With Pacquiao vs Bradley III set to go for April 9th, what can boxing fans expect from this rubber match between two of boxing’s hottest properties? In terms of the outcome, we’d have to look well beyond the Tale of the Tape before calling how the action might unfold. Put simply, an awful lot has happened since their 2014 sequel which saw Manny Pacquiao take home a Unanimous Decision, avenging his controversial 2012 loss.
While Pacquiao is the more accomplished fighter on paper, Pacquiao vs Bradley III is arguably a crosswords kind of encounter. Pacquiao, while still a handful for most 147-pounders, isn’t quite the force of old, and has been showing signs of decline over the past 2-3 years. Meanwhile, Timothy Bradley has remained consistent in his performances, and exhibited increased discipline in his one-sided victory over Brandon Rios recently.
I’m not sure who the sensible money goes on here, but for the sake of argument I’d have to go with Bradley. Mentally, physically, he just has the edge for me. The man is one of the most dedicated, hungry fighters in boxing – of the mainstream variety, at least – stays clear of yo-yo dieting between office hours, and has plenty of well-rounded ability. In my opinion, enough to beat Pacquiao now. And I stress the word ‘now’.
While a win for Pacquiao wouldn’t be a jaw-dropping upset, I think Bradley, 32, has a little too much in his repertoire, and the more so with new trainer Teddy Atlas in tow, a man who is sanding down some rough edges. Bradley has retained his athleticism, speed and agility, but is now more defensively-minded (so far, anyway).
It might all come down to what Pacquiao, 37, has left in the tank on fight night. Will his seat in politics – waiting after this (very likely) final fight – be a distraction/motivation killer? Will Pacquiao’s shoulder injury – exacerbated during May’s Floyd Mayweather clash – resurface against Bradley? And will Pacquiao, already a first ballet future Hall of Famer, have the drive necessary to leave it all in the ring?
Chime in with your own thoughts on Pacquiao vs Bradley III, fight fans, and stay tuned for more on this event as it happens. Happy New Year from Boxing Base, and remember: drink plenty and make a fool of yourself!
