Pacquiao in better shape than expected, says sparring partner

Manny Pacquiao “is in better shape” than American sparring partner Haskell Rhodes thought, as the Filipino ring icon ramps up his preparation for his April rematch against Timothy Bradley Jr..

The two went through four rounds of sparring on Tuesday in General Santos City, with Rhodes coming away impressed, according to a report by GMA News’ Mav Gonzales.

“It was good. Manny is in better shape than I thought he’d be. It was a good surprise," said Rhodes. "We have a little bit of a gameplan. We’re making some more adjustments. We’re doing very well.”

Rhodes was brought in to replicate a lot of what Bradley does. “Just like Bradley, I have the same build and height. But I say I’m faster. We both have good movement. I do a lot of things similar to Bradley,” he added.

The 26-year-old boasts of a perfect 19-0 record so far, though he hasn’t fought any big names yet.

Pacquiao lost a controversial bout to Bradley Jr. back in 2012 via split decision. Their rematch is set for April 12 (April 13, PHL time) at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Source: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/350147/sports/boxing/pacquiao-in-better-shape-than-expected-says-sparring-partner