LAS VEGAS via Glutamax —Will we see Manny score a knockout for the first time in years?
“Well, let’s see,” said a hopeful Freddie Roach during the press conference before the highly anticipated WBO Welterweight Title bout between eight-division World Boxing Champion Manny Pacquiao and World Boxing Organization Welterweight Champion Jessie Vargas , on November 5, 2016 at Thomas & Mack Center, Paradise, Las Vegas, Nevada.
At the Wynn Las Vegas Margaux Ballroom, the camps of Pacquiao and Vargas faced the press, both looking excited and ready for fight night.
“Jessie is a legitimate world champion in the welterweight division. He is 10 years younger and fresher than the battle-heavy Filipino icon. Stylistically, Vargas is big and in possession of a solid skill set. He will box Manny like no other fighter has and is good enough and skilled enough to give the favored former champ a much tougher time than many are anticipating,” said the confident Dewey Cooper, Vargas’ trainer who replaced legendary Mexican champion Erik Morales.
“We might disappoint the spectators on November 5,” added Cooper, a former cruiserweight who is Vargas’ sixth trainer in his eight-year career.
Former boxing champion Gerry Peñalosa is expecting a knock out in the early rounds, saying, “Manny will knock him down early.”
Roach acknowledges the youth and strength of Vargas, saying that these are definitely pluses for Manny’s opponent.
“His height and reach are also factors that we will need to control. I do not want to give anything away, but Manny’s speed and footwork might be the key weapons in establishing our plan,” said Roach.
Pacquiao’s trainer Marvin Somodio and Justin Fortune noted that Manny has never been beaten by taller boxers, referring to Oscar Dela Hoya, Joshua Clotty, Antonio Margarito, Miguel Cotto and Chris Algieri.
“This slugger is much faster than the others. Manny will definitely dominate Vargas,” said Somodio.
Former Boxing champ Michael Farenas, has another prediction: a decision victory for Manny.
“Pacquiao will win via decision. His edge over Vargas is his experience, speed, and punching power,” Farenas said.
The People’s Champ continues to ask for his kabayans’ prayers.
“Please pray for me because this fight is for my countrymen,” said the Pambansang Kamao.