‘Teacher’ Manny Pacquiao eager to take Keith Thurman to school

Pacquiao sparred with AB Lopez for four rounds then did six rounds of mitts at Wild Card before heading to Las Vegas. pic.twitter.com/0AaKWigS3x

— Mark Giongco (@MarkGiongcoINQ) July 16, 2019

LAS VEGAS—In a matchup of youth versus experience, Manny Pacquiao is out to take Keith Thurman to school.

Pacquiao, who is 10 years older, wears many hats aside from being a world champion boxer and come fight night, add mentor to the list.

“Keith Thurman has it easy. His only job is to train for this fight.  I have three jobs.  I am a fighter.  I am a public servant.  And on Saturday, I am going to be Keith Thurman’s teacher,” said the 40-year-old Pacquiao, who is gunning for a third consecutive win after dominating Lucas Matthysse and Adrien Broner in his last two bouts.

Thurman has been running his mouth since the welterweight showdown was announced months ago, but all the trash talk has only motivated Pacquiao even more to perform.

Manny Pacquiao after Saturday’s gym session at Wild Card Gym. Wendell Alinea/MP Promotions

“I have heard everything he has said about me.  I have heard everything he has said he will do to me in the fight.  Those things he says about me do not make me angry.  They inspire me,” he said.

Thurman (29-0, 22 KOs) looks to make Pacquiao hang up his gloves for good, but the Filipino ring sensation has other plans in mind and retirement isn’t one of them.

“This has been the best training camp I have had in years.  Keith Thurman thinks he is going to retire me.  I am not ready to look back.  I am still looking forward.  Keith Thurman is going to be very surprised by what he sees from me in the ring.  He is going to leave the ring a very disappointed fighter.”