Pacquiao to win by first-round KO, says Roach

By on 9:13 AM

Source: gmanews.tv

Freddie Roach warned those who will watch the Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez fight not to blink especially in the opening minutes of their 12-round title match. It could be over even before one knows it.

"Don't be surprised if this fight goes one round. I know that's a bold statement," said Roach as he wrapped up the Filipino champion's final day of workout at the Wild Card gym Monday (Tuesday in Manila) in Los Angeles following an extensive two-month training.

"I think he (Marquez) will try to exchange with Manny, come after Manny because he has hurt Manny a couple of times in the past. But if he does that, he’ll end up on the floor."

It hasn't escape Roach's eyes how Marquez has bulked up in the past two months that he's been training for his third meeting with the "Pacman" after coming close to beating the pound-for-pound king in two previous encounters in the past.

And it surely delights the 51-year-old trainer if Marquez climbs the ring as advertised.

"There's only one reason why they put on those muscles in so short a time. And I think it's a mistake and I love it for my guy," said Roach, a five-time Trainer of the Year awardee.

If and when Marquez comes out blazing in the first few rounds, Roach said Pacquiao will be more than ready.

"There's only one way to use that effectively (weight program) and that's to fight Manny Pacquiao," said Roach. "I think he will come out and exchange with us. I told Manny to be ready for a fast start because this guy will come out and try to get you out that early."

"But I really, really hope that happens because I think that would be to our favor."