Roach wants ‘De la Hoya-level training’ for Pacquiao vs Hatton

MANILA, Philippines – If Manny Pacquiao’s projected showdown with Ricky Hatton finally gets the green light, trainer Freddie Roach wants his boy to undergo the same regimen as he did when he trained for Oscar de la Hoya. “I want him to be there (Wild Card gym) first week of March," said Roach, stressing that the length of training should just be fine for Pacquiao in a proposed but yet-to-be-finalized May 2 play date with the Hitman in Las Vegas. Pacquiao prepared for more than two months for his fight against De la Hoya, a match that ended in a stunning eight-round technical knockout win for Pacquiao. That Roach wants his most prized ward to mimic his preparation time with De la Hoya for Hatton is well-founded. “Hatton’s a very good body puncher and is very dangerous," he admitted. A former junior lightweight champion, the noted puncher from Manchester, England packs an impressive win-loss record of 45-1, 32 of which came by way of knockout. His relentless style and vicious punching makes him “tailor-made" for Pacquiao, according to the two-time Trainer of the Year. “Manny should stay away from the ropes when he fights Hatton," said Roach. Along with Top Rank promoter Bob Arum, the celebrated trainer arrived in the country Tuesday to join the lavish celebration of Pacquiao’s 30th birthday. The two left for Los Angeles Thursday night via Philippine Airlines. – GMANews.TV