Bradley stresses ring smarts key to beating Pacquiao

INDIO, California – Acknowledging that he is inferior to Manny Pacquiao in terms of speed and power, Timothy Bradley is banking on another department which he claims would enable him to overcome the Filipino icon in their rubber match next week.

Bradley said when the bell rings on April 9 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas (April 10 Manila time), he would try to neutralize Pacquiao’s advantages by employing his boxing skills.

He believes it’s his best shot at proving he can beat Pacquiao decisively.

“I got to be smarter than Manny Pacquiao on that night,” he told reporters Friday after an open workout at a gym in this city. “That's how I'm going to get the victory.”

For about an hour, Bradley demonstrated his counter-punching and lateral movement before a modest crowd that included international media and fans. His trainer, the renowned Teddy Atlas, kept reminding him of the dos and don’ts on fight night.

“Sometimes the best punches are the ones you don’t throw,” Atlas told Bradley, pointing out how he tends to delay blows.

The 32-year-old Bradley isn’t known for his punching power, as evidenced by having only 13 knockouts in his 33 wins. He is, however, noted for his ability to box and use the ring effectively.

Those assets, according to him, are enough to lead him to victory.

“I'm not talking about strength. I’m not talking about punching power. Because all of that stuff can be eluded with boxing skills and ability and knowing what's coming before it comes,” Bradley explained.

As part of the workout, Bradley and Atlas showcased the boxer’s counter-punching, some of which came in the form of quick flurries at close quarters in case the fight turns into a phone booth affair.

It wasn’t perfect, as Atlas would have remarks from time to time. But Bradley, the determined student, always had an open ear.   

“I have to limit my mistakes,” he said.