Floyd’s legs are shot, says Arum

MANILA, Philippines — Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s defensive skills, ring savvy and boxing know-how have, arguably, stayed intact.

But for trained eyes like Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum’s, there’s something lacking in Mayweather’s arsenal now—his legs have slowed, for instance—and it could put him at a disadvantage when he fights Manny Pacquiao on May 2 in Las Vegas.

“People who don’t follow boxing too much don’t understand how important legs are,” Arum told cbssports.com.

“There’s no question that Floyd’s legs have slowed up. That happens, generally, with fighters. It’s very significant with Floyd, because his leg movement was part of his great defensive arsenal. And he doesn’t have that anymore.”

The 83-year-old Arum acknowledges Mayweather’s other strengths, though.

“He’s still smart as hell,” said Pacquiao’s promoter. “He still defends well. He understands boxing. But the legs are five years older than they were then.”

According to Arum, founder and CEO of Top Rank Promotions, the legs are vital for Mayweather’s success and he needs them more than Pacquiao.

“Manny is an offensive fighter. So whatever type of speed he’s lost is not as relevant as a guy who’s a defensive fighter,” said Arum, predicting a decisive victory for Pacquiao in the Fight of the Century set at MGM Grand.

“I think Manny has been playing this fight over in his mind for five years. I think he’s in great, great shape, I think his game plan is terrific. I think he wins the fight decisively.”

Meanwhile, Pacquiao’s wife Jinkee and their five children will arrrive in Los Angeles on Friday.