Freddie Roach: Ryan Garcia Not An Easy Fight, Might Be ‘A Good Time To Catch’ Manny Pacquaio

Freddie Roach believes Ryan Garcia is not an easy fight whatsoever for Manny Pacquiao.

Following his impressive come-from-behind TKO win over Luke Campbell to become the WBC interim lightweight champion last month, Garcia declared he would be facing Pacquiao next.

Although nothing is official yet, talks have been reportedly ongoing. And if a fight is eventually made, Roach believes the WBA welterweight champion has to be cautious of the hard-hitting, undefeated 22-year-old.

He even believes given his pupil’s age and inactivity, it might be the best time for Garcia to face the legendary boxer.

“The Garcia fight. I really like that fight,” Roach told Fight Hub TV (via GMA Network). “I think he’s a good fighter, he’s got a very good left hook, he can punch a little bit, you’ve got to be really careful with him, and that’s the key for Manny.

“Manny has to be careful with him a little bit and be smart. To beat this guy, you have to do not just ordinary things. [Garcia] is a very good fighter. Manny is 42 now, it might be a good time to catch him. Manny hasn’t been active either.”

Pacquiao is expected to hang his gloves in the near future and transition to politics full-time.

But when it comes to a Garcia fight, Roach believes Pacquiao has to give his full attention and focus, even questioning whether he could still fight like he used to.

“He’s got a terrific left hook, and he puts people right on their ass with it,” Roach added. “He’s not an easy fight for anybody, not even Manny, and where is Manny right now? He is so into politics in his country, can he still fight like he used to?” 

Pacquiao last competed in July 2019 where he outpointed Keith Thurman to win the WBA welterweight title.

Who do you think wins?