Manny Pacquiao and Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach go a long way. The partnership resulted in multiple boxing titles for the Filipino boxer and lawmaker although both seemingly went different paths earlier this year.
Roach was not in Pacquiao’s corner when the multi-division boxer faced Lucas Matthysse of Argentina back in July. Instead, it was longtime Pacquiao pal Buboy Fernandez who entered the fray. As most know by now, Pacquiao won via technical knockout over Matthysse in Malaysia.
It was a rare knockout for the Pac-Man although most were still left unconvinced. Up next for the 39-year -old native of Saranggani Province is Adrien Broner, an opponent that he cannot afford to take lightly.
Pacquiao and Broner are set to face each other on Jan. 19, 2019 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, a clash many perceive as a prelude to a potential Pacquiao vs. Mayweather sequel. Nothing has been set in stone as far as the rematch is concerned.
For now, it would be best for Pacquiao to focus on Broner. With Roach and Fernandez supervising his training, the boxer/lawmaker will need all the help he can get against the 29-year-old pug who has won 33 times, 24 coming off knockouts.
Broner has lost three times, the last of which was via unanimous decision against Mikey Garcia on July 29, 2017. Last April, he settled for a draw against Jessie Vargas. With the not-so-impressive performance, “The Problem” will be out to get his career back on track and that could all start with Pacquiao.
Pacquiao is fully aware that Broner is a real test to see if he still has what it takes to face Mayweather anew. Broner will be looking to spoil the Mayweather-Pacquiao sequel and he does have the tools to do just that, the Bad Left Hook said.
This could be one of the reasons why Roach was re-hired to help out in the training of Pacquiao. According to Manila Bulletin Sports Online, both have figured things out. But if there is one uncertainty in the renewed partnership, it would be the actual role that the legendary trainer will actually have.
Fernandez was reportedly reluctant having Roach back on board, believing that he and Pacquiao have already adjusted to their current setup. Could this result in unwanted conflicts on Team Pacquiao?
The same sentiment was shared by conditioning coach Justin Fortune. He feels that it could create negative vibes within the Pacquiao camp.
“Why go backwards?” said Fortune, who teamed up with Fernandez in the demolition of Matthysse, the first time in almost a decade that Pacquiao had scored a stoppage.
