ARGENTINA’S Lucas Matthysse speaks from his press conference in the Philippines ahead of his fight against Filipino icon Manny Pacquiaoย on July 15 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
“Iโm excited and happy for the opportunity to fight Manny Pacquiao. Itโs an honour. But itโs also a risk because itโs the first defence of my title. More than anything though, Iโm excited and honoured.โ
โIโve faced a lot of tough opponents, but not with his [Pacquiaoโs] style. Iโve faced a lot of southpaws including Zab Judah and Devon Alexander, so I donโt have any difficulties facing southpaws.โ
โMy two fists are my strongest assets as a fighter. I always prepare for 12 rounds, but Iโm always hoping to finish the fight by knockout.โ
โFighting a legend like Pacquiao is about pride. I feel great to fight a future Hall of Famer like him. It would be very huge for my career to defeat him.โ
โPacquiao has done a lot throughout his career. Heโs still a great fighter and he must not be underestimated. Weโve defeated Freddie Roachโs fighters before, so it doesnโt make any difference that he will not be in Pacquiaoโs corner for this fight.โ
โIโve seen Pacquiao many times, but I had never met him in person. Today is the first time I met him face-to-face.โ
โMy style is to be aggressive. Obviously, Iโll have a game plan and may need to adjust during the fight, but thatโs my style.โ
โIโve been training in Argentina already. I will start my camp very soon in Indio, Calif. with Joel Diaz.โ