LAS VEGAS—Expect Timothy Bradley to dominate Manny Pacquiao in their rematch on Nov. 10.
This was the bold prediction of Bradley trainer Joel Diaz, who believes that his fighter had done enough to merit the split decision over the Filipino icon amid a howl of protests at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
“He (Bradley) was running, he was moving, he was connecting,” said the 39-year-old Diaz, a former world lightweight contender himself. “He fought a more consistent fight.”
Diaz, brother of former world champions Antonio and Julio, said he instructed Bradley “to move, but don’t jump around,” when informed of the nagging pain on his ankle.
“From my end, Tim dominated Pacquiao,” insisted Diaz. “Tim made Pacquiao miss. Let’s give the kid a break. They don’t own the judges nor personally know them.”
Diaz said if his ward can win on a hurting foot, the more he’ll be able to control Pacquiao’s movements the next time they meet.
“With two good feet, he’ll do better.”
According to Diaz, it was determination and courage that carried Bradley through, adding that Bradley once fought with a broken rib, but ignored the pain to win by decision.
After finding out that Pacquiao was indeed powerful and fast, Diaz said he told Bradley to move farther back, especially in the last 10 seconds of each round.
“Those times, Pacquiao wants to attack and hurt more,” said Diaz.