MANILA, Philippines—The search is on for Manny Pacquiao’s sparmates, who must be at least four inches taller than the reigning pound-for-pound king and willing to take the Filipino’s double-barreled fistic assault.

Trainer Freddie Roach Thursday announced on the website www.boxingscene.com that he is looking for tall boxers to spar with the 5-foot-6 Pacquiao, who on Dec. 6 will embark on a virtual David-versus-Goliath fight with Oscar De La Hoya at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao is set to leave for the United States on Sept. 14 and will report to Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Hollywood on Oct. 1.

“I can’t wait to start getting Manny ready for the fight,” added Roach, who also trained the 5-foot-10 De La Hoya for his fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr. in May last year.

De La Hoya lost in that bout via split decision.

Rod Nazario, Pacquiao’s former manager, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer it would be better if Team Pacquiao could get a sparmate who is not only taller but also approximates De La Hoya’s fighting style.

“I’m sure Freddie knows a lot of boxers who can spar with Manny,” said Nazario, who in the past tapped reigning World Boxing Council super bantamweight titlist Israel Vazquez to practice with Pacquiao.

Nazario said they used to pay a sparring mate $100 per hour. This amount is expected to be higher due to Pacquiao’s lofty status, he added.

De La Hoya, who at 35 will be going down two weight classes to meet Pacquiao at 147 pounds, has also started his preparation by setting up a training camp in Puerto Rico.

The 1992 Olympic lightweight gold medalist is married to Puerto Rican actress Millie Corretjer.

Reports said De La Hoya’s main concern is getting into shape in a weight class he last fought in seven years ago.

“There are always risks and rewards and I feel it is worth the risk and reward,” Roach said in the Internet interview. “I never take a fight I don’t think my fighter can win.”

Roach had earlier warned he would scrap the fight if De La Hoya fails to make the catchweight and comes in at 150 lb. De La Hoya had agreed to pay $3 million for every excess pound over 147.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao, who is tipped to get the fattest paycheck of his career, one that could top $23 million, has said he is down to his last three fights before retiring and venturing into politics.

The WBC lightweight champ, the first Asian to hold titles in four weight divisions, said in his column in the tabloid Abante that he wants to savor the fruits of his ring exploits and be with his family.

“I want to finish my career while I’m on top and retain the highest respect I have by retiring as a champion,” he said.