Team Pacquiao: Who Is Timothy James and What Is His Role in MP8.ph Site (Part 2)

This is a continuation of the July 21 story on Timothy James, co-owner of MP8.ph the official Web site of Filipino boxing star and Philippine Congressman Manny Pacquiao.

Timothy James has indeed suffered the consequences of his actions. And by his own account, the frustrated bodybuilder who also played football for his high school team, his conviction has made him the better person that he is today.

Responding to a query from this writer about his struggle with steroids and drug addiction, James said he regrets having indulged in drugs during his prime years. 

"I am walking proof how steroids can ruin a man's life and I am an advocate of banning them and testing for them in every manner," James said.

"I believe very thorough testing needs to be done in all sports, and especially fighting sports. When you are hitting someone in the head, having an unfair advantage by using that chemical can kill someone," he added.

James' statement reminds me of an article I read about the 14-day drug testing window that Manny Pacquiao agreed to during the Pacquiao vs. Mayweather fight negotiations. It turned out that James was instrumental in convincing Pacquiao to take the OSDT test.

James said he is now advocating change in drug testing based on his personal experience on the use of steroids or performance enhancing drugs.

"I have gone to jails to speak with children about the harm that drug can do. Like I said, I am very open about my past and welcome any communication about it. I made a mistake in my early 20s. I paid for that mistake," he said.

"Now approaching 43 years old, I still get ridiculed for my mistake, well, I have to understand I have earned that right for the wrong I did for the rest of my life. I accept it, but I will just take this opening to tell people—'Hey, steroids can really ruin your life, don't do them.' I am walking proof," he said.

Obviously, James has learned his lessons the hard way. And it is good to know that he is using his sad experiences with drugs to educate people about its repercussions.

James is currently embroiled in a heated exchange of views among boxing writers in connection with the sacking of Michael Koncz, manager of MP Boxing and a long-time adviser of Pacquiao.

Having frequent and personal contact with Pacquiao with his video coverage of just about every social function and activities of the fighting Congressman, James said he has first-hand knowledge of the developing stories as he expects major changes in the Pacquiao organization in the coming weeks.

To be continued...

Note: This is Part Il of a mini-series this writer is posting on this site. Watch out for Part lll early next week.