Jimuel continues Pacman legacy

MANILA, Philippines — Jimuel Pacquiao scored a unanimous three-round decision over Johnathan Barajas of Oxnard, California, to mark his second straight US amateur lightwelterweight win at the Montebello Country Club in Los Angeles yesterday. Two judges had it 30-27 and one saw it 29-28 as Pacquiao displayed significant improvement from his previous win over Andres Rosales in San Diego last March.

“Maganda ang pinakita ni Jimuel,” said trainer and cornerman Marvin Somodio. “Sharp combinations, nice footwork, mabilis, tight defense. Napuruhan niya si Barajas pero matibay ang kalaban kaya ‘di sayang ang training. Matapang si Jimuel at may determination.”

MP Promotions head Sean Gibbons said Pacquiao delivered the goods. “This kind of match-making will make Jimuel stronger,” said Gibbons. “That kid from Oxnard was competitive. Not an easy fight at all for Jimuel. He’s working hard and continuing the legacy of his father like Bronnie is to LeBron James.”

Pacquiao, 20, intimated his ultimate goal is to turn pro. Somodio said he’s on the right track. Pacquiao said he owes his development to Somodio, physical therapist/recovery coach Brian Masayon and strength/conditioning coach Stanley Godinez. According to sports photographer and GMA correspondent Jhay Otamias who was at ringside, Pacquiao said he fought better against Barajas than Rosales, staying totally focused in training and during the bout.