With the highly anticipated Manny Pacquiao-Floyd Mayweather fight nearly here, Michael ‘Speedy’ Stratton has become nostalgic about his boxing days. In this week’s At The Bar, he regales The Area News sports editor Andrew Piva with tales from the ring.
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Andrew: I’ve been hassling you for a while to bring in a picture of yourself when you were a young fella, Speedy, and you’ve finally done it. Look at those killer eyes. I’m surprised anyone dared get in the ring with you.
Speedy: The Hillston Hurricane – that’s what they used to call me.
Andrew: Because you were a blow hard?
Speedy: Blow hard? Jump into the ring with me now and I’ll show you why.
Andrew: No need, Speedy. I concede. That’s why they call me Andrew ‘White Towel’ Piva. You still look like you could handle yourself. Were you any good in your day? Do they still talk about you in hushed tones in Hillston?
Speedy: I was handy. I won more than I lost. From memory I was only beaten twice. I used to lead with the left and cross with the right and down they went. Fun days, I tell you.
Andrew: Do you retain any of the old skills and instincts?
Speedy: I've got a heavy bag in the yard that I work out on every now and then in case anybody tries to pick on me.
Andrew: Do you float like a butterfly and sting like a bee? Or is it float like a bee and sting like a butterfly nowadays?
Speedy: Hah! I haven't had to find out. Hopefully I still do all right.
Andrew: I’m sure you could whip a fella half your age.
Speedy: So a 22-year-old, you reckon?
Andrew: You wish. Anyway, Pacquiao v Mayweather, who’s going to win?
Speedy: Mayweather. His skills have eroded a little bit, but I think he’ll have enough to beat Pacquiao. But in saying that, Pacquiao is a harder puncher.
Andrew: Sounds like you're pretty torn.
Speedy: I still think Mayweather, but I wouldn't be surprised if Pacquiao got him. If the fight goes the distance, Mayweather will win. That’s what I reckon.
Andrew: And then what? Do you put your hand up to fight the winner?
Speedy: Mate, I’d happily dust off the gloves for what they’re getting paid.
Andrew: You need a new name, though. The Hillston Hurricane is a bit dated. How about we just call you Michael ‘Speedbag’ Stratton.
Speedy: Why? Because I move so fast I’m a blur, just like a speedbag?
Andrew: I was thinking more along the lines that you can cop some punishment and keep coming back for more, but whatever you feel comfortable with is fine.
