Manny Pacquiao is a terrifying fighter, according to one of his biggest rivals.
On July 19, the Filipino will challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.
With a win, Pacquiao could secure a rematch with Floyd Mayweather. But even if he were to lose, the eight-weight world champion has already cemented his legacy beyond doubt.
A now-retired boxer has opened up on how intimidating a prospect it is to face the all-time great.
WOW: ‘I think Mario Barrios sucks’… Manny Pacquiao can win according to ex-world champion
Tim Bradley admits it’s terrifying to box Manny Pacquiao
Tim Bradley has set foot inside the squared circle with Manny Pacquiao on three separate occasions, controversially winning once and losing twice.
Ahead of their first bout, in which he emerged the victor, the American was understandably frightened of the prospect of trading punches with one of the most dangerous competitors the sport has ever produced.
In an article written for ESPN, Bradley said: “Beyond the magnitude of the event, I found myself face to face with a charismatic and humble man whose soft-spoken voice and respectful demeanor draped over him like an invisible veil, contrasting to what stood across the ring from me on fight night.
“The ring announcements felt shorter than in any other championship fight I’d had.
“My legs trembled uncontrollably as I bounced up and down to wake them. When I stopped bouncing, my legs would feel numb, as if they had been removed. Standing across from Pacquiao before the first bell rang, I could feel the weight of his presence. His aura was heavy, almost weakening me.”
Manny Pacquiao will beat Mario Barrios, according to world champion
Ahead of the fight at the weekend, Pacquiao has been training alongside a world champion.
During their sessions, the heavy hitter has been impressed by what he’s seen from the 46-year-old.
Interestingly, this boxing star says Pacquiao beats Barrios.