Manny Pacquiao in training. Screengrab from his Instagram account.
HOLLYWOOD— Manny Pacquiao isn’t 100 percent yet, but at this stage he’s “ready to fight.”
That’s according to assistant trainer Nonoy Neri, who says Pacquiao’s transformation for his Fight of the Century with Floyd Mayweather on May 2 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas has amazed everyone in the Filipino superstar’s training camp.
“He’s really different now,” said Neri in Filipino. “The way he trains, his focus for the fight—unbelievable.”
Pacquiao, he said, is no longer content on just running up Griffith Park, he now circles it as well.
Neri said Pacquiao’s power, endurance and speed have been enhanced by the intensity and dedication he has shown even as training went full blast at chief trainer Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Gym here.
Pacquiao’s punches have also become heavier, according to Roach’s assistant, with his two sparring partners last Saturday grimacing from the impact of the heavy blows.
Roach worries, though, Pacquiao might peak too soon that he gave his prized ward an unscheduled break Tuesday afternoon.
Pacquiao did his early-morning run at Pan Pacific Park, but Roach cancelled what should have been at least 10 rounds of sparring.
According to Neri, the fighting congressman, even at his present form, will be a difficult target for Mayweather on fight night.
“He moves beautifully, his footwork and constant head movement make him an elusive target,” said Neri, who doubles as Pacquiao’s personal cook during training camps.
Neri said they are now working on Pacquiao’s range and timing in unloading his punches.
“We have a good game plan and we have many options,” said Neri. “We’ll be ready for whatever Mayweather will bring in the ring.”
For more updates on Pacquiao-Mayweather “Fight of the Century,” visit The Pacquiao Files.