Mosley has to hurt Pacquiao early to win, boxing experts say

‘Sugar’ Shane Mosley comes from very dismal performances last year, a lopsided decision against Floyd Mayweather and a draw against the non-engaging Sergio Mora. But while many are ready to dismiss Mosley in his upcoming welterweight championship bout against boxing’s top dog Manny Pacquiao on May 7th, several boxing experts are still not willing to totally take the American out of the contest.

Mosley. Can. Still. Punch.

And in the sport of boxing, one punch can really change everything. Who could forget George Foreman’s one-punch shotgun that knocked Michael Moorer out silly? Or that vicious comeback Chico Corrales made after being dropped by Jose Luis Castillo twice in the 10th round of their epic first clash?

Mosley still has the puncher’s chance in this fight. But can a puncher’s chance be enough to get him the victory over Pacquiao? Read on as boxing experts chipped in their thoughts:

“Mosley’s best chance is to come out strong while he’s fresh. It should be an exciting fight for about 3 or 4 rounds. After that, I think it will become uncompetitive as Manny starts to dominate. I think Mosley will come out and try to knock Pacquiao out early, and I’m sure that Pacquiao will be prepared.

I admire Mosley, but to be honest, he isn’t what he used to be. I think Pacquiao could be the first to stop Mosley.”

Vince Parra, boxing manager, trainer, and Rogue Boxing Promotions Vice-President

“I feel Shane is most dangerous early. But to me Manny is just too sharp and will have a small edge in speed. Also, Shane has trouble with southpaws. I’m going to say Manny could be the first guy to stop him, and that would be huge! Pac wins TKO 11th!”

Ken Smith, American Boxing Academy founder and boxing manager

“I think it’s going to be tougher than most people think. Mosley is still a dangerous puncher. He has a small chance and either way, it will not be easy for both fighters. Mosley will have to hurt Pacquiao to have any chance at all. The only way I could see Mosley winning is hurting Pac early and then he could possibly make the distance.

But I will never bet against Pacquiao. Mosley is old and past his prime. Pacquiao is very likely to stop Mosley. I see Pac breaking down Mosley in the middle rounds and finish him late.”

Source: filipinoboxingjournal.com