Pacquiao vs. Marquez: Struggles for Pac-Man Highlight a Diminishing Legacy

Manny Pacquiao is not one of boxing's all-time best fighters. The point has become unavoidable after watching him struggle with Juan Marquez once again.

Pac-Man has a list of accomplishments that has blinded everyone to his shortcomings. But it is time for those shortcomings to be recognized.

Shortcomings 

Juan Marquez has been able to find success against Manny Pacquiao because he can out-box him. Pacquiao is more of a brawler than a boxer. He has power that a man his size shouldn't have.

This has allowed him to find success at many weights. However, against a supremely skilled, defensive, counter-punching boxer like Marquez, this power is limited.

Reviewing His Resume

Pacquiao is the first eight-division world champion. This is an impressive accomplishment, and it is something that can never be taken away from him.

This fact alone does not guarantee his status as an all-time great, though.

When Pacquiao defeated Ricky Hatton in two rounds, his legend status seemed cemented. 

Since that time, though, Pacquiao's results have been rather pedestrian.

He has fought five times since then and seems to be getting worse with each bout. He got a 12th-round TKO in his fight following Hatton, against Cotto and every fight since has gone to decision.

While this last fight with Marquez was the first where the outcome was in doubt, Pacquiao has been uninspiring in each bout, and he appears to be slowing down.

Looking Ahead

Pacquiao is about to turn 33, and it looks as if time is already eroding his skills. His time as an elite fighter is limited.

Pacquiao needs to add a few more dominant performances against skilled boxers to cement his legend status, and he does not appear to be in a position to do that.

Pacquiao's career will end up being more kindly judged on accomplishments rather than skill.

And in terms of skill, Pacquiao does not belong with the greats.