Pacquiao trains through pain, challenges Mayweather again

Manny Pacquiao complained of body pains in the early phase of his light training yesterday but just like in his TV commercial, the eight-division world champion ignored the discomfort to finish his workout at his Wild Card Gym in General Santos City.

Barely four days into the physical conditioning aspects of his preparations for defending the World Boxing Organization welterweight crown against Chris Algieri on Nov. 23, Pacquiao emerged with aching joints and muscles after months of low activity while trying to adjust to the training regimen.

“He’s okay,” trainer Buboy Fernandez told the Inquirer. “It (pain) is normal. He shadow boxed for a few rounds and did light workouts just to sweat it out.”

Fernandez, who is taking care of the training until the arrival of chief trainer Freddie Roach, explained that Pacquiao may have over-exerted himself in their training Wednesday afternoon where they went through five rounds each in the mitts, punching bags, speed ball and double-end bags.

Though Pacquiao was supposed to do roadwork Wednesday morning, Fernandez canceled it as Sarangani Province’s lone representative played basketball Tuesday night.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao threw down a fresh challenge to Floyd Mayweather Jr. on Thursday, daring the unbeaten American to “fight me” instead of setting terms that could torpedo the dream bout.

“He’s all talk,” Pacquiao told AFP. “Until now he has not yet agreed to fight me. Instead of blabbing he should face me atop the ring.” Roy Luarca