I dunno mate, I'm of the opinion that a guy is in his prime until there is actual evidence that he's declined, just having suspicions don't really cut it for me. I think Floyd's feet are slower now as well, but until he gets dragged into a dogfight which provides clear, unambiguous signs that he has noticeably slipped, I view him as the same fighter now as he was when he first moved to welterweight 5-6 years ago. In fact, he may even be better now, as I think he looks like a stronger, more muscled, bulkier fighter since his lay-off, which has and will help him at 147 as he was maybe a little bit lightweight for a welter back around '06.
I said that because you're one of the (few, thank God) guys out here who absolutely have that capability. I'm working out an opening featuring Lionel Rose (RIP)-Fighting Harada -with Rose being the example of a stylistic foil and Harada the beast from the east. It should be fun. Working title: "Unplugging Pacman"
Looking forward to it...Always enjoy a good tactical analysis and style breakdown. This should be very good! Addendum: Don't give away Freddie's secrets too much...or JG just might show up at your door and take away your keyboard (if only for a little while...
Shhhhh! Don't tell the Godfather! Freddie grew up only a few miles from where I did. I actually put this off for years because I'm a fan of Manny. I'm not a fan of Floyd, which is why "The Blueprint" was done. But then you figure, boxing is really violent chess and part of the thrill of it is coming up with answers. Freddie is doing it but not a whole helluva alotta other trainers aren't bothering even at the top levels. And it shows.
JG told me in a conversation, the term 'glorified cheerleader' comes to mind...What I admire most about Freddie (besides his boxing IQ) is the guy is so brutally honest...Honestly with this piece you have your work cut out for you. If there is a guy for it it is you, but Pacquiao is a real puzzle. The speed, unorthadoxy, ability to throw real power from any angle, the southpaw thing, stamina...you can go down the line. No one can even emulate him for a sparring session. Roach has taken all that and built on it, adding on to those strengths.