Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Pacquiao vs Bradley Undercard Set: Jones vs Bailey, Arce vs Rojas, Rigondeaux vs Kennedy

Manny Pacquiao will face Timothy Bradley on June 9 in boxing's next big mega-event, and the pay-per-view undercard has been finalized. Here's a quick run-down.

Mike Jones vs Randall Bailey (12 Rounds, Welterweights)

Jones (26-0, 19 KO) is at the point of his career where it's time to truly make something happen. At 29, he's not a guy with a ton of upside left, so he's probably more a what you see is what you get fighter, even though he's only come into the public eye in the last couple of years. At six feet tall, he's a big welterweight, but doesn't have crazy reach or anything (his 72" reach is equal to Mayweather's, and well short of Paul Williams' freakish 79" reach), and he's proven beatable and hittable against lesser opponents like the gritty Jesus Soto Karass.






In his last fight, Jones easily outworked Sebastian Lujan on the Cotto vs Margarito II undercard, which was a disappointing fight as Lujan sort of mentally bowed out a lot earlier than expected. That hittable thing could be a problem against Bailey (42-7, 36 KO), who has a right hand that at age 37 still might be the single hardest punch in all of boxing, pound-for-pound. The guy can flat-out crack, but is vulnerable defensively in a big way, and isn't much of a boxer. Outside of his monster right, he offers very little at this level. He's a walking Puncher's Chance.

Guillermo Rigondeaux vs Teon Kennedy (Super Bantamweights, 12 Rounds)

Let's be clear about why this fight has been placed on this card: Nobody gives a crap about Guillermo Rigondeaux (9-0, 7 KO), one of the greatest amateur fighters of all-time, who now holds a world title in the pro ranks after just nine fights. He's very, very good when he's on his game, but he's also boring when he's not fully there or when he's presented with an actual opponent, he has no personality, and he can't sell any tickets.

Kennedy (17-1-2, 7 KO) is a decent fighter who went to a dull draw with Christopher Martin in January, but shouldn't be any real trouble for Rigondeaux. The 25-year-old Philly fighter is winless in his last two, having dropped a decision to Alejandro Lopez prior to facing Martin.

Jorge Arce vs Jesus Rojas (Super Bantamweights, 10 Rounds)

2011 was a rebirth year for the Mexican brawler Arce (60-6-2, 46 KO), as he jumped up to 122 pounds and easily stole the show on the Pacquiao-Mosley PPV, beating down Wilfredo Vazquez Jr to pick up another world title against massive odds, handing the Puerto Rican his first loss.

Since beating Vazquez, the 32-year-old Arce has fought three straight rematches, avenging his loss to Simphiwe Nongqayi, beating Angky Angkota again (this one was pointless), and then beating Lorenzo Parra in February of this year. Arce has taken his win over Vazquez and used it to float in the background -- he may face Nonito Donaire in September, but then again he may not, since that fight keeps being talked about but not happening.

Rojas (18-1-1, 13 KO) is a Puerto Rican mediocrity they're going to sell to you as a power punching knockout artist who has been dying for the day he could defend the island's flag against the rival Mexicans, but he drew Jose Luis Araiza last time out, which is the only non-loss in Araiza's last six outings, and Rojas' loss was a pretty clear eight-round defeat to Jose Angel Beranza. This fight is a water-treader for Arce, but he has a habit of pretty much always being in fun fights, so it could still be the show's best fight, since it has Jorge Arce and his blood.

Pacquiao vs Bradley Bout Won't Live Up to Mayweather vs Cotto

Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Miguel Cotto gave us a tremendous fight on Saturday at the MGM Grand, but Timothy Bradley Jr. is gravely overmatched against Manny Pacquiao, and it will make for a disappointing bout.

Despite a 28-0 career record, Bradley has never fought anyone even close to Pacquiao's caliber, and he's in for a rude awakening come June 9.





Bradley's last fight was against 40-year-old Joel Casamayor. He predictably scored a TKO in the eighth round. The fact of the matter is, he may be an impressive boxer, but he's outmatched in virtually every category against Pacquiao.



