‘Transformation’ of Pacquiao leaves Arum impressed

From lethargic to terrific, says Arum of Pacquiao in training. AP Photo

MANILA, Philippines — From lethargic to terrific.

That’s the amazing transformation Manny Pacquiao underwent in a few days, according to revered promoter Bob Arum, who saw it unfold at the Wild Card Gym in Hollywood.

“The first time I saw him, he looked a little bit sluggish, like he didn’t want to be there,” Arum told Brad Cooney of Examiner.com. “It must have been because it was only a few days after arriving from the Philippines.”

Pacquiao, who’s preparing for his fourth showdown with Juan Manuel Marquez on Dec. 8, reported for training camp under Freddie Roach in Los Angeles on Oct. 27.

Arum saw Pacquiao’s first sparring on Oct. 30 and wasn’t impressed, but the 80-year-old Hall of Famer knew he needed to return before giving out a verdict.

Take Two was different altogether.

“The second time I saw him, he looked terrific, just sensational,” Arum said. “Pacquiao is bound and determined to knock Marquez out, and Marquez is determined to knock Manny out. That’s what makes this an exciting fight.”

Pacquiao, however, believes Marquez isn’t going to bring the fight to him.

“He’s going to fight me the same way he always has,” Pacquiao told Worldboxingnews.net. “I will be the aggressor in this fight. It’s critical.” Roy Luarca