The Round Table: Pacquiao vs. Bradley!
It’s been difficult to find anyone who was giving Timothy Bradley more than just a “shot” or “chance” at beating Manny Pacquiao on Saturday night.
Those I spoke to believe it’s not a total mismatch and even agreed that the fighter from Palm Springs Ca. possesses the superior skill-set and ability to out box the Filipino superstar.
Yet, when all was said and done, no one believed Bradley would shock the world and pull off the upset.
Cesar G: Manny is Manny, I won’t be force fed the fact that he has lost a step. He’s fast and explosive and all he has to do is be himself. Aggressive and unpredictable.
Victor G: I don’t think Pacquiao is the same but Bradley’s lack of power is what concerns me. Pacquiao can take a shot and still come forward. They both posses speed but when Manny lands, he will drop Bradley.
Joey G: Bradley has to take chances. He doesn’t posses big K.O power but he needs to go for it. Problem is, if he fails Pacquiao will make his ass pay.
Art G: Bradley needs to box but not run. He has the ability and the athleticism to go the distance but he can’t allow Pacquiao to push him back the entire night. He has to earn his respect in the eyes of the judges because let’s face it, I don’t think anyone is picking Bradley by K.O.
Cesar G: It’ll be Pacquiao by KO.
Victor G: I see it going the distance. I just don’t see Pacquiao finishing him.
Joey G: I see Pacquiao standing strong and taking Bradley’s best power shots, knocking him down with a right hook. I predict Bradley going down at least once. Bradley needs a knockout. There’s no way he wins on the cards.
Art G: I think at welterweight, Bradley is out of his element. He can adjust and box like he did against Lamont Peterson but Pacquiao will be in his face the whole night. I see Bradley getting caught up in an exchange, where he is actually winning or getting the best of Pac. His wild tendencies will be what loses this fight.
Photo Credit : Chris Farina - Top Rank
Bottom line seems to be, Bradley needs to box and be aggressive but not leave himself exposed, otherwise he losses a decision. Seeing Kendal Holt rag doll Bradley makes him seem a little vulnerable but his overall athleticism carries him through 12.. if it’s not corner or referee stopped. Pacquiao is an explosively aggressive fighter that will likely outwork Bradley if he can find him. He’s acclimated to 147 and will be the heavier handed guy. He is at home under the bright lights and lets face it, he only gets stronger as the fight goes on.
That being said, you can’t help but root for the underdog!