Pacquiao is faster, stronger and is a one-of-a-kind boxer. Boxers like Pacquiao come around once in a blue moon. His combinations will prove to overwhelm Bradley down the stretch.

Now, it must be said that Pacquiao hasn't been dominant in his past two fights. He was expected to pick the older Shane Mosley apart last May, but he didn't do anything particularly earth-shattering. Against Juan Manuel Marquez, you could make the case that he lost that bout.

But the fact of the matter is, Marquez was always a boxer who gave Pacquiao trouble. Just because Pacquiao didn't assert his dominance against Marquez, doesn't mean he's necessarily in free-fall mode. Marquez is a longtime rival who fared far better against Pacquiao than most boxers.

In that sense, Pacquiao is still head and shoulders above anyone else not named Floyd Mayweather Jr. It's still he and Mayweather, and then everybody else. He's incredibly skilled, and his warrior's mentality makes him virtually impossible to beat.

I would like to think Bradley will test Pacquiao like Cotto tested Mayweather, but he's not the warrior Cotto is and he's vastly overmatched against the eight-division world champion.

If Pacquiao doesn't run away with this one, I'd be shocked.

Monday, May 28, 2012

Can Bradley dethrone Pac-Man?

They are two fighters sharing the same ring but fighting remarkably different battles.

For Manny Pacquiao (54-3-2, 38 KO), his fight against Timothy Bradley (28-0, KO 12) is an opportunity to show fans that he is the same fighter who destroyed Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto and Antonio Magarito. Pacquiao’s controversial victory over Juan Manual Marquez left a bitter test in boxing fans' mouths. A dominant performance over Bradley will sweeten a potential fight with Floyd Mayweather (43-0, 26 KO.)







Timothy Bradley is fighting for recognition. He has been a world champion since 2008, but outside of the hardcore boxing fanbase, he is largely unknown. This is his opportunity to become a household name.

Can Bradley dethrone Pac-Man? Will boxing fans ever see the old Pacquiao again? Bleacher Report breaks down the fight.

fans want to see Impressive knockout win for Pacquiao

Won his last four bouts via decision, Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao of the Philippines is expected by his huge number of followers to win a decisive fight against undefeated Timothy Bradley of the United States.

Unlike his previous training camps where his chief trainer Freddie Roach got frustrated of the many distractions, this training camp for the forthcoming June 9 boxing event is smooth sailing. Manny Pacquiao is not only a congressman, he also works as a bible ambassador, an actor, a game show host, product endorser, among others. His trainer believes he can bring back the old fighting style of Pacquiao, who goes for the kill once he sees the opponent become wobbly.

Undefeated Timothy Bradley, a native of Palm Springs, is challenging Pacquiao to defeat him by knockout. Many boxing experts agree that Tim is a tough opponent because of his built, speed and ability to box.

The fight fans wants to see Manny win by kayo and the only way he can do it is to stop sympathizing the opponent and unleash his wild combinations. Pacquiao can release 4-6 punch combinations in most exchanges and his lateral movement is the best in the sport. He has a decent footwork that comes with his ability to throw punches at different angles, giving the opponent a hard time to defend.






In his third battle against Mexican boxing legend Juan Manuel Marquez, Manny had a hard time beating his opponent because of the fighting style.

Bradley is an elusive fighter that comes with an ability to adapt to the strategies of his opponent. He is a hungry boxer who wants to get the limelight of the sport and make a name by winning against one of the best in the business.

Promoted by Top Rank Promotions, in association with MP Promotions, HBO Sports, Tecate and MGM Grand, the Pacquiao vs Bradley boxing event is available on HBO pay-per-view. The tickets are already sold-out and the only available tickets now are sold in the online market at a much higher price, about twice the amount when it was sold at TicketNetwork or TR Boxing Promotions.

Bob Arum, who many dubbed as the “King of Hype”, expects a great match between a young undefeated boxer and a veteran slugger, who already lost three times in his career as a professional. Pacquiao is the heavy favorite to win this bout but he needs to win impressively to get the solo spot at the number 1 boxer pound-for-pound. Fans do not want to see another controversial decision win for Pacquiao, similar to his last bout against Marquez. Bradley’s followers are praying for an upset win but this will be very unlikely because of the quickness and power of Manny.

