Roach back as Pacquiao-Rios fight draws closer

MANILA, Philippines - Legendary trainer Freddie Roach (left) has returned to the Philippines to review how much Manny Pacquiao (photo) (54-5-2; 38KO’s) has improved during his training sessions over the past month.

Roach’s return comes at a perfect time, considering that Justin Fortune, who was supposed to help Pacman get ready for his upcoming fight against Brandon Rios (31-1-1; 23KO’s), has yet to aid Pacquiao in his training due to visa troubles that are keeping him out of the country.

Pacman and Rios are scheduled to go head to head on Nov. 24 at The Venetian Macao resort and hotel in Macau.

Over the past four weeks, Manny has gone through a variety of training exercises such as shadow boxing, heavy bags, speed balls, skipping ropes and long-distance running workouts.

Pacquiao has also been partaking in 12-round mitts with Nonoy Neri, Roger Fernandez and Jonathan Penalosa, and is expected to spar with Liam Vaughan, who arrived in the Philippines a few days ago along with Roach.

Catch the matchup between Manny and Brandon via satellite on Solar Sports.