A few days ago, I compared the upcoming LDC (India/Brazil) vs. EU fight over pharmaceuticals being transhipped and confiscated in Amsterdam to Pacquiao vs. Hatton. Suitably enough, they're both North vs. South quarrels. Given my peculiar proclivities, you ought not be surprised that I didn't fork any money to watch the latter boxing match, preferring to observe the trade clash as it unfolds.And it was a good thing I didn't pay anything since the match lasted a mere two rounds as England's pride Ricky Hatton was, like the British "economy" (or whatever passes for it nowadays) caught in rather subprime condition. Is Manny Pacquiao some sort of mauling machine or was Ricky Hatton unprepared to adjust his brawling style to a fighter of superior technique? A little of both, perhaps. Heavy odds in favor of Pacquiao proved spot-on here, although you have to feel sorry for those who shelled out $49.95 for this thrashing--even the Pacquiao fans. Sometimes fights are dull and drag on forever with little action, but exciting one-sided fights that are over in a blink of an eye also represent limited entertainment value. Either way, payers lose.
Perhaps this portents an EU drubbing at the WTO. We can all hope, no? Until then, stay away from pay-per-view. Sweet dreams, Ricky.