How Concerned Should Pacquiao Be?

Pacquiao should be reasonably concerned, but he needs to keep his superior status in mind. Bradley is not a better fighter, but any elite fighter must avoid getting too comfortable.

Bradley wants to shock the world in Las Vegas on June 9. He wants that signature win to catapult him among boxing's hottest names.




Pacquiao already owns that status. He has for a long time. It is very important for Pacquiao to come to this fight hungry because Bradley will be ravenous.

Pac-Man will claim victory if he focuses on the task at hand, respects Bradley's talent and fights his fight.

If he fail to do any of these things, Bradley will eagerly swipe this fight away from him.

Boxing fans may be more familiar with Pacquiao's name and reputation, but do not overlook a young, talented and driven challenger.

Why Pac-Man Must Be Wary of Upset

Manny Pacquiao must be focused, hungry and technically sound if he wants to beat Timothy Bradley on June 9.

If Pac-Man does not show up prepared, Bradley is more than capable of handing him a shocking upset.

The only reason an upset would be considered shocking involves the two fighters' overall resumes and general popularity. Pacquiao is one of boxing's hottest names, but Bradley's 28-0 record should not be overlooked.

This fight will be a technical battle, as well as a battle of wills.

Let's take a look at why Pacquiao must be careful against Bradley in front of the MGM Grand crowd.





Warrior's Attitude

Bradley defeated Lamont Peterson and Devon Alexander while they were undefeated and burning through boxing's ranks. He is not afraid of the big moments, and will need that when facing Pacquiao.

Bradley has the heart of a lion. He is a skilled boxer, but his attitude is what sets him apart.

Pacquiao must be aware of any momentum Bradley gains. He will try and take Pac-Man out of the fight emotionally, and force this fight toward his style.

This is a fighter who has not had his big moment, who has not reached his full potential yet. Pacquiao is a finished product while Bradley is still learning the nuances of his own fighting repertoire.

Bradley must set the tone early with his gritty, scrappy frame of mind.

If he can make this fight about willpower, and not punching power, the momentum will swing dramatically in his favor.

Common issues of Pacquiao and Bradley

Manny Pacquiao is a pop culture icon with an entourage rivaling some small Central American armies. The eight-division world champ is perpetually buried in a sea of swirling, attention-starved sycophants who fawn over his every move and treat every word uttered from his mouth as if it were coming from a deity. Wherever he goes, Manny is the center of attention-- If not for his immense fame, then for the sheer chaos generated by his mass of hangers-on.

Timothy Bradley, on the other hand, is only a recognizable face to the most hardcore of fight fans. And even if recognized as a talented fighter and current, undisputed top dog of the junior welterweight division, his appearance in public wouldn't likely generate anything more intense than a casual, "Hey, Champ."




Pacquiao and Bradley both have some very important things in common, though.

They are both elite-level prize fighters. They both take their work very seriously. Both are driven and super-humanly motivated. And, yeah, they'll be meeting on June 9th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas for Pacquiao's WBO welterweight title.

To a guy like Bradley, who has never been exposed to this level of insane publicity and desperate media feeding frenzy, this experience must appear to be some bizarre drug-free hallucination.

"I don't need a huge following," Bradley told Boxingscene's Chris Robinson. "I don't need a whole bunch of guys that are just there for no reason. They have no particular job or title. They're just company I guess. My company is my family, my team. That's all I need. My Dad, my good friend Sam Jackson, my wife, my kids. My boxing family, they're always there."

Manny Pacquiao, no matter how much he likes to refer back to his humbler times as a poor kid who literally fought his way out of poverty, is the privileged 1% now. He has worked his way into a position where he can call all the shots and he will, invariably, get every benefit of the doubt when it comes to the officiating and judging of any bout he's in.

Bradley, on the other hand, is coming into this bout as part of the boxing 99% and one of the sport's blue collar stars. The odds are stacked against him and he has to realize that he will need to win this contest beyond even the slightest shadow of a doubt if he's going to have his hand raised.

