Freddie Roach says Manny Pacquiao changed his life, has incredible work ethic
In a rare candid moment, Freddie Roach has confirmed his top rated fighter Manny Pacquiao changed his life.
Roach, who spent his early days fighting, wasn’t able to make a significant mark on the sport until he became a full-time trainer.
“Manny changed my life,” he said. “I never imagined, nearly 10 years ago when Manny walked into the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles, we would be where we are today.”
“His work ethic hasn’t changed all these years. No one works harder in the gym. It’s unbelievable how dedicated he is to the sport. Sometimes, I try to hold him back. I don’t want him burning out. But
that’s Manny. It’s good for him to enjoy some down time because he works so hard.”
Manny Pacquiao, a seven-division titlist, is in the throes of preparations for an upcoming 13 November title bout with Antonio Margarito. The bout, for the vacant WBC junior middleweight title, will be
at the Cowboys Stadium in Dallas and is expected to attract some 70,000 fans.
In March Pacquiao took on Joshua Clottey in the same stadium and won a unanimous decision.
Roach was also willing to speak about his other fighters, noting junior welterweight titlist Amir Khan and prospect Vanes Martirosyan.
“Amir’s the next boxing superstar,” he said. “He listens very well, like Manny. He’s a good student. He’s got heart, speed, power and brains. Vanes is being lined up to fight Miguel Cotto. I would never
take a fight which I think my fighter couldn’t win. So yes, I think Vanes will beat Cotto.”
Roach is considered the best boxing trainer in the world, much of which can be attributed to his work with Pacquiao. Roach is largely credited for turning from a promising talent with technical shortcomings
to an brilliantly-honed fighter.
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