THE CAMP of Filipino boxing sensation Manny Pacquiao is expecting a tougher battle versus Mexican icon Marco Antonio Barrera this November.
Local trainer Buboy Fernandez concedes that Barrera has shown marked improvement during his last fight versus Paulie Ayala on June 19 in Carson City, California.
Barrera impressively beat Ayala in ten rounds to position himself back in the featherweight derby.
“Pinag-aaralan na niyang umikot at madalas na din gumamit ng uppercut. Ibang-iba yung kilos nya ngayon kumpara noong laban nila noon ni Manny” admitted Fernandez while viewing the Barrera-Ayala setto.
Fernandez also said he received a call from Pacquiao himself two days ago, asking him to be ready for their September 8 trip to Los Angeles where they will begin their training at the Wild Card Gym of American trainer Freddie Roach.
“Nagulat nga ako maaga tumawag ngayon. Desidido siya dito sa laban niya” added Fernandez.
For his part, Pacquiao himself admitted that Barrera is a more dangerous foe compared to world featherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez.
Though he expects Barrera to be more cautious this time, he still believes this rematch will be more thrilling, acknowledging that the Mexican is a skilled brawler.
“Mas mahirap talagang kalaban si Barrera kaysa Marquez. Mas madami kasing suntok at madiskarte si Barrera.” Pacquiao told Bulletin/Tempo.
The 26-year-old Pacquiao scored a sensational 11th round stoppage over a highly-favored Barrera in November 2003 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, boosting the stock of the Filipino lefty to unprecedented heights.
Meanwhile, Pacquiao?s younger brother, RP Superfeatherweight champion Bobby Pacquiao along with Cebuano superflyweight prospect Z Gorres will join the September 8 trip also to train at the Wild Card.
