MACAU—Even an amateur great like Zou Shiming can learn many things from training with Manny Pacquiao.
Zou, the poster boy of China boxing as a two-time Olympic and three-time World Amateur champion, beat Mexican Juan Toscano by unanimous decision in their highly applauded six-round flyweight battle here Sunday.
Also trained by Freddie Roach, Zou worked himself along with Pacquiao for six weeks at the Wild Card Gym in General Santos City.
And Pacquiao’s work ethic rubbed off on the 5-foot-6 Zou, who previously trained at Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Hollywood.
Faster on his feet and stronger with his punches, Zou bloodied Toscano’s cheek in the third round and went on to earn the judges’ nod, 60-54, 60-54, 60-52.
With Roach and Filipino trainer Marvin Somodio working his corner, Zou posted his third straight win in the pro ranks and promised better things to come.
“I’m getting better all the time,” Zou said through an interpreter. “I have a great training camp and was motivated with the way Manny trains.”
“He is a great champion and an inspiration, added Zou.
Zou’s victory is expected to further spur interest in the sport in China, where Top Rank chief Bob Arum intends to gain foothold.