Manny Pacquiao wraps up his Los Angeles training with morning run, mitt works, drills and sparring with the boxer named Saul Bustos according to the report of ABS-CBN sports reporter, TJ Manotoc. Los Angeles is buzzing, and the air is thick with anticipation as the legendary Manny Pacquiao wraps up his training camp, just days before his highly-anticipated showdown with Mario Barrios in Las Vegas, Pacquiao vs. Barrios. From the streets of LA to the hallowed halls of Wild Card Gym, Pacman is leaving no stone unturned in his quest for another historic victory.
ABS-CBN’s TJ Manotoc reported from the heart of the action, giving fans a glimpse into the final stages of Pacquiao’s rigorous preparation. This isn’t just about punching bags and sparring; it’s about the relentless spirit of a champion (see the video below).
The morning started with a familiar sight for LA locals and visiting fans: Manny Pacquiao hitting the pavement for his morning run. But this wasn’t a solitary exercise. Throngs of adoring fans joined the eight-division champion, running alongside him as he made his way to Pan Pacific Park. It’s a testament to the deep connection Pacquiao shares with his supporters, a bond that clearly fuels his drive. After the scenic run, it was straight into a grueling abdominal workout – a staple of his iron-clad core that has absorbed countless blows over the years. The afternoon brought the true test, as Pacquiao returned to his second home, the Wild Card Gym. The atmosphere was electric as he engaged in a sparring session with Saul Bustos, a Mexican-American fighter chosen specifically for his height and style, mirroring that of Mario Barrios.
And what a session it was! Bustos himself was reportedly left awestruck by Pacquiao’s power and elusive movement. “I can’t even see where his punches are coming from every time various angles kicks in,” Bustos marvelled, a high compliment from a professional boxer. This speaks volumes about the enduring speed and deceptive angles that have defined Pacquiao’s illustrious career, even at 46 years old.
Pacquiao, ever the strategist, emphasized the importance of studying his opponent’s habits. He believes Barrios will undoubtedly unleash his usual arsenal on fight night, and Pacman is determined to be ready for every single punch. This meticulous preparation, combined with his natural talent, is why many, including Bustos, are predicting a big night for the Filipino icon. Bustos even went so far as to say there’s a “big chance that Pacquiao will knock out Barrios.” Pacquiao’s final day in LA culminated with mitt works and drills, but a crucial element of this camp has been the careful management of his training load. His coaching staff has been diligently controlling his rounds to prevent over-practice, a wise strategy given his age. At 46, recovery is important, ensuring that his incredible speed and strength, which are still very much present, remain at their peak for the Pacquiao vs. Barrios fight night.
The team’s collective sentiment is one of immense satisfaction. All previous worries about the fight have reportedly vanished, a strong indication of Pacquiao’s exceptional conditioning and readiness. With the intense Los Angeles training camp now concluded, Manny Pacquiao is set to make the short trip to Las Vegas on Monday, where the final countdown to the Pacquiao vs. Barrios event will begin. The stage is set, the legend is ready, and the boxing world waits with bated breath to see if Pacman can once again defy the odds and make history.
The question if his practice is enough to finish off Barrios and prove to the world that Pacquiao’s age does not matter to this clash, will be answered only in the boxing ring and we are anticipating it! You can cast your vote in here: Pacquiao vs Barrios poll and leave comment regarding how you feel about this fight.