Algieri vows to showcase speed vs Pacquiao

MANILA, Philippines – WBO light welterweight champion Chris Algieri is known more for his boxing ability than his speed.

But when he steps on the ring against Manny Pacquiao on Nov. 23 in Macau, Algieri says he’ll be raising some eyebrows.

Speaking to David Greisman of boxingscene.com, the undefeated New Yorker cited Pacquiao’s speed to be the Filipino’s main weapon – something Algieri claims he can match.

“I think they're gonna be surprised at how fast I am,” said Algieri, a self-proclaimed “master boxer.”

Algieri shot to fame after upsetting Ruslan Provodnikov to win the title, overcoming two knockdowns in the first round. Nevertheless, he’ll be entering the Pacquiao fight as a heavy underdog.

Algieri knows that and is aware of Pacquiao’s strengths.

“Manny has great footwork. He'll be moving in and out... Speed is obviously a difference. He's not going to be as physically strong as Ruslan. His pressure (game) would be completely different,” he explained.

And his game plan?

“I just need to box. When I box, I'll beat anybody in the world. That's really the game plan, I just need to stick to the game plan and be a master boxer,” Algieri continued.

Pacquiao and Algieri will meet at a catch weight of 144 pounds, and their fight will be staged at the Cotai Arena of the Venetian Resort.

Asked how he’ll match up with Pacquiao, Algieri brimmed with confidence, noting he has faced fast fighters before in his kickboxing career.

“With Manny, you know what you're getting. We just gotta be as much prepared for this as possible. My team is doing their homework and will figure it out. And I'll be ready to execute,” he added.