Viloria picks Manny but says Bradley dangerous

MANILA, Philippines - WBO flyweight champion Brian Viloria predicts Manny Pacquiao will beat Timothy Bradley when they battle in Las Vegas on June 9 but cautions the defending WBO welterweight titlist to be wary of the “Desert Storm” whom he calls a dangerous opponent because the unbeaten challenger has nothing to lose and everything to gain.

 “Manny’s too fast, too much for Bradley,” said Viloria recently.  “From what I know, Manny’s training is right on track.  But I heard that Bradley’s in great shape, too.  And he’s hungry.  He’s eager to gain recognition.  Manny needs a decisive and spectacular win to put him back at the No. 1 pound-for-pound spot after his not so convincing win over (Juan Manuel) Marquez.”

Viloria said if Pacquiao fought Floyd Mayweather Jr. instead of Miguel Cotto recently, there’s no doubt in his mind as to who would’ve won.  “If Mayweather fought the way he did against Cotto, Manny would’ve won by decision,” said Viloria.  “Cotto gave a great fight although it didn’t show in the scorecards.  I thought it was a lot closer than how the judges scored it. Cotto pushed Mayweather hard.  But give credit where it’s due.  Mayweather’s hard to hit.  His defense is tough and he uses those shoulder rolls very well. Mayweather could frustrate Manny if he gets on his bike and doesn’t engage.  If ever they fight, Manny’s got to be in perfect shape, not 50 percent but 100 percent.  He’s got to be the premier Manny.  Mayweather’s an elusive target.  So Manny has to be very aggressive and focused.  If Manny fights his fight, he beats Mayweather on points.  I don’t think he can knock Mayweather out because he’s too slippery.”

Although Viloria said he’s looking forward to an inevitable showdown between Pacquiao and Mayweather like any boxing fan, the Filipino ring icon can’t afford to look past Bradley.  “The most dangerous opponent is the guy who has nothing to lose and everything to gain,” said Viloria.  “That’s why Manny’s got to be careful.  Bradley can box and he can brawl.  Manny must be prepared for whatever Bradley brings to the table.”

Viloria said he doesn’t foresee moving up in weight until two or three years from now.  “I’m good where I am,” he said.  “I’m perfect at 112 pounds.  I’m feeling young at this stage of my career.  Maybe in two or three years, I’ll move up to 115 (superflyweight) or 118 (bantamweight).  There have been a lot of little guys who’ve made an impact in world boxing.  Those who come to mind are Chiquita Gonzalez, Michael Carbajal and Ricardo Lopez.  I’d like to see more little guys fight on HBO or Showtime.  I don’t think we’re given a chance to show what we can do.”

Viloria said fans are missing out on exciting fights because the cable networks prefer action from 140 pounds up.  “Take my fight against (Giovani) Segura,” he said. “That belonged on HBO or Showtime for sure.  Fighters in the lighter weight divisions are capable of giving the fans a lot of excitement. I’m not tooting my own horn but it is what it is.  It’ll be hard to ignore us little guys if we’re on HBO or Showtime.  I think we’re capable of delivering great fights, too.”