No KOs since 2009, but the ‘old’ Manny is back

HE’S 38 years old and some observers, including Jeff Horn, say he has lost his aura, but Manny Pacquiao says he has been happy with his preparation for the Battle of Brisbane tomorrow at Suncorp Stadium.

Early in his storied career, Pacquiao was known for his knockouts. He had 38 from his first 47 professional fights.

But since he defeated Miguel Cotto in 2009 in a 12th-round stoppage, Pacquiao has had none.

Since then he has had nine decision victories and three losses, including being knocked out cold by Juan Manuel Marquez in 2012.

His trainer, Freddie Roach, also suggested this week that Pacquiao might have lost his killer instinct during that time.

Roach did add, however, through the second half of his training for the Horn fight that he was “getting the old Manny back”.

Pacquiao has been happy with how his training has gone for the WBO world welterweight clash with Horn, which is expected to bring in a crowd of about 60,000 – the biggest in Australian boxing history.

“We have had a good training camp for this fight,” Pacquiao, an 11-time world champion over eight weight divisions, said.

“My team is happy and we are excited for Sunday.

“I am happy, I know my body and I am ready.”

Pacquiao said he knew just how Horn was feeling going into the fight as a young upand-coming boxer as he had been there before.

He also said he was not worried about the outcome.

“I know what it’s like to be the underdog,” Pacquiao said.

“There is no pressure on me. This is my job, I love to fight, so I am happy with every fight I have and I am ready for this one.”