The fight will be strategic and tactical

We’re now down to the last four days  before the fight and only the weigh-in and other pre-fight hoopla remain on the checklist for the Pacquiao-Mayweather duel this weekend.

Reports from the Inquirer Task Force in Las Vegas reveal the last-minute rituals, distractions and idiosyncrasies. Hollywood and sports stars have darted in and out of camps revealing that film immortals are also fight fans at heart.

The training camps have been closed down with only walk-throughs and the pre-fight warm-ups as major tasks left.  Both Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. have been tireless workhorses in their preparations, both cognizant of the long-term impact of this long-awaited showdown.

It will come down to the better fight strategy and the tactical weapons to make the adjustments as the fight proceeds.  We can expect both fighters going to their strengths from the opening bell, as this will be the first time the two will face each other in the ring.

Pacquiao will come out bouncing and ready to engage.  He will be looking for angles throughout the fight, even risking being open at times to encourage Mayweather to throw more.  The retooled right hand will be pumping right away, leading the opportunity to force Mayweather to duck left, rendering him open for the left hook.

Pacquiao will also tirelessly attempt to cut Mayweather’s length by going in, acting at times like a counterpuncher.  If there’s one thing Freddie Roach has masterfully crafted in Pacquiao is Pacman’s ability to wait for the openings and not just bang away recklessly.

We all love the old Pacquiao that demolished also-rans in the old Blow-by-Blow TV show and a slew of Mexican champions.  But the more patient present-day Pacquiao will wait for his chances to finally land one on Mayweather.

Will Pacquiao go for the knockout? Yes, he will.  It is the most definitive way for him to conquer Mayweather.  Even if we conclude in the long run that Pacquiao won every round, there’s always that small chance the judges will assess the fight differently.

For Mayweather, the shoulder defense will be there but look out for the snappy counterpunches he’ll unload in an attempt to tear down Pacquiao.  Mayweather likes to swarm over opponents with everything he has—elbows, shoulders, arms and hand—and will definitely look to break down Pacquiao’s will and determination.

Watch also how Mayweather takes advantage of those moments when Pacquiao becomes careless and drops his defenses to charge through.  Mayweather did not achieve a 47-0 record by chance: He is a crafty, wily ring craftsman and will use everything he has to end Pacquiao’s challenge.

Get ready for a great fight.  Pray for a Pacquiao win because a triumph against Mayweather will be a boost and a balm for this battered country.  But check out also how Mayweather executes strategy and tactics against arguably the best he will ever face.

Follow  twitter@spsortssev.