‘Cocky’ Algieri will find self in ‘different class’ vs Pacquiao

By: Bong Lozada - 10 years ago

Manny Pacquiao goes through his shadow boxing routine inside the Wildcard Gym in General Santos City. BONG LOZADA

GENERAL SANTOS, Philippines—It’s time for Chris Algieri to step into the men’s table.

Freddie Roach said the undefeated American was going into the squared circle to face one of the boxing world’s elite.

“This is a different class,” Roach said Wednesday afternoon at the Wildcard Gym here. “I know he’s durable but he’s going to go at it.”

On November 23, Algieri will face eight-division World Champion Manny Pacquiao in Macau.

Pacquiao engaged in a 10-round sparring session on Wednesday and would cut the number of rounds as the fight gets nearer.

With Air Asia owner Tony Fernandes looking on, Pacquiao practiced his combinations with Roach and took his turn on the heavy bag for several minutes.

Roach added that the “cocky” Algieri would face a “focused” Pacquiao inside the squared circle.

“Chris is so cocky, I’m tired of him,” Roach said.

When asked if Pacquiao would beat up Algieri, Roach had just the right subtlety.

“I believe so.”