Between Manny Pacquiao and Marco Antonio Barrera, it’s Pacquiao who appears to be the true champion although Barrera has the bigger belt.  Their classic battle back in November 2003 has been a source of inspiration for Manny and a haunting debacle for Marco.

With their expected rematch put to an indefinite schedule, the disadvantage appears to be on the side of Marco than on the side of Manny.  Here are some justifications.

First, the darling of the boxing world right now is Manny Pacquiao.  Whoever gets to slug it out with the PACMAN gets a fair share of the glory and gold.  In the last four fights of Manny, practically everyone involved including the losing opponents have enjoyed profits instead of losses.  On the other hand, in the last two fights of Marco, there is scarcely anything to be shared among the protagonists.

Second, the meaning of a quality fight has been changed.  If before, all championship fights get the billing of blockbusters, not anymore.  Even the lowly WBC International Championship between Manny Pacquiao and Erik Morales has taken on the quality of an actual, true-blue undisputed championship caliber.  Conversely, the two battles between Barrera and Juarez were wanting in appeal.

Third, Marco’s reputation as a boxer is tainted with the loss to the PACMAN.  Without a rematch, Marco’s being the champion is still questioned until he can exact revenge with Manny and erase all doubts about his stock as the best superfeatherweight in the world.

Without Pacquiao, I tell you, Barrera’s stock is low.