Manny Pacquiao to Spar With Kendall Holt, Steve Forbes; Miguel Cotto Could Be Wildcard Sparring Partner
Former eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao will reportedly face former junior welterweight contender Kendall Holt as his sparring partner when his training camp resumes the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles around March.
Pacquiao, who is scheduled to take on Timothy Bradley in a rematch of their WBO Welterweight showdown on April 12 at MGM Grand Garden, will be put into a tough test as he faces the man that floored Bradley twice in their match five years ago. Holt, who previously held the IBF Junior Welterweight Championship, was tapped by Pacman's Canadian adviser Michael Koncz. He will join another accomplished fighter in former IBF Junior Lightweight title holder Steve Forbes in the roster of highly-touted sparring mates who would surely test the mettle of the 35-year-old Pacquiao.
"Pacquiao (53-5-2, 38 knockouts) will be employing the services of former IBF junior lightweight champion Steve Forbes and former WBO junior welterweight champion Kendall Holt as sparring partners this training camp," Pacquiao's trainer Freddie Roach told Rappler.
Rigorous Training Starts Next Week
Roach is currently working out with China's Zou Shiming in his upcoming clash with Thailand's Yokthong Kokietgym on Saturday night at the Venetian Resort in Macau, China. After the bout, Roach said he's scheduled to travel to General Santos City on Sunday and begin training with the Pacman on Monday.
"Roach, who is in Macau preparing flyweight prospect Zou Shiming of Guizhou, China for his fight with Thailand's Yokthong Kokietgym on Saturday night at the Venetian Resort, says he will head to Manila to meet with Pacquiao on Sunday, before starting on Monday together," Rappler reported.
Miguel Cotto, who is scheduled to face Sergio Martinez in June, could become another sparring mate for Pacquiao when he shifts his training at the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles, California. Cotto previously expressed his willingness to help his good friend prepare for his upcoming bout with both boxers fighting under the tutelage of Roach.