Roach lines up rising sparmates for Pacquiao

(AP File Photo/Nick Ut)

MANILA, Philippines—For Freddie Roach, the infusion of young blood into Manny Pacquiao’s training camp will do wonders for his ward.

In a GMA News report Tuesday, Roach said all six sparring partners he has lined up for Pacquiao are rising stars who approximate the stance and style of Floyd Mayweather Jr. in the ring.

Among those who will get a crack at Pacquiao is Kenneth Simms Jr., who watched Pacquiao’s training at Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Hollywood Monday afternoon (Tuesday in Manila).

The 21-year-old Simms, who is from Chicago, holds a 5-0 win-loss card with two knockouts.

Also in the fold is Rashidi Ellis, another 21-year-old prime prospect who has been described as a slick mover with an impressive 14-0 (11 KOs) record.

Roach has scheduled Pacquiao’s first sparring session for his May 2 Fight of the Century against Mayweather on Tuesday (Wednesday in Manila). Sparring will continue Thursdays and Saturdays with Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays reserved for training and conditioning.

READ: Pacquiao spars in 2 weeks, says Fortune

“From these young guys will come future world champions,” Roach said.

Barely three weeks into his preparations, Pacquiao has already impressed strength and conditioning coach Justin Fortune.

According to Fortune, Pacquiao is ready for the tougher grind ahead.

To avoid rushing Pacquiao’s buildup, the first sparring session is slated for only four rounds.