Boxing: Manny Pacquiao leaves coach Freddie Roach after 16 years

Manny Pacquiao has split up with his long-time coach Freddie Roach. The reason for this was probably discrepancies between the two.

Three months before his welterweight World Cup fight against the Argentinean Lucas Matthysse, Pacquiao announced the end of 16 years of cooperation in a press release.

According to Michael Koncz, Pacquiao’s long-standing advisor, the reason for the change of coach was disagreements with Roach: “Manny had some reservations after the last fight because of some statements Freddie made to the media.

Pacquiao Restituto Fernandez and Raides Neri came to his side as coaches for the World Cup fight in July.

“Manny and I had a good time, 16 years, longer than some marriages. This is certainly a rarity in the boxing world. I wouldn’t trade anything for it,” Roach told ESPN. However, the 58-year-old was disappointed with his ex-pretty: “I would have to lie if I said that it didn’t hurt that he didn’t call me personally”.

Pacquiao fought 68 fights with Roach in his corner. 59 won the Philippine, 38 of them by knockout. After a year break, the 39-year-old returns to the ring on July 14 when he challenges World Weight Champion Matthysse.