Manny Pacquiao has warned opponent Brandon Rios that he will be facing a fighter who is “fresh, strong and fast” when they meet for the vacant WBO international welterweight title in Macau, China, on November 23.
The 34-year-old, who is the only eight-division world champion, has suffered a fairly big blip in his career with a controversial points defeat to Timothy Bradley followed up by a brutal sixth-round stoppage by Juan Manuel Marquez in August 2012.
Pacquiao is well aware that a defeat against Rios could spell the end of his fighting days so a win against the American is an absolute must.
The ‘Pacman’ has been working hard to ensure that he is in the best possible shape for the bout and is delighted with the results with just over three weeks remaining in his preparations.
Pacquiao stopped short of making any bold knockout predictions to avoid getting careless in the ring, but he feels the come-forward style of Rios will play into his hands.
“The year off has been good and I am very excited to get back into the ring and fight and to do it for the fans. I feel very fresh, strong and fast,” said Pacquiao.
“My training for this fight has been unique and my training camp has been very long for this fight.
“My preparation has been going very well so I think it is going to be an exciting fight. I have given over 100 per cent to my preparation for this fight.
“The key to winning the fight is to train hard and to focus while in training. Focus on my speed and power so I am ready when I get into the ring.”
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