Mayweather would’ve won over Pacquiao 5 years ago, but not on May 2—Roach

By: Mark Giongco - 10 years ago

Freddie Roach. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Had Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao met earlier in their careers, Mayweather would’ve emerged victorious.

But not on May 2.

Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach thinks Mayweather would’ve beaten his prized ward Pacquiao five years ago back when both fighters were just early in their 30s and were at the peak of their careers.

“Five years ago, Floyd would’ve beaten Manny,” Roach told ESPN’s Skip Bayless. “But Manny has more heart now. You really don’t realize just how fast Manny or how hard he hits until you get actually hit by him.”

Roach has predicted that Pacquiao will knockout Mayweather “very late” in the fight scheduled at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

He also said Mayweather’s legs are not built to get him out of harm’s way for twelve rounds with Pacquiao constantly on the attack.