Penalosa, Velasco predict KO win for Pacquiao

Gerry Penalosa and Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco at the Top Rank Gym in Las Vegas. Photo by Roy Luarca/INQUIRER

LAS VEGAS–To ordinary watchers at Top Rank Gym Wednesday, the changes in Manny Pacquiao’s ring movements, timing, speed and power are barely discernible.

Accomplished boxers like Gerry Penalosa and Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco, however, view them from a different angle and perspective.

They can readily spot even subtle improvements.

Penalosa and Velasco acknowledged Pacquiao’s new-found power, even speed, which is amazing considering that the eight-division world champion is turning 38 on Dec. 17.

“Manny’s punches are strong and precise,” said Penalosa, a retired two-division world champion.

“I think Vargas will fall from the eighth to the tenth rounds.”

Velasco, the 1996 Atlanta Olympics silver medalist, predicted it would happen earlier.

“From sixth to eighth,” said Velasco, noting that Pacquiao even gained more speed and was exact on his timing.

If Vargas chooses to fight it out, it might come earlier.