It took Manny Pacquiao just five rounds Tuesday to convince chief trainer Freddie Roach that their preparations for Australian Jeff Horn will go on smoothly. Pacquiao sparred for three rounds with welterweight Kenneth Simms (12-0, 4 KOs) and two against lightweight Edis Totli (29-2, 10 KOs) at Elorde Gym near SM Mall of Asia. “Manny looked so fresh today. I’m very happy with what he showed me,” Roach said. —ROY LUARCA
Mondilla seeks No. 2
In-form Clyde Mondilla will lead the assault on the Villamor layout when the ICTSI Philippine Masters returns to the local golf calendar Wednesday. Mondilla bested Filipino aces Miguel Tabuena and Tony Lascuña by one shot last week to rule the ICTSI Manila Southwoods Championship. And with Villamor similar to where he honed his game, Mondilla is upbeat on his chances of improving on his winning 22-under 266 total at Southwoods’ Legends course. Tuesday’s pro-am was won by Orlan Sumcad and amateur partners Benjie Castañeda, Bong Sacro and Angelo David with a 17-under 55 total. —ROY LUARCA
Diaz eyes Indoor medal
Weightlifting star Hidilyn Diaz could achieve two career breakthroughs in the forthcoming 5th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan. Apart from being the sure pick as the country’s flag-bearer, the Rio de Janeiro Olympic silver medalist is targeting at least a bronze medal in the 62-nation Games on Sept. 17 to 27. —JUNE NAVARRO