MANILA, Philippines - Antonio Tarver, the former world light-heavyweight champion, has the potential super fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao all figured out.
Now 46 and seeking a shot at the heavyweight title, Tarver graced the On the Ropes radio program and talked about the fight everybody wants to see.
Tarver has the script in his hands.
“I can see Pacquiao hurting Floyd and Floyd fighting back and taking over the fight and winning the decision but it’s going to be an exciting fight. I can’t wait,” he said at the latter part of the interview.
Tarver, who won and lost his title a number of times over the past decade, said it’s actually a tough call but said, “It’s hard to go against Mayweather.”
If and when the fight happens, what’s certain is that both boxers will be in their best fighting form, regardless of their age, and that it will be worth watching.
“I just know it’s going to be a hell of a fight whenever they do fight,” he said.
Mayweather is a great boxer who hasn’t tasted defeat. He is undefeated in 47 fights. But against Pacquiao, there’s no guarantee he’d stay that way.
Pacquiao is perhaps the most explosive fighter of his era – win or lose.
“Pacquiao is going to be pressing, coming from different angles, giving Mayweather movement. Mayweather’s going to be sharp on his defense, throwing those pot shot accurate punches, working off of that beautiful jab to the stomach and to the head,” said Tarver.
The former World Amateur champion sees Pacquiao landing some very good shots and Mayweather getting hurt. But he said Mayweather also has the heart and can fight back even when hurt.