Manny Pacquiao on Freddie Roach: No final decision yet

MANILA, Philippines — Manny Pacquiao has finally broken his silence on the status of his relationship with long-time trainer Freddie Roach.

It’s been all over the news the past couple of weeks that Pacquiao had cut his ties with his American trainer for the past 17 years.

A lot of things have been written and said, including a statement from Roach that he was “hurt” by Pacquiao’s decision.

Yesterday, the Filipino champion tried to clear the air.

“Contrary to statements which I personally did not make that are circulating in the media, I have not made my final decision who will be my head trainer for my July 14 (US time) fight with (Lucas) Matthysse,” Pacquiao said on social media.

“My advisor Mike Koncz has been in contact with Freddie’s people to keep them informed. I will make a final decision within the week,” added the eight-division world champion.

Koncz had been quoted as stating reasons leading up to the supposed breakup between Pacquiao and the 56-year-old Roach, including statements the latter said before and after the Jeff Horn fight last July.

Buboy Fernandez, who has assisted Roach in Pacquiao’s corner the past 30 fights or so, was said to be assuming the role of chief trainer for the Matthysse fight in Kuala Lumpur.

Roach said he was “hurt” as well that while news about the split circulated, Pacquiao did not even contact him.

Pacquiao, it turns out, has yet to make a decision, and whatever’s been printed goes down the drain.

“When the decision is made, Freddie will be the first one to be informed and then I will advise the media,” said Pacquiao.

The 39-year-old senator will leavue for Kuala Lumpur on Thursday to drum up his coming fight with the WBA welterweight champ from Argentina.

A formal press conference will first take place at the City of Dreams in Manila tomorrow to be graced by Matthysse and his promoter, Oscar dela Hoya and Eric Gomez of Golden Boy.