LAS VEGAS ? Timothy Bradley sees Manny Pacquiao winning a decision over Jessie Vargas at the Thomas & Mack Arena on Saturday (Sunday in Manila).
He said the fight will go to the scorecards, and not end in a knockout win as Pacquiao and his fans prefer.
The reason, according to Bradley, has more to do with Vargas than Pacquiao himself.
?Vargas is tough, I think he goes 12 [rounds],? Bradley told reporters at the media center of the Pacquiao-Vargas promotion at Wynn Las Vegas.
?I think he knows enough. I think he’s experienced enough. If needed to survive, he can survive,? added the American boxer.
Bradley owns the distinction of having fought Pacquiao and Vargas before, making him best qualified to share insight on the fight. In fact, the former champion will work on the fight?s broadcast panel as an analyst. Sportshub ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1
He had gone 36 rounds against Pacquiao, losing twice to trail their trilogy. In 2015, Vargas almost had Bradley out of his feet in the 12th round of their fight, but came up short.
When Vargas got the fight of his life against Pacquiao, many observers raised eyebrows, saying the Las Vegas-based fighter does not deserve it. Bradley isn?t one of those.
?Jessie Vargas is the champion, he has to be respected,? he continued.
?We know what Manny Pacquiao can do, but we got to give this kid a shot,? said Bradley.
The Palm Springs, California-based Bradley went on to point out how Vargas has never been knocked down ever, and singled out the champion?s overhand right as his key weapon.
?He has a secret, a little trick up his sleeve: the overhand right. I don’t know how the hell he landed it, but landed it on me, he landed it on Sadam Ali, and if he can land that shot against Manny Pacquiao… What do you think knocked out Manny Pacquiao?? said Bradley.
Nevertheless, after arguing Vargas? case for a huge part of his talk with reporters, Bradley ultimately conceded that Pacquiao is still the better man.
?Pacquiao just has to himself in this fight. Pacquiao hits harder. Pacquiao can sting,? he said.
?The pick is Pacquiao.?
