or prejudice comments. We are all human. Such attitudes show a lack of education and intelligence.
It’s a good thing that lawyers are educated people who force the general public to live by the rule ‘innocent until proven guilty’. P.S. I am not a lawyer.
Manny – You cant be superstitious and believe in God like Manny is. Remember Manny was knocked out by 110 and 130 lbs fighters and now he’s taking power shots by 147 lbs fighters? There is something wrong here..The power isnt coming from above but rather from substance. Do not be blind and deceived, you will fall into the pit with him also.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2knZqzIBtI
BRAVO!
I couldn’t agree more. You can immediately tell if the writer has something between their ears. They don’t just bark without facts under their belt.
This is a good example of fair and investigative journalism. Mr. Knoxville, you are plain GENIUS.
Parting words: PLAIN and SIMPLE.
What does the blood test, minutes RIGHT AFTER the fight COULDN’T detect (which Manny is willing to do), that 2days BEFORE THE FIGHT can? NOTHING.
SCIENCE and FIGURES won’t lie, but you can be DUMB to deny it.
Let’s not forget here Floyd’s racial stereotype as well. Blacks still last in the country in academics and proverty rates. Floyd is the “typical” ghetto black guy that doesn’t have any manners or class when they “make it”. Doesn’t have a clue about honor. Let’s admit it people, that’s what we are taught to believe growing up as well! And Floyd fits the American uneducated Black man perfecty!
I loved this article, non-bias and informative. I am switching sides now. Mayweather sucks! Manny Pacquiao go! go! go!
Brilliant Guys!
manny is the G.O.A.T. AND HAS MORE fans than people realize people i talk to floyd fans say he’s scard of manny floyd’s good but to me he’s allready making an excuse for if he loss or a build up for his self if he won to say he beat a man on PEDs Ali said way worse stuff about fraizer so manny has to rise above the b.s. again and prove again why he is the G.O.A.T.
NOBODY EVER KNOCKED MANNY OUT AT 130 get your shit right JD
NOBODY EVER KNOCKED MANNY OUT AT 130 get your facts right JD
Excellent observation. Floyd mentioned that his past fights were great fair fights-meaning administered by a fair sports commission. In claiming now that Manny submit to a requirement not covered by the Nevada Commission, it may not be Manny that is in great harm here but the integrity of all Boxing Sports Commissions and the integrity of great boxers who fought on fights administered by the Commissions. As boxing fans, do we deserve this?
Pacquiao’s achivements are never before seen for an Asian. He’s simply great & amazing and other people cannot believe how he came to be what he is right now. Those who cannot accept him and his achievements accuse him of doping just to discredit him. Now, it’s up for us people to give credit where credit is due and just ignore baseless & malicious accusations. C’mon people don’t be stupid, smart up!
tony b. your such an idiot… who are you to judge people… what did you achieve anyway! your just a big mouth loser
tony b. your such an id… who are you to judge people… what did you achieve anyway! your just a big mouth loser
JD- you are an idiot and doesn’t know what you’re talking about. Manny was knocked out before when he was in his teens and building up his boxing career. You cannot expect his small frame in his teens to bulk instantly to 147 lbs. It only took time for his body to age and grew naturally to what he is right now at 147 lbs. You are the one who is deceived and would soon fall into the pit with your foolish blasphemy!
Guys, stop saying bad words to my baby Floyd… he is crying now because 40 mil is gone
he has a lot of ? for himself, how can i pay my car loan more than a 100k, how can i pay IRS for my taxes, how can i continue on my gambling habbit, how can i support my family with drugs…. & stupid Schaefer, go back to your bankrupt bank, Dela Hoya continue in your retirement, you retired w/ bitterness & no face to show. Pacman will fight Yuri and when he win, he will have 8 belts in 8 class. My baby Floyd will get so mad and very jelous, because he will retire not having 8 belts…7 is hard to achive & now 8? Mayweather will fight “the clown” what a looser. Pick your opponents and claim that he is great boxer, but espn or hbo don’t recognize Floyd achievement co’z he is a ducker… The Monkey(Jr.) is jelous the same as the Gorilla(Sr.)
Mr. Knoxville, nice article, sir.
Tony B, you’re dumb, period.
JD, If you’re so sure about your opinion, then where is your evidence? Give us proof! Back it up!
No matter what…Pacquiao is the best boxer of all time as other well known boxers are getting afraid to face him now. They feel the Pacman is too much for them and want to discredit him with his accomplishments. They can’t accept that a Filipino boxer is on top of the boxing world. The best P4P fighter that ever conquered the boxing world. Hurray for Manny Pacquiao!
[...] of steroid and human growth hormone abuse because Pacquaio broke records unheard of in boxing. Could these accusations simply come as a result of Pacman breaking Asian stereotypes? [...]
Somewhat true article but stereotypes are not always fact. Stereotypes were created by the way the west “wants to view the world”. There are villages in northern china where the average height is 6’8″.
This article about the Pacquiao situation reminds me why there are so many excuses from americans when, for instance, Japan wins back to back WBC titles in baseball. Or when China won the most Gold Medals in the last olympics, all of a sudden the american media changes the medal count standings in favor of total medals over total “gold” medals.
The media is what is killing this country…brainwashing the average anglo till that’s how they think and that’s what they want to hear.