- Freddie Roach was hurt knowing that he will no longer be coaching Manny
- Manny’s new head coach for his upcoming fight is Restituto ‘Buboy’ Fernandez
- Manny explained that Freddie Roach is a family, and he is not closing his doors on him
During the press conference for ‘Pacquiao vs Matthysse’ held on April 18, he announced that he will no longer be training under Freddie Roach. His friend Restituto ‘Buboy’ Fernandez will be his head coach instead.
Freddie Roach has been in Pacman’s side since he started as a newbie until he became a professional and a globally-renowned champion boxer. Roach shared his sentiment regarding Manny’s decision and admitted that their 15-year partnership had come to an end.
“I would be lying if I didn’t say I wasn’t hurt that he didn’t contact me personally about his decision, but the great times we enjoyed together far outweigh that,” the former coach said.
During the press conference, Manny did not escape the question about Freddie Roach. He answered it professionally and cleared out the issue saying, “Freddie and I have good relations. We’re like family.”
The senator said that he is only giving ‘Buboy’ a chance to prove that he is a reliable boxing coach.
“I’m not closing the doors to Freddie. But for now, I’d like to train with Buboy,” he added.
Manny has high hopes that his friend will do well in this fight. He is willing to risk the world welterweight championship just to show his trust in Buboy.
On the other hand, Matthysse’s coach, Mario Arano, also expressed his side stating, “This is Lucas’s time. Manny Pacquiao’s time is done.”
Manny, in response to his challenger’s coach, “I’m not yet done. That’s what I’m trying to prove.”
Watch the World Welterweight Championship Fight on July 15 at Axiana Arena, Kuala Lumpur.