In boxing, just like in the real world, privilege breeds preference.

This is not to say that Manny Pacquiao can't go out there, fight with burning hunger, and truly prove his dominance. It's just that as a boxing cash cow, he doesn't have to blow Bradley away to get the win.

The real pressure will all be on Bradley and we'll see soon enough if he has what it takes to be a part of the boxing 1%.

Pacquiao vs. Bradley: Underrated Title Bout a Dream Come True

June 9th's battle between Manny Pacquiao and Tim Bradley has all the makings of a classic.

It will pit a revered and battle-tested champion versus a young and hungry challenger.  But no matter who comes out on top, the outcome will be a welcome respite for a sport that could sure use some excitement.

The marketing of the fight has been easy for boxing. Bradley has attractive skills, but will be risking an unblemished record against fighting's most dominating performer.






Meanwhile, Pacquiao has had his share of distractions the past couple of years, from owing in taxes and saving his marriage to ridding himself of the luxuries his eight titles have earned him.  He looks vulnerable, but a convincing win should regenerate his lust for boxing and set up a potential blockbuster match with Floyd Mayweather.

Just a couple of months ago, boxing and its pride and joy were reeling.  PacMan even sounded like he was prepared to hole up at home and play video games instead of continue the career that has made him famous.

"I will not stay long in boxing because he (God) said: 'You have done enough. You have made yourself famous but this is harmful,' " Pacquiao told DVMM.

The dream seemed so real to the 33-year old, he gave up many of the vices that were wreaking havoc in his life.  But he has not expressed a definitive date for retirement.  Instead, he's turned his attention to the Bradley fight for a chance to redeem himself from the scrutiny that has grown.


Pacquiao told USA Today that he will spread the message of Christianity inside the ring and believes God wants him to do so because of his worldwide popularity.

If Pacquiao brushes aside Bradley and remains active, questions remain as to who he will fight next. Hall of Fame Boxing promoter Bob Arum says that "everything is on the table" for PacMan's next move.

Although a war of words has existed between Arum and Floyd Mayweather, Pacquiao could finally give fans what they have been yearning for by agreeing to fight his infamous critic, who believes that Pacquiao's championships are tainted by steroid use. 

If Pacquiao decides to let outspoken Mayweather simmer a while longer, he could return to the ring for a fourth time against Juan Manuel Marquez.  Either way, boxing will benefit by the intrigue and Pacquiao could earn a pair of hefty paydays that should make retirement sweet for the people's champion.

That dream sequence could surely come true, but it will be abruptly halted if Tim Bradley has anything to do with it. History suggests that he will succumb to the extraordinary skills of Pacquiao, but at his media day workout, Bradley sure looked like a guy that is focused on making history.

The undefeated junior Welterweight champion believes he can wrestle the Welterweight crown away from Pacquiao because he has "mastered" the southpaw's moves.


I can deal with any southpaw,” Bradley said, noting that he has learned how to deal with their lefty stance after beating Devon Alexander and Joel Casamayor.



“I’m a lot more familiar with the southpaw stance…I’m just a lot better with that now at competing and defeating southpaws. It’s not a big deal anymore. You know, switching up and having to face a southpaw can be tricky. But it’s just like riding a bike to me, now.”

Fellow Bleacher Report writer Tim Keeney has also pointed out a few of Bradley's best traits.  He says that "footwork and speed" are in the 28-year old's favor.

Bradley has not lost a single fight in 28 tries, but he's not exactly a knockout artist. Just 12 of his fights have ended by KO.


Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez IV: Marquez Makes Interesting Demands

A fourth showdown between Manny Pacquiao and his longtime rival, Juan Manuel Marquez, will happen. Yes, it’s not official yet. Sure, Pacquiao still needs to fight Timothy Bradley on June 9. And okay, Floyd Mayweather Jr. may shock the world and come out of jail appreciating the prospect of a Dream Match much more than he did going in. At the moment, however, all signs point another bout
between Pacquiao and Marquez being inevitable.





Seeing as just about everyone knows that a fourth fight between Pacquiao and Marquez is a foregone conclusion, the folks involved are already hard at work trying to figure out the best way to put it together.

