By Ronnie Nathanielsz
Filipino ring idol Manny Pacquiao has begun jogging in his effort to slowly get into shape for his July 2 war with former two-time super bantamweight champion Oscar Larios.
Pacquiao’s close friend and confidant Rex “Wakee” Salud said Pacquiao is tentatively scheduled to leave for the US to begin training at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Gym on May 5 although he has an invitation to watch Rodel Mayol’s WBC minimum weight title fight against Eagle Kyowa on May 6 in Tokyo from Mayol’s manager Yasuo Matsuoka.
Salud said it was best that Pacquiao remains in his hometown in General Santos City rather than return to Manila where he just cant seem to get the rest he needs.
Pacquiao recently entered hospital after doctors said he was suffering from over-fatigue following a hectic round of appearances, TV commercial shoots and long hours and late nights playing pool and indulging in cockfight derbies.
Pacquiao has been warned by Roach as well as Shelly Finkel, the head of his management team that Larios is a dangerous opponent. Pacquiao himself acknowledged the fact that Larios is taller than him, throws a lot of punches and has a good right straight which is the ideal counter against a southpaw like Pacquiao. Besides, he is a hungry fighter.
Salud said Larios is expected in Manila on April 27 to drum up interest in the showdown with Pacquiao.
