Manny Pacquiao’s Trainer: Keith Thurman Is Better Than Errol Spence Jr.

Manny Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, believes Keith Thurman was a tougher test than what Errol Spence Jr. will be.

Pacquiao is set to challenge Spence for the WBC and IBF Welterweight Titles. The Ring Welterweight Title is vacated and will also be at stake. The title clash will take place inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on Aug. 21.

Ahead of the big showdown, Roach spoke to Brian Campbell of Morning Kombat. During the interview, the renowned boxing trainer expressed his belief that Thurman, who Pacquiao defeated back in July 2019, is the overall better boxer over Spence (via Boxing News 24).

“I think Thurman is better than Spence. I watched tape on both guys [Thurman and Spence], and I studied them. I know both guys really well, and overall, I can see that he’s a better fighter.”

As far as advice goes, Roach said he has kept it short and sweet for Pacquiao.

“I told Manny, ‘Go put this guy [Spence] on his a** in the first round, and the momentum will head your way.”

Spence is undefeated in his pro boxing career thus far. His record stands at 27-0. He’s beaten the likes of Shawn Porter, Mikey Garcia, Kell Brook, and Danny Garcia to name a few.

Pacquiao is a future boxing Hall of Famer. He has shared the ring with a slew of boxing legends. Pacquiao has gone one-on-one with the likes of Floyd Mayweather, Juan Manuel Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Shane Mosley, Oscar De La Hoya, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, and many more.

Errol Spence Jr. last competed back in December 2020. He successfully defended his WBC and IBF gold against Danny Garcia. As for Pacquiao, his last fight took place back in July 2019 when he won the WBA Welterweight Title. He was designated to WBA “Champion in Recess” due to inactivity.