By Dennis Principe

FREDDIE Roach is never known to have backed down both as a prized fighter mixing it up with the best during his time, and as a trainer trying to parry an opposing guru’s rudeness.
 
While he has showed utmost respect to their upcoming opponent’s trainer Robert Garcia during their Asian press tour, Roach feels the 2011 Trainer of the Year awardee is not the man to dread in terms of preparing Brandon Rios sharpen his boxing skills.
 
Roach believes that Garcia’s father Eduardo could impart meaningful techniques to Rios once they slug it out with Manny Pacquiao on November 24 in Macau.


 
“I don’t fear anyone but if I have to say who’s got the most boxing knowledge in that camp, it’s the father,” Roach told this writer “His dad is a very knowledgeable boxing person. I respect him a lot. I’m sure he’s helping his son watching tapes and come up with a better game plan.”
 
The 70-year-old Garcia is a former amateur fighter who has compiled a record of 48-2. He is noted for guiding his sons Robert and Mikey to become world champions in the professional ranks.
 
The elder Garcia also trained former world kingpins Fernando Vargas, and Victor Ortiz.
 
“I’ve seen him with so many different fighters, every fighter is a different type of fighter and he changes well with fighters. He’s more of a counterpunching teacher and most of his fighters are counterpunchers like both his sons were.”

Roach said Mikey improved a lot when he decided to undergo training with his father.

“Mikey was kind of a raw, tough guy when he was with Robert then when he went to his dad he became a better boxer. I think the Dad is more of a technician than, maybe me. Because I’m a little bit more on the offensive side,” said Roach.
 
While Roach has no idea if Eduardo is indeed or will be part of Team Rios for the Pacquiao fight, the many-time Philippine visitor is not taking chances when it comes to hiring sparmates.
 
“The father is the one who can actually change his game plan that’s why I have boxers who does different punches. I try to think ahead of him and be ready for whatever he may bring,” said Roach.
 
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