Physically, he's the same guy, but mentally, that hurt him. Castillo is a great fighter, and Juan knew he could beat him. He knew there were so many things riding on a win there. And it was a close, close fight, particularly in the first half. It hurt him to lose. Badly.

But I wanted our younger players to remember how disappointing it felt. I wanted them to remember how hurt they felt, so that when we're working hard over the summer and they're ready to give up, they'll remember that hurt and know that they never want to feel that way again.

It really hurt. He nearly took my nipple off.

When Manny came back, we knew we were going all the way. I got hurt and they played Woodlands and Lincoln hard, and it showed how good they can be with him out there.

I've been working here about three weeks -- since we opened -- and sometimes I am a manager or a waiter. Other times, I'm in the back helping my uncle.

Ala is a great visionary. I'm now in love with the Philippines and its people.