Controversial trainer Angel “Memo” Heradia helping Mayweather’s preparation for Pacquiao. /Roy Luarca
LAS VEGAS—There’s a new addition to the Floyd Mayweather Jr. camp, and he should be a cause of concern for Manny Pacquiao.
Angel “Memo” Heredia, considered a guru of sports medicine, said he’s helping Mayweather prepare for his Fight of the Century against Pacquiao on May 2 at MGM Grand Garden Arena.
According to Heredia, of the infamous doping fiasco involving track and field stars Marion Jones and Tim Montgomery, he’s giving advice to Alex Ariza, Mayweather’s strength and conditioning coach who formerly worked for Pacquiao before being given the boot due to a rift with chief trainer Freddie Roach.
Heredia, who was credited for Juan Manuel Marquez’s perceptible change in physique and strength when the Mexican legend fought and knocked out Pacquiao in the sixth round of their fourth showdown in 2012, said Ariza is a friend and colleague, but relishes the thought they will be at opposing corners anytime.
Though Heredia, who listed himself as a chemist, scientist, nutritionist, admits that Pacquiao is “dangerous,” he said he’s picking Mayweather to prevail.
“I like Floyd, he trains hard,” said Heredia, now working with the Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Acedemy where he’s training Filipino prospects Marvin “Marvelous” Sonsona and Johnriel Casimero.
Though Mayweather hasn’t knock out an opponent for a long time, Heredia said “there’s a strong possibility it would come (in this fight).”
Heredia said Mayweather is fast, explosive and technical while Pacquiao’s vaunted power seems to be decreasing.
For more updates on Pacquiao-Mayweather “Fight of the Century,” visit The Pacquiao Files.