Last week, we saw Top Rank boss Bob Arum try to play it coy in regards to negotiating this bout, making it seem like dealing with Marquez and his camp was no big deal. We noted here on Opposing Views that Arum’s nonchalant attitude was just him trying to retain leverage for talks and, really, all signs point to that being as true today as it was then.

Recently, however, Marquez flipped the script. Now he’s trying to make a power play, particularly in regards to the locale of a potential fight between him and Pacquiao. As reported by Boxing Scene:

"For a new fight with Pacquiao, I'm going to ask for us not to do it in Las Vegas. I have robbed there three times, and I do not want it happening again. I disagree with the manner of designating the judges by the Commission of Nevada. I will ask for the fight to be made ​​in Texas or California, where things are more flexible in a matter of [selecting] judges. Moreover, if you will, the judges should be integrated with a Mexican, a Filipino and an American. What I want is to have honest, impartial judges appointed," Marquez said.

It’s hard to envision Marquez winning this battle. While it’s admittedly getting more and more difficult to find worthy challengers for Pacquiao, it’s still far more lucrative for Marquez to fight Pacquiao than it is for Pacquiao to fight Marquez. That, in turn, gives the Filipino champion a lot more leverage when it comes to setting terms and making demands than it would be for Dinamita.

Pacquiao's Full Focus on Training Despite Distractions

It’s been a bumpy week for Manny Pacquiao with all the anti-gay sentiments having aired in the past few days. With the upcoming Bradley vs. Pacquiao fight looming over the corner, both Pacquiao and Bradley doesn’t want to get involve in another distraction or two.

While Pacquiao is busy with some distractions happening in his camp this week, Timothy Bradley on the other hand is as focus as an eagle for his upcoming fight with Pacquiao next month.







“Everything is going good, man,” Bradley said during an interview with Chris Robinson.

Bradley has already talked with Joel Diaz, and according to the trainer, Bradley did over 115 rounds of sparring. The numbers are high enough for a fighter training that hard as Pacquiao is worth the preparation when it comes to the sport of boxing.

Beside from Pacquiao putting an unimpressive performance with Manuel Marquez last November. Pacquiao’s training camp has been smooth all the way even after his remarks on gay marriage put a lot of distraction on his toes.

Even Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum, expressed his thoughts with HBO’s Jim Lampley.

“My problem is what Pacquiao are we going to see?” Arum said. “You have to understand, since the last fight last November, he has become a totally different person.” Arum added.

As of now Manny has already begun changing the way of the past. Many have doubted that Pacquiao had already lose that magical touch in boxing while others are as hopeful he could score a nice big convincing TKO for Bradley on June 9th.  Bradley isn’t going to give the fight that easily as this could be his chance on convincing the world that he is the one who defeated Pacquaio in the Pacquiao vs. Bradley fight.

Bradley Confident That He is 10 Time Better Than Marquez

With roughly 3 weeks left for training before the Pacquiao vs. Bradley fight, both camps is already showing signs of accomplishment. Both camps have made it clear that their fighter  will be victorious in battle and even coaches are firing each other out.

“He’s overrated” said Diaz in an interview with regards to coach Freddie Roach’s fighting style.

Joel Diaz who had trained fighters in the past shared his thoughts when it come to training their fighter and why their fighter should win the match.








In boxing criticism is never absent and it is always part of the game. Bradley also stated that he is not afraid of Pacquiao and is 10x better than Marquez. The undefeated boxer intends to follow the footsteps of Pacquiao’s arch enemy Juan Manuel Marquez who gave him one hell of a fight last November.

“He couldn’t stop a 38-year-old Marquez, so he’s definitely not going to stop a 28-year old like myself,” remarked Bradley.

The 10 year age gap is a lot considering it is boxing and youth is what really matters. When a boxer goes beyond his prime it is all goodbye’s and sayanora’s and Bradley is confident that he could have Pacquiao on the ropes.

“Them may think that Marquez just has Manny’s but whatever Marquez can do. I can do 10 times better,” added Bradley.

Timothy Bradley is as focused as ever and not even criticisms can’t stop the boxer from winning his upcoming Pacquiao vs. Bradley fight.  In other news, Pacquiao, has also neglected criticisms over  boxing and preaching. Even sports analysts agree that it doesn’t harm Pacquiao’s training. Instead, Pacquiao reassured that he is focus on Bradley and have been enjoying his training ever since.

Pacquiao is set to fight Bradley this coming June 9th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Mayweather Thinks Bradley Can Pull an Upset


Pacquiao and Bradley are both different boxers and when it comes to training each camp has their own style. Pacquiao starts his morning run with a dozen of guys joining him together with his dog named Pacman.

After which Pacquiao retreats home to his apartment for some breakfast and a quick study time with a bible. By 2 p.m Pacquiao is already in the gym for his work out.





As shown in the recent 24/7, Bradley has a different routine that he follows. Bradley starts his day with his stepson Robert and helps him go to school. At around 10 a.m he is already going for a three-hour workout.

On his latest interview, Bradley said he will destroy Pacquiao and will crown himself as the new WBO champion.

Bradley has been criticized in the past for using his head often, but now he has changed and is now working on with his punches before using the rest of his body. He now fully understands that for an orthodox fighter facing a southpaw, head clashes usually happen often.

Bradley also wants to make the mistakes of Marquez last November. He instead plan to make a new strategy when facing Pacquiao.

In other news, Jeff Mayweather shared his thoughts on the Bradley vs. Pacquiao fight during a recent interview with examiner.com

Jeff thinks that Bradley is a solid fighter. “I think that Tim Bradley’s a solid fighter and he’s going to give a great account of himself,” Jeff said. “If Pacquiao’s slipping and he performs to the level he’s been performing as of late, he might even get upset.”

His remark is a direct opinion from Pacquiao’s recent fight with Marquez, in which Pacquiao had a hard time throwing Marquez off his feet.

Pacquiao Still Focus on Training Despite Distractions; Bradley is As Focus As Ever

It’s been a bumpy week for Manny Pacquiao with all the anti-gay sentiments having aired in the past few days. With the upcoming Bradley vs. Pacquiao fight looming over the corner, both Pacquiao and Bradley doesn’t want to get involve in another distraction or two.

While Pacquiao is busy with some distractions happening in his camp this week, Timothy Bradley on the other hand is as focus as an eagle for his upcoming fight with Pacquiao next month.





“Everything is going good, man,” Bradley said during an interview with Chris Robinson.

Bradley has already talked with Joel Diaz, and according to the trainer, Bradley did over 115 rounds of sparring. The numbers are high enough for a fighter training that hard as Pacquiao is worth the preparation when it comes to the sport of boxing.

Beside from Pacquiao putting an unimpressive performance with Manuel Marquez last November. Pacquiao’s training camp has been smooth all the way even after his remarks on gay marriage put a lot of distraction on his toes.

Even Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum, expressed his thoughts with HBO’s Jim Lampley.

“My problem is what Pacquiao are we going to see?” Arum said. “You have to understand, since the last fight last November, he has become a totally different person.” Arum added.

As of now Manny has already begun changing the way of the past. Many have doubted that Pacquiao had already lose that magical touch in boxing while others are as hopeful he could score a nice big convincing TKO for Bradley on June 9th.  Bradley isn’t going to give the fight that easily as this could be his chance on convincing the world that he is the one who defeated Pacquaio in the Pacquiao vs. Bradley fight.

Pacquiao vs Bradley 24/7 Episode 2

On Saturday evening, HBO debuted Road to Pacquiao vs. Bradley 24/7 episode 2. The episode brought us back inside both of their camps as fight night approaches just two weeks away. Right here, you can watch the video of the second episode of Manny Pacquiao- Timothy Bradley 24-7.

Pacquiao vows to dazzle live on Primetime (Sky Channel 480)

Filipino superstar Manny Pacquiao has experienced a religious awakening in recent months but he knows his new found pacifism cannot be carried into the ring when he faces the undefeated three-time world champion Timothy Bradley on Saturday June 9th, live on Primetime (Sky Channel 480 and Virgin on Demand). The reigning WBO welterweight world champion is keen to impress, but he knows he will have his work cut out against the young and hungry Bradley who cleaned up the 140lb division before now moving up in weight to face the legendary Pacquiao.




Following a close points decision win against his nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez last November, ‘Pacman’ is refusing to take his foot of the gas against the skilled Bradley.

“I don’t know what Tim Bradley will bring in the ring on that night but we will be ready for whatever he brings. I know he will be 100% conditioned for the fight. We have practiced every kind of fight in the ring with four different sparring partners,” said Pacquiao.

“Bradley is a different type of fighter [to Marquez] and we don’t take this fight lightly. We have trained hard for Bradley because he is the type of fighter we cannot underestimate. Tim Bradley is undefeated and he is a champion,” he said.

Pacquiao’s life outside the ring has recently undergone a transformation with the eight-time world champion now frequently left spending his free time reading the Bible whenever he is not training, or fulfilling his role as a Congressman in the Philippines.

However, he is adamant that his new devout lifestyle will not get in the way when he faces off against Bradley at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on June 9th.

“When I committed my life to the Lord I gave up many things that were not in keeping with what the Bible teaches. Boxing is a job and I do not look at it as anything more than that. It will not affect my job,” he said.

Pacquiao’s well renowned trainer Freddie Roach agrees and thinks that his new found piety can only help his prodigy.

“Manny’s focus is very good,” said Roach. “We don’t have days where he comes in tired and so forth because he has no nightlife whatsoever, besides the bible study. He is very focused on the fight. He and God are very close right now and he is just a better athlete – with no distractions,” he said.

Speaking about fight night, Roach added: “If a knockout comes it will be a bonus. Bradley is a great fighter and he’ll be resilient, but I think you’ll see the best Manny Pacquiao yet.”

In what is set to be one of the best fights of the year, Manny Pacquiao vs. Tim Bradley will be broadcast live and exclusive in the UK on Primetime (Sky Channel 480 and Virgin on Demand) On Pay Per View.

Pacquiao vs Bradley Fight Preview and Presser Video

Manny Pacquiao, the eight-times world champion in different weight division will be facing the undefeated American boxer Timothy Bradley for a star-studded June 9, 2012 boxing extravaganza to be held at the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.

The Pacquiao vs. Bradley will put at stake the WBO Welterweight World Title currently held by Manny Pacquiao. Timothy Bradley also held the Junior Welterweight champion title.

Timothy Bradley (28-0, 12 KOs), 28, of Palm Springs, California made a not so impressive 10th-round technical decision against Devon Alexander and followed it up with a win against former lightweight champion Joel Casamayor during the Pacquiao vs. Marquez III fight.

The 33-year-old Manny Pacquiao (54-3-2, 38 KOs) last fight with arch-rival Juan Manuel Marquez ended in a not so impressive technical decision win but boxing supporters from around the world was not impressed with Manny’s performance against Marquez last November.

Bradley: I don’t want the Pacquiao fight to end on a head-butt

‘Desert Storm’ keen to avoid clashes on June 9th

WBO light-welterweight champion Timothy Bradley has spoken out about the possibility of head clashes in his upcoming welterweight title challenge against Manny Pacquiao amidst accusations that he does it intentionally.






The 28 year-old two-time unified 140lb belt holder is gearing up for the biggest fight of his career in two weeks’ time at the MGM Grand and wants to win the fight fairly to put himself in the pound for pound bracket.

"I definitely don't want this fight to end on a head-butt," Bradley told RingTV.com. "I don't want a head-butt or a clash to happen, because I don’t want any excuses at the end of the day.

"I've been working on it in the gym, over and over and over. I've been very successful with it in sparring and keeping my balance... You know, throwing my shots before coming in with my head.

“Throwing my shots out and then stepping in as opposed to stepping in and throwing my shots.

"So I definitely have to try to avoid head-butts and just be smart in there, man. That's pretty much it. But it's not going to take away from my game plan," he said.

Pacquiao, 33, represents a mammoth task for the likeable Californian, who has scrapped his way to the top and seems to have divided opinion as to whether or not he can pull of a shock against the Filipino legend on Saturday week.