From the very beginning,
I've thought Timothy Bradley was a tough match-up for Manny Pacquiao. Nothing I've seen,
heard or felt leading into this week has changed that. This will be real
challenge for the Filipino icon. Bradley looks to be the bigger guy in there
and I think he'll show that he has much more craftiness to his game than perceived.
In my opinion, the key for Bradley is to make sure he changes speeds in there, shuffles
the deck and doesn’t become too repetitive. In other words, don't fall into the
trap of doing the same thing over and over again. There are certain points in
the fight where I think he'll have to back off and let Pacquiao come to him and
box. At other stages he’ll have to come behind a hard jab, try and work inside
and be physical. All the while, Bradley needs to feint often and tuck in that
chin.
I think Bradley has a high
boxing I.Q. to go along with his impressive physical attributes. He'll have to
exhibit that throughout this fight and realize that at any point, Pacquiao can
turn this fight around with one shot. Ostensibly, discretion will be the better
part of valor for Bradley.
No, Bradley is not a great
puncher but he is a well-rounded, tough, hardnosed guy with competitive
character that Pacquiao will have a hard time taking care of. Ladies and gentlemen,
I think we have a real prizefight on our hands this weekend.
