Rios says he’s ready for Pacquiao

By Steve Angeles, ABS-CBN North America Bureau

Nov. 1, 2013

OXNARD, Calif. – Brandon Rios is all business…as he gets ready for his fight against Manny Pacquiao.
“I feel good. I’m ready. I really feel strong. My weight is coming on perfect. I’m in the greatest shape of my life so I’m ready,” he said.

The Mexican-American fighter put on a media workout at the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy in Oxnard, California on Thursday, showing the press that he has what it takes to beat the Filipino boxing champ on November 23 in Macau, China.

“We are training to beat the best. Brandon is going for the knockout,” Robert Garcia, Rios’ trainer, said.

The 27-year old, who has a 31-win-1-loss and 1 draw record is known for his aggressive style. He will face a smaller but believed to be quicker 34-year old Pacquiao, who has a 54-5-2 record.

After two straight losses, some experts believe a loss to Rios can seal Pacman’s retirement…however Rios said retiring the Pacman’s is not on his mind, he’s simply out to win the biggest fight of his career.

“If he retires after me, that’s up to him. But my goal right now is to go out there and win,” he added.

Helping Rios stay in shape is former Team Pacquiao strength and conditioning coach, Alex Ariza, who said he holds no grudges against Pacquiao’s camp that fired him earlier this year.

“I have a new client now. My dedication and responsibility is to Brandon and everything else in the past is the past,” Ariza said.
You may contact Steve Angeles at steve_angeles@abs-cbn.com for more information.