Countdown begins for Pacman-Matthysse

MANILA, Philippines — With his familiar one-liners, Manny Pacquiao pointed out that all’s well in his preparations for the July 15 clash with Lucas Matthysse in Kuala Lumpur.

“Isang buwan na lang (One month to go),” said Pacquiao, back in General Santos City training for his anticipated ring return against the Argentine champ.

Pacquiao took a private plane to and from Manila to grace the opening of a national basketball tournament bearing his famous initials (MPBL) last Tuesday.

He was scheduled to spar 10 rounds yesterday against three boxers. Once sparring reaches the count of 12, it’s time to taper down.

“Grabe ang training namin (Our training is intense),” Pacquiao told reporters.

Roadwork is on high gear in General Santos City, as the 39-year-old fighter, who’s coming off a one-year layoff, worked on his endurance.

“Okay lang,” he said.

One of his aides said the fighting senator has found a new route for his morning run, consisting of uphill stretches that can make an ordinary person faint.

“Mahirap (It’s tough),” he said.

Buboy Fernandez, who has worked under the shadows of Freddie Roach for nearly 18 years, is now in charge of training.

It’s been quite a challenge for Fernandez – day in, day out. 

“Hirap siya (He’s finding it hard),” said Pacquiao